Welcome back to This Week in Memphis! We’re glad you’re here. As we head into the week of October 11–18, 2026, we’ve got some fun stories from Memphis history and exciting events lined up. Let’s dive in.

On This Week in Memphis History

Tigers Upset #13 Ole Miss, 37–24

October 17, 2015

One of the most electric moments in Memphis football unfolded when the Tigers defeated #13-ranked Ole Miss 37–24 at the Liberty Bowl. Tiger fans packed the stadium while a national audience watched the drama unfold.

This win signaled a turning point for the program. Quarterback Paxton Lynch led the charge with composure and skill, supported by a team firing on all cylinders. National media took notice of Memphis as the victory snapped a 15-game ranking drought and lit up city pride.

The achievement remains a signature moment for Tigers fans. It stands as a symbol of competitive spirit and unity, with memories of that Saturday echoing long after the final whistle.

Also this week in Memphis history:

  • 🎂 Mike Conley — Birthday, October 11. Steady Grizzlies floor general; cornerstone of playoff years.
  • A C Wharton Wins Special Mayoral Election — October 15, 2009. A C Wharton became Memphis’s mayor, emphasizing unity after the Herenton era.
  • Political Boss E.H. “Boss” Crump Dies — October 16, 1954. End of an era for Memphis’s political machine and old South influence.

What’s Happening This Week

Check out whats going on in Memphis this week! Whether it’s food, sports, or music – we got you! Here’s your guide to the best happenings in the 901:

Orion Financial Free Concert Series: Shakespeare at the Shell Presents Love’s Labor’s Lost

🎨 Date & Time: October 11, 4:00 PM

📍 Location: Overton Park Shell

Enjoy an evening of classic theater as Tennessee Shakespeare Company brings Love’s Labor’s Lost to the open air. This concert series is free and perfect for fans of live performance and literature.

Learn more

Baptist Health & Wellness Series: Twilight Yoga and Pilates

🎨 Date & Time: October 12, 4:30 PM

📍 Location: Overton Park Shell

Recharge on Monday evening with free, rotating yoga and Pilates classes courtesy of Baptist Memorial Health Care. All levels are welcome.

Learn more

Baptist Health & Wellness Series: Zumba

🎨 Date & Time: October 13, 4:30 PM

📍 Location: Overton Park Shell

Move and groove with a free, fun ZUMBA workout for all ages at the Shell. Bring friends and dance it out.

Learn more

Tree Stewards Class 2026

🎨 Date & Time: October 14, 8:00 AM

📍 Location: Memphis Botanic Garden

Dive into urban forestry with this course covering tree identification, proper care, and selection for a greener Memphis.

Learn more

Baptist Health & Wellness Series: SWEAT

🎨 Date & Time: October 15, 4:30 PM

📍 Location: Overton Park Shell

Take part in pilates, strength and stretch sessions led by The Well. This free wellness event is open to everyone wanting to build strength and flexibility.

Learn more

The Co-Lab Benefitting Music Export Memphis

🎨 Date & Time: October 16, 6:00 PM

📍 Location: Central Station

Experience a night of unique musical collaborations supporting Memphis musicians. Proceeds go to Music Export Memphis to further elevate the city’s music scene.

Learn more

RiverArtsFest

🎨 Date & Time: October 17 & 18, 9:00 AM

📍 Location: Downtown Memphis

Immerse yourself in a juried fine arts festival with over 150 artists, live music, and hands-on art activities. Celebrate the vibrant creativity of Memphis and the Mid-South.

Learn more

Baptist Health & Wellness Series: Breath work and Meditation

🎨 Date & Time: October 17, 3:00 PM

📍 Location: Overton Park Shell

Join a guided session of breathwork and meditation to strengthen your mind, body, and soul in the heart of the park.

Learn more

Thank you for reading and being part of the Memphis story. This newsletter exists because of you.

If there’s an event we missed, or a Memphis history story or birthday you’d like us to highlight, email us at hello@thisismemphis.co. We’d love to hear from you.

See you next week, Memphis!

Follow @this_is_memphis_
Follow on Facebook


Discover more from This is Memphis

Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.

Leave a Reply

Trending

Discover more from This is Memphis

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Continue reading

Discover more from This is Memphis

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Continue reading