This weekend in Desoto County, MS

Build practical self-defense and survival skills in a tactical knife fighting course in Southaven, MS. Offered by Kingdom Elite Tactical, this frequently requested training focuses on edged-weapon defense and controlled offensive techniques. Participants learn methods to protect themselves and their families with an edged tool, including strategies useful in places where firearms are not permitted or for those who want added confidence while out running. The class welcomes ages 10 and up and is designed with families in mind. It also qualifies for professional continuing education hours for law enforcement. The cost is $65 per person, with a $30 rate for each additional family member.

The Memphis Silkies Hike marks its tenth year at Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid, with participants gathering outside the Pyramid before heading out together. Attendees are asked to register in advance.

Experience an energizing Pilates session in the open air at Shelby Farms Park, hosted by Club Pilates in Memphis. This free class welcomes every level, offering a full-body workout that refreshes body and mind while enjoying nature and a friendly community. Bring a mat and water, and feel free to come with a friend.

Set on the City Hall front lawn, the Olive Branch Farmers Market offers produce from Genuine MS, baked goods, crafts, and more.

This community event pays tribute to those lost on 9/11 as it marks the 25th anniversary. It recognizes and appreciates first responders. Registration is available, and all contributions from the event will support the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation.

At Snowden Grove Park, the 3rd Annual Lacing Up For Hope 5K & Kids Fun Run brings the community together to support Healing Hearts Child Advocacy Center. The event includes a 5K run or walk and a Kids Fun Run. Participation helps provide trauma-informed therapy, forensic interviews, crisis response, and ongoing support for children and families affected by abuse, ensuring access to dedicated care and advocacy. Step by step, the focus is on hope, healing, and justice for those who need it most.

The Water Tower Festival returns with an expanded celebration of community, featuring more than 150 vendors, live music, Panola Street Eats food trucks, and a Kidz Zone for family-friendly fun throughout the day. Vendor applications are accepted only by email at chamber@hernandoms.org, and spots fill quickly.

This welcoming class supports grandparents with up-to-date guidance on car seats, safe sleep, and overall safety. Led by the Beautiful Beginnings nurses, the session refreshes parenting skills and helps rebuild confidence for caring for little ones today. It takes place in Classroom ABC at the Women’s Hospital. Parking is free. To find the room, enter the Women’s Hospital, go left down the main hallway, pass Admissions, take the first hallway on the right, then enter the second door on the left.

Memphis hosts the first annual Paws & More Paws Dog Expo, a weekend celebration of dogs and the community that supports them. The event brings together pet lovers, rescues, pet service providers, veterinarians, talented dog groomers, and a variety of local food trucks for a lively expo experience. Businesses and organizations can participate as vendors, food trucks, or sponsors, with opportunities to showcase their services and connect with thousands of pet enthusiasts. The expo takes place at the Raleigh Civic Center in Memphis.

An informal get-together at Performance Plus Motorcycle & ATV Specialist, INC with doughnuts, coffee, and friendly conversation. A relaxed setting to connect and chat.

Learn the essentials of breastfeeding in Classroom ABC during an interactive conversation led by nurse experts, with time set aside for questions and answers. To register, contact the Maternity Care Coordinator at Beautiful.Beginnings@bmhcc.org or call 901-227-9873.

This casual Lorcana gathering welcomes Illumineers and does not require an entry fee. Players who check in through the Ravensburger Play Hub receive a random promotional item. Expect a friendly setting to meet fellow fans and play at your own pace.

At Memphis Listening Lab, John Brackett marks the release of his new book, Touch of Grey, or How the Grateful Dead Became Pop Stars. Centered on the single "Touch of Grey," the book draws on extensive archival research to show how one track reshaped the public legacy of one of rock’s most iconic bands. Brackett traces the song’s path from Robert Hunter’s early lyric sketches and the Dead’s first live arrangements to the breakthrough that followed the release of "Touch of Grey" and the album In the Dark in 1987. He explores the recording technologies, notable musical traits, ways of listening, and the workings of the contemporary music industry that converged at this pivotal moment. The narrative looks at how the band and its label built a hit record, an attention-grabbing video, and a coordinated promotional push that helped move the Grateful Dead from a devoted cult following to broad pop culture recognition. Brackett is a music historian and researcher. His previous books include John Zorn: Tradition and Transgression (Indiana University Press, 2008) and Live Dead: The Grateful Dead, Live Recordings, and the Ideology of Liveness (Duke University Press, 2023). He lives in Chapel Hill, North Carolina.

Bring yarn and hooks for a relaxed crochet club gathering. Beginners can learn the basics while experienced crafters share techniques and encouragement. First-time crocheters receive a welcome package with the essentials to start stitching. This friendly meetup suits all skill levels, with time to work on projects, ask questions, and swap tips.

Community members, volunteers, and local leaders came together to launch the New Direction Community Garden, and their shared effort has given it a strong start. Gratitude is extended to everyone who contributed time and energy to bring the garden to life. Support is still welcome, including donations, and a sign-up option remains available for those interested in helping.

Enrollment is open at Children’s Ballet Theater in East Memphis for fall training in ballet, tap, musical theater, jazz, pointework, modern, and contemporary. Classes are available for ages 2.5 through 18, with options for adults as well. Instruction is provided by professional, caring teachers in a welcoming setting. Students also have opportunities to perform in Clara & the Nutcracker and take part in spring recitals.

The 4th Annual Asian Night Market brings a moonlit celebration to Agricenter International, blending tradition with contemporary energy. Drawing inspiration from Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, the experience invites attendees into a world of movement, mystery, and story. Culture meets cuisine at every turn. More than 100 vendors offer authentic Asian street food, distinctive crafts, and cultural experiences, while live performances run throughout the event, featuring KAZHA ROCK BAND. The Mid-Autumn Lantern Parade lights the night, families can enjoy a free Kids Zone, and a crowd favorite eating contest adds to the excitement. Please note that ticket prices do not include the Agricenter parking fee of $10 per vehicle.

Enjoy a relaxed, drop-in session devoted to coloring and creativity. Settle into a calm environment where you can work quietly, share low-key conversation, or try a simple optional mini activity. It offers an easy way to unwind and add a bit of color to your day at your own pace.

Saturday Dungeons & Dragons single session adventures welcome both newcomers and experienced players. If finding a Dungeon Master or a table has been a challenge, games are organized and run for you so there is no need to secure a DM. Sessions are pay-per-play at $8 per person, and first-time participants play free. Bringing a new player grants 10 Renown points. Watch for a weekly post on the store’s main page that highlights upcoming adventures, where commenting can unlock extra perks such as two for one pulls from the D&D Treasure Trove, bonus Renown opportunities, and other rotating surprises. Renown points serve as a custom version of experience. Points are earned for playing, introducing new players, and purchasing D&D supplies. Leveling requires the target level multiplied by 10 points, for example 20 points to reach level 2 and 30 for level 3. When points are spent to level up, the total resets to zero, so early levels advance quickly while higher levels take longer. Each session awards 10 points, there is a 10 point bonus for a first session, and another 10 points for bringing a new player. The D&D Treasure Trove is a vending machine packed with small prizes that include in game bonuses, free drinks, and discounts on physical items.

At War Room Hobbies, the Summoner Skirmish for Riftbound features a 1v1 constructed format with best of three matches. The tournament is run as Swiss rounds with a top cut, and rules are available through Riftbound for reference. Prize support includes 32 participation promos while supplies last, 8 top cut promos, and 1 champion playmat.

Produced by BEMMA Productions, this red carpet gala honors the achievements, influence, and cultural contributions of creatives, entrepreneurs, and community leaders. It brings together visionaries, industry professionals, and emerging leaders for a night focused on honoring achievements, building connections, and celebrating impact. The program features impactful storytelling, live entertainment, and notable awards that spotlight people who shape culture, grow thriving businesses, and strengthen their communities through leadership, creativity, and resilience. It celebrates excellence, pays tribute to lasting legacies, and aims to inspire the next generation of leaders.

Blakgraz returns to Mississippi Ale House and Brew Pub with a high energy, genre crossing show built on more than one hundred original songs, five guitars with names like Tiff, Rosa, Betty, Stella, and Sandy, and a blend that spans rock, blues, country, folk, jazz, pop, rap, and more. Expect sing along moments, dance friendly grooves, surprise giveaways, and interactive fun throughout the night. Led by Tom, the group has reached No. 1 on MP3.com, received national airplay, and performed alongside major touring acts. The catalog includes albums released since 2010 such as Lust and Soveran, along with the 2025 project Rufus, and the song What If I Told You has earned more than 1.8 million online plays. Recent milestones include eight nominations at the 2025 International Music Awards and continued growth on streaming platforms. Admission is free, with food and drinks available at the venue.

Morgan Freeman’s Symphonic Blues Experience takes the stage at The Scheidt Family Performing Arts Center, marking the launch of the new Live at the Scheidt performance series. This unique program unites the heritage of Delta blues with the sweep of a full symphonic ensemble, honoring the music, storytelling, and enduring influence of the blues. Led by Morgan Freeman’s distinctive voice and creative direction, the evening offers a compelling blend of artistry, context, and inspiration.

Project Pat brings The Redemption Tour 2 to his hometown with a live performance at Satellite Music Hall. Presented by Live Nation and Money Train Management, this all-ages show celebrates a Memphis icon returning to perform for local fans. VIP tickets and meet and greet packages are available for those looking to elevate the experience.

This social board gaming gathering is designed for solo players who want to meet fellow tabletop fans and play together. A curated mix of games encourages both friendly competition and cooperative play, making it easy to start conversations and build new connections. Share tips, strategies, and favorite stories as you solve puzzles, plan your moves, and go for bragging rights in friendly challenges. Expect a relaxed, welcoming vibe with drinks and snacks available while you discover new favorites and new friends.

The Orion Financial Free Concert Series brings local, national, and international artists to the historic Overton Park Shell, a stage with a long legacy of renowned performers. This edition features Hattiloo’s 20th celebration with a live concert that channels the vibe of a Saturday night soul revue on a theatre stage, blending gospel-rooted vocals, R&B grooves, Broadway show tunes, and brief theatrical vignettes. The performance highlights the sound, spirit, and storytelling tradition of Black performance in signature Hattiloo style. Hattiloo Theatre is a nonprofit founded in 2006 by Ekundayo Bandele with support from a board chaired by Michael de Caetani. Named for his daughters Hatshepsut (Hatti) and Oluremi (Loo), it began in a small storefront in Memphis’s Edge District. After eight years operating with a three-person staff and presenting eight productions each season, the theatre moved in 2014 to a newly constructed facility following a $4.3 million capital campaign, opened debt free, and established a $500,000 endowment. A 2016 campaign added a new Development Center, and that same year a $1-per-year lease with the City of Memphis enabled the conversion of an 8,000-square-foot head-start school into the Hattiloo Technical Theatre Center. In 2017, HattiHouse opened to host guest artists and interns. As the only freestanding Black repertory theatre across five surrounding states, Hattiloo has cultivated a strong regional audience, provides high-quality free programming throughout the city that reaches thousands each year, and serves as a sought-after resource nationwide. Deck parties are available. Food trucks on site include Odd Smash & Grab, Camelitas Taquería, Soi No. 9, and Mempops. Picnic baskets, coolers, beverages, blankets, and lawn chairs are welcome. Food and drinks are also available for purchase in the Autozone Food and Beverage Concourse. Dogs on a leash are welcome in designated areas. Overton Park Shell is a nonsmoking facility.

Set out on a two-hour Dinner & Music Cruise on the Mississippi River that blends scenic views, live entertainment, and a served meal. Advance reservations are suggested. Celebration package add-ons are available at checkout for birthdays, anniversaries, or any special night. A full bar is on board with alcoholic beverages available for purchase, not included in the ticket price, and both cash and cards are accepted. The menu features Memphis-style pulled pork barbecue, marinated grilled chicken breast, baked beans, mac and cheese, a house salad, buns, dessert, and complimentary tea and water. All Dinner & Music Cruises share the same menu and substitutions are not offered. Meals are served once by staff behind the service area on disposable dinnerware due to COVID-19 restrictions, and items are subject to change based on availability. Parking is not on site, and the nearest lot is across the street with an approximate 8 to 10 minute walk, and it is not affiliated with the event. There is no dress code, and most guests choose casual to semi-formal attire.

This event features Weird Al Yankovic live at the Landers Center in Southaven, Mississippi.

At Hilton Memphis, a multi-room cocktail celebration features eight DJs, live music, and five spaces. Explore the Velvet Room, Silent Room, Lit Lounge, Space Age Lounge, and Cigar Lounge as you move from room to room.

Weird Al Yankovic brings the Bigger & Weirder Tour to Landers Center in Southaven, MS.

Hot Fix Sideshow from Coney Island brings a one-night showcase to Memphis filled with old school circus mischief. Expect daring feats of flesh piercing, glass walking, and belly dancing, along with more. Performing are Alaska Lostboy, Jigsaw Joe, Maggie McMuffin, and Obsidian Absurd. Admission is $20.

Enjoy karaoke at Rockhouse Live Raleigh Lagrange, where attendees can take the mic and sing their favorite songs.

This competitive One Piece trading card game tournament has a $5 entry fee. Prizes feature store credit along with promotional rewards.

Enjoy a daily horseback trail ride through one of the largest urban parks in the United States, a green space more than five times the size of New York’s Central Park. Experienced trail guides lead the route as you take in beautiful scenery and watch for wildlife such as deer, ducks, and cranes. Friendly horses make the outing comfortable for first-time riders and enjoyable for those with experience.

This girls-only pinball tournament features two hours of fast-paced Flipper Frenzy action. The top half of players will advance to the finals, which will run as either group matchplay or an Amazing Race format depending on turnout. Entry is $7, and cash prizes will be awarded to the top three competitors.

Blakgraz brings a high energy night of live music to 10th Inning Sports Bar & Grill in Southaven, Mississippi. Expect more than 112 original songs spanning 11 genres, over three hours of nonstop music, lively singalongs, dance-worthy jams, surprise giveaways, and a set that features five uniquely named guitars, Tiff, Rosa, Betty, Stella, and Sandy. The performance blends original material with fan favorite covers and encourages an interactive crowd experience. Blakgraz is led by Tom, with a track record that includes #1 placements on MP3.com, national airplay, and appearances alongside major touring acts. The group has released multiple albums since 2010, from Lust to Soveran, and is working on the 2025 project Rufus. Their song What If I Told You has surpassed 1.8 million online plays, and the act has received eight nominations for the 2025 International Music Awards. Admission is free, and food and drinks are available on site.

The New Pacemakers return to Neil's Music Room for another appearance.

This friendly group run offers two and four mile routes. The 901 Run Club works to connect Memphis and beyond through community and a shared love of running. Participants of all levels are welcome, including seasoned runners, beginners, and walkers.

An easygoing jazz night unfolds at D’Bo’s Daiquiris Wings & Seafood as The Saxman, Calvin Jerry Smith, sets the tone with smooth saxophone. Guests can savor wings, seafood, and refreshing drinks while the live music turns an ordinary evening into something that feels like the weekend. The setting caters to a grown audience with laid back vibes, and karaoke is available for anyone who wants to take the mic. It is a comfortable spot to wind down after work or share a night out with friends, with real live music at the center of it all.

Back Alley String Band heads back to Huey's in Southaven, now performing as a five piece that features Ethan Baker on violin and Carlos Gonzalez on mandolin and charango. Hailing from North Mississippi and Memphis, the group weaves together Old Time, Bluegrass, Jug Band, Hill Country Blues, Irish traditional music, Jazz, and more, mixing covers with original songs. The core trio includes Andy Ratliff on guitars, banjo, mandolin, and vocals, John Kilgore on guitars, ukulele, and vocals, and John Kveen on upright bass with occasional vocals, joined by Baker and Gonzalez for this lineup. Admission is free, and the venue's award winning burgers are available for purchase.

Lightwire Theater presents an illuminated stage experience that combines technology, dance, and puppetry to tell a touching, all-ages story in the dark. The company, which reached the semifinals on NBC’s America’s Got Talent and received a Jim Henson Foundation grant, brings glowing characters and settings to life with electroluminescent wire. Vivid imagery, nuanced choreography, and a soundtrack that ranges from classical works to pop music come together to reimagine familiar stories with luminous flair.

Memphis Reggae Nights returns to B-Side Memphis with a showcase from Iyah Sypha, an artist originally from Kingston, later a New Yorker, and now rooted in Memphis. The night features reggae sounds and food offerings that include Jamaican jerk chicken and additional sides, with vegan friendly options available. The event is appropriate for families.

Set out on a two-hour Mississippi River cruise that pairs dinner with live entertainment. Advance reservations are encouraged for this evening Memphis experience, and optional celebration add-ons are available at checkout for birthdays, anniversaries, or any special night. A full bar is on board for alcoholic beverages, available for purchase and not included with the ticket, and it accepts both cash and cards. The menu features Memphis-style pulled pork barbecue, marinated grilled chicken breast, baked beans, mac and cheese, a house salad, buns, and dessert, with complimentary tea and water. All Dinner & Music cruises serve the same menu, and substitutions are not available. Meals are served once by staff from behind the service area on disposable dinnerware in line with COVID-19 restrictions, and offerings may change based on availability. Parking is off site, with the nearest option about an 8 to 10 minute walk away, and that lot is not operated by the cruise company. There is no dress code, and most guests choose casual to semi-formal attire.