There’s nothing like Christmas in Memphis, TN. From the festive decorations to the family-friendly activities, there’s something for everyone. In this Tennessee Vacation Guide, we’ll give you all the information you need to make the most of your holiday trip.
The holiday season in Memphis is a magical time of year. And with so many great things to do, it’s no wonder that families from all over flock to the city to celebrate Christmas.


Keep on reading if you want to learn about all the different activities at Christmas in Memphis, TN.
So whether you’re looking for a family-friendly Christmas or a more traditional celebration, this guide has everything you need to make your Christmas in Memphis perfect.

What is Memphis Like in December?
In December, Memphis has an average high temperature of 50 degrees Fahrenheit and an average low temperature of 33 degrees Fahrenheit.
The city sees on average 10.7 inches of precipitation during the month making it the second rainiest month of the year.
Christmas Day is typically the city’s coldest day with an average high of 49 degrees Fahrenheit and an average low of 32 degrees Fahrenheit.

But even though it is cold in December, it doesn’t stop people from visiting Memphis and celebrating their holidays in the Birthplace of Rock’ n’ Roll.
Things to do at Christmas in Memphis, TN
Check out these festivities that will have you and your family really get into the spirit of the holiday season!
Starry Nights at Shelby Park
Opens November 24, 2023
Join in the tradition as Starry Nights once again bring Shelby Park to life with over 3.5 million Christmas light! More details and ticketing will soon be posted on their website.
Holiday Lighting Weekend
Graceland begins the holiday season with 3 days of festivities! Be sure not to miss any of it!
November 16, 2023 | 6:00 pm | Graceland Plaza Green, Elvis Presley's Memphis
- Annual Holiday Lighting Ceremony (free admission)
November 17, 2023 | 7:30 pm | Guest House Theater, Guest House at Graceland
- Christmas with the Paiges- Tickets: $20
November 18, 2023 | 7:00 pm | Christmas at Graceland | 9:00 pm | Christmas at Graceland: Home for the Holidays
- Hallmark's Christmas at Graceland Double Feature- Free to attend
The Enchanted Forest Festival of Trees at MoSH Memphis
November 18, 2023, 10:30 am - December 31, 2023, 5:00 pm
Watch with delight as toy trains weave through a village coated in snow, the glistening trees fully decorated by local businesses, people, and designers! Not only that, but you also get have your picture with Santa (packages start at $10) and enjoy holiday movies and planetarium shows.
All proceeds benefit Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital.
Cost:
- Adult: $7
- Seniors: $6
- Children ages 3 -12: $6
Frosty Fest at Carriage Crossing
November 18, 2023, 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Wait for Santa's arrival in this free, family-friendly celebration of the holidays with good food and music. There will be appearances from different holiday characters and more!
Free Santa Photos at Saddle Creek
Get your free photos (yep, you heard that right) with Santa with the whole family including your leashed pets! You'll get a printed copy and a digital one, both for FREE! Here's Santa's schedule, so you're updated!
- Saturday, Dec. 2, 2-8 pm
- Sunday, Dec. 3, 3:30-5:30 pm
- Saturday, Dec. 9, 2 -8 pm
- Friday, Dec. 15, 4-8 pm
- Saturday, Dec. 16, 4-8 pm
- Sunday, Dec. 17, 12:30-5:30 pm
- Friday, Dec. 22, 4-8 pm
- Saturday, Dec. 23, 2-8 pm
Find Santa at Saddle Creek South, two doors down from lululemon.
Holiday Spirits - A Christmas Cocktail Festival
December 1, 2023, 6:30-9:30 pm
Cost: $44
Listen to live music and visit Santa Claus as you take a sip on your 12 sample-sized yuletide cocktails! All proceeds benefit Volunteer Memphis!
Purchase your tickets here.
Join the Memphis Beale Street Christmas Parade
December 9, 2023, 2 pm
Join in the grandest parade in the region! Enjoy a live marching band, steppers, colorful floats, and so much more!
Watch Nutcracker with the Whole Family
December 9-10 & December 15-17 2023
Ballet Memphis’ Nutcracker returns to the Orpheum Theatre! Watch your favorite characters be brought to life with live music by the Memphis Symphony Orchestra for a more amazing experience.
Buy your tickets from Ticketmaster today!
Related Resources
- Pigeon Forge Vacation Guide
- Gatlinburg Vacation Guide
- 125+ Things to Do in the Smoky Mountains
- Great Smoky Mountains Family Vacations Facebook Group
MORE RELATED RESOURCES
The holidays involve a lot of picture-taking. If you’re looking for a good camera to give your loved ones, you might want to check out these photography gift ideas from PhotoJeepers that they are sure to love.
On a budget? We’ve got you covered! Check out these cheap family Christmas vacation ideas so you can plan the vacation of your dreams!