Looking for something the whole crew can enjoy? This weekend, Memphis serves up a downtown parade, an afternoon of music and storytelling, and a candlelit Halloween concert in an art museum. Here's your family-and-culture guide for Saturday, October 24 and Sunday, October 25.
Saturday morning: Día de Muertos Parade & Festival
The Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead) Parade & Festival 2026 takes over downtown on Saturday, October 24 starting at 11:00 AM at Court Square Park. It's presented in partnership with Cazateatro Bilingual Theatre Group and the Orpheum Theatre Group, so expect real theatrical flair along with the color and celebration.
It's a great one for kids. Think bright costumes, music and a parade that gives you a reason to get downtown early on a Saturday. The National Weather Service is calling for sunshine and a high around 77°, so bring sunscreen and comfortable shoes.
Saturday afternoon: Chêne Fest 2026
Keep the day going at Chêne Fest 2026 at Radians Amphitheater, starting at 2:00 PM on Saturday, October 24. Chêne Fest mixes storytelling, music, artistry and conservation. It features performances from country music icons plus an exclusive premiere. An outdoor amphitheater on a sunny October afternoon? Hard to beat.
Sunday night: Candlelight at the Brooks
For something a little spookier and a lot more elegant, Candlelight: A Haunted Evening of Halloween Classics lights up the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art on Sunday, October 25 at 8:45 PM. It's a late start, so it's best for older kids and grown-ups who want a moody, candlelit way to kick off Halloween week.
How to plan the weekend
Saturday: Parade at 11 AM, lunch downtown, then Chêne Fest at 2 PM.
Sunday: Rest up, then candlelight at the Brooks at 8:45 PM.
Showing up for events like these is how a city keeps its traditions and its venues thriving. Bring a friend, take photos and tell people what's on. For the full list, browse all Memphis events on Evvnt.
Image: AI-generated illustration.