Memphis has an exciting and festive vibe any time of the year but it more than shines when the holidays come around. The city’s growing economy and renewed popularity with both families and millennials alike have propelled investors and individuals to take advantage of its ample attractions, affordable livability, and excellent infrastructure. You can celebrate the holiday season in Memphis with style at these colorful events and venues.
Holiday Wonders
The Memphis Botanic Garden keeps the spirit of the holidays alive with its winter wonderland experience. Old-growth trees are sparkling with lights while carolers fill the air with joyous song. It’s the perfect backdrop for memorable photographic greetings and the ideal setting for its “Snowy Nights” in the children’s’ play area.
You can head for the family-friendly Under the Stars lounge on the garden grounds for holiday treats, musical light show, and cheery craft projects. Kids will be delighted to play inside the enormous snow globe while the grown-ups can stay warm drinking hot cocoa around the fire pits. There is something for all ages at this central Memphis location and parking is easy and free.
Graceland
No one decks the halls any better than Graceland does at Christmas. The home of Elvis Presley becomes a magical excursion into the holiday spirit rocking the world with music, illumination, and ceremony. You will be mesmerized by the numerous live poinsettia plants surrounding the main staircase and the whimsical attention to detail paid to each festive bauble.
Outside the blue lights along the driveway make way for Santa in his sleigh and the life-size Nativity scene reminds all of the reason for the season. The estate hosts several concerts and shows into January when the Elvis’ birthday four-day bash gets into gear. It is an unforgettable tribute to The King of Rock & Roll and fans could not be happier.
Zoo Lights
The Memphis Zoo becomes a fanciful holiday paradise with live reindeer encounters, a world of lights, and a fabulous outdoor adventure for the whole family. You will feel like you have been transported to the North Pole but without the snow. Unlimited rides on the tram and the zoo’s beautiful carousel are included in the admission price.
The Cat’s House Cafe located next to the farm is always ready with sweet holiday treats and hot chocolate in case you get cold. Santa’s workshop is nearby where the youngsters can get busy making simple crafts and helping Santa. There are singing Christmas trees, camel rides, and an ice skating rink making Zoo Lights one of the grandest holiday destinations.
The Peabody
The Peabody Hotel is a downtown Memphis icon and not to be missed when the celebrations begin. The festivities start with the Peabody Tree Lighting Ceremony, a tradition dating back 35 years and spectacular to see in the lush surroundings. The Grand Lobby stays exquisitely decorated through the season while local choirs serenade visitors and guests.
You will want to check out the Peabody Gingerbread Village where sugary creations tell stories and where about 250 hours of intricate work produces an artful fantasy land. It is Christmas splendor at its finest from the huge lobby tree to the striking garland embellishments. Adults might want to enjoy a creamy concoction at the bar if they can.
Shelby Farms Park
Shelby Farms Park does not disappoint with its annual Starry Nights event. The park is transformed into an eye-popping light show and the community is all the better for it. The drive-through tour consists of over 1.5 million lights and is one of the largest of its kind in the south. Animated images of planets and stars, animals, and classic symbols of Yuletide greet guests along the way.
You can drive your car or opt for a hayride or horse-drawn carriage through the winding and colorful light show. Mistletoe Village is a pleasant stop along the way for a hot drink and a visit with Santa. There are craft workshops and camel rides for the kids while the adults can shop for gifts at the local artists’ market in the village. It’s a great way to welcome the season.
The spirit of Memphis is only one reason to invest in and become part of this vibrant city. Reedy and Company Realtors are ready to be at your service and take care of all your property investment needs. For more information, you can contact us anytime.
