Mid-South Weekend Guide: Holiday lights, local markets and a chilly forecast

MEMPHIS, Tenn. (WMC) - From glowing lanterns at the Memphis Zoo to holiday markets, live music and hands-on workshops, there’s plenty to explore across the Mid-South this weekend. Just don’t forget a jacket: a blast of colder air will make it feel more like winter than fall.

Your First Alert Weekend Forecast

Saturday starts with temperatures in the 20s and 30s and widespread frost and freeze conditions. Afternoon highs reach only the lower 50s, so plan on layers if you’re heading to an outdoor market or festival. Another frost or freeze is possible Saturday night.

Sunday stays cool, with highs in the mid 50s. Clouds return, and a passing sprinkle is possible late in the day. Looking ahead, temperatures gradually rebound through the following week, reaching the 60s and potentially near 70 by mid-to-late week.

The forecast can change. Check the latest First Alert Forecast before heading out.

All Weekend

Memphis Zoo Lantern Festival

Saturday and Sunday | 5–9:30 p.m. | Memphis Zoo

The Memphis Zoo Lantern Festival returns for opening weekend, transforming the zoo into a colorful nighttime display. Last admission is at 8:30 p.m. Tickets must be purchased online in advance and are $23 for members and $25 for nonmembers; children under 2 are free. Parking is included. Bundle up for an evening outside.

Wolf River Arts Show

Saturday and Sunday | St. George’s Independent School, 1880 Wolf River Boulevard

Explore work by local and regional artists at the Wolf River Arts Show. Saturday includes a designers’ preview from 10 a.m. to noon and a cocktail reception for adults 21 and older from 5–9 p.m. Sunday’s Family Day of Art & Play runs from noon to 4 p.m. Admission is free.

Things to do Saturday, November 1

Garden Discovery Days

10 a.m.–2 p.m. | Memphis Botanic Garden | Free with garden admission

Bring the kids outdoors for drop-in crafts and nature-themed activities. No registration is needed, but the event is canceled if it rains. Regular garden admission is $12 for adults, $10 for seniors 62 and older, and $7 for children ages 2–12; children under 2 are free. Garden programs | Admission details

Pets with Santa and Mrs. Claus

10 a.m.–3 p.m. | Jim Keras Subaru, 2110 Covington Pike | Photos start at $15

Gather the family and your four-legged friends for professional holiday photos. Pets of all breeds and sizes are welcome, and donations benefit Mid-South Pug Rescue. Event details

Cooper-Young Fall Crawl

Saturday | Cooper-Young | Free to attend

Spend the day exploring neighborhood businesses, enjoying local food and live music, and taking part in a scavenger hunt. A passport card encourages visitors to check out participating stops. Published listings differ on the start time, so check the organizer’s event page before heading out.

Collierville Burch Library Holiday Market

10 a.m.–3 p.m. | 501 Poplar View Parkway, Collierville | Free to attend

Get a head start on holiday shopping while browsing gifts and enjoying festive entertainment. The market also offers family-friendly activities, including face painting and a Santa photo booth. Library event page

Fall Festival at Colonial Park UMC

11 a.m.–3 p.m. | 5330 Park Avenue, Memphis | Free admission

Make a family day of it with arts and crafts vendors, food trucks, bounce houses and live music. Check the church’s event page for the latest entertainment lineup.

Cider Fest at Celtic Crossing

11 a.m.–5 p.m. | 903 Cooper Street, Memphis | Free to attend

Make a stop during the Cooper-Young Fall Crawl for ciders, food specials and live music. Admission is free; food and drinks are available for purchase. Event details

Chickasaw Oaks Holiday Market

Noon–4 p.m. | 3092 Poplar Avenue, Memphis | Free admission

Shop for seasonal finds from local makers and enjoy a festive afternoon of music and refreshments. Chickasaw Oaks

Bingo Loco at Minglewood Hall

7 p.m. | 1555 Madison Avenue, Memphis | Tickets listed at $46.40

Bingo gets a high-energy makeover with music, dancing and an interactive stage show. Check the organizer’s ticket page for current availability and fees.

Red Bull Turn It Up

7 p.m. | Satellite Music Hall, 1291 Autumn Avenue | Ages 18+

Live music and DJ competition take over Satellite Music Hall for a night of performances. The weekend listing reports tickets at $19; check AXS for current pricing and availability.

Lyle Lovett and His Small Large Band

8 p.m. | Graceland Soundstage, 3717 Elvis Presley Boulevard | $70–$148.50

Singer-songwriter Lyle Lovett brings his blend of country, swing, jazz, folk and blues to the Graceland stage. Show and ticket information

Things to do Sunday, November 15

Made to Serve: A Metalsmithing Workshop

9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. | Memphis Botanic Garden | $65 members; $75 nonmembers, plus $30 kit fee

Create three functional pieces for the dinner table in this beginner-friendly workshop. Bring lunch or plan to purchase it off-site. Check the registration page for availability and confirm age eligibility before booking.

Autumn Alchemy

2–4 p.m. | Memphis Botanic Garden | $50 members; $60 nonmembers | Ages 21+

Learn to mix three fall-inspired cocktails using seasonal flavors and select garden-grown ingredients. A valid ID is required. Workshop registration

GPAC Youth Symphony Program Fall Concert

4–6 p.m. | Germantown Performing Arts Center, 1801 Exeter Road

Hear young musicians perform in the program’s fall concert at GPAC. Check the event page for ticket information.

Strictly Jazz: The Music of Betty Carter and Elvin Jones

6–8 p.m. | The Green Room at Crosstown Arts, 1350 Concourse Avenue | $25 advance plus fees; $35 at the door

Close out the weekend with a musical tribute featuring Jeremy and Dermel Warren, alongside original music. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Crosstown Arts event details

Event details, prices and availability may change. Check with organizers before making plans. Additional event information: I Love Memphis weekend guide

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