For many Memphians, hearing “Taste of Memphis” might conjure images of barbecue smoke and funnel cakes. But while there will be food and fun, the City of Memphis’ upcoming Taste of Memphis isn’t about cuisine — it’s about community.
Set for Thursday, Sept. 11, 2025, from 5 to 8:30 p.m. at Tiger Lane at Liberty Park, the annual event is now in its 11th year. And according to Sherman Robinson, neighborhood redevelopment coordinator for the City’s Division of Housing and Community Development (HCD), it’s about giving residents a reason to reconnect, reimagine and celebrate their neighborhoods.
“My manager used to always say it’s a play on words,” Robinson said in an interview. “When we say Taste of Memphis, it’s about the neighborhoods and neighborhood associations in this great city.”
Indeed, there will be food trucks. But the event will also feature more than 100 participating vendors, not food stalls, but a wide range of neighborhood groups, nonprofits, local organizations and community advocates. Attendees can expect a colorful array of booths showcasing neighborhood pride through historical photos, displays of culture and community-specific swag like T-shirts or banners.
“We try to situate them together in a way where people can connect — Whitehaven to Orange Mound, Orange Mound to Frayser, Frayser to Westwood,” Robinson said. “We want people to connect, engage and just celebrate the greatness of Memphis.”
The event includes a Kid Zone, live music and performances from Memphis favorites including Gerald Richardson, the LeMoyne-Owen College Band and the Memphis Jazz Orchestra. School groups like Rozelle Elementary and the Young Actors Guild will also hit the stage.
This year’s theme, “YES to Community! Strengthening Our Neighborhoods One Block at a Time,” ties directly into Mayor Paul Young’s broader “YES Campaign,” which encourages civic pride and engagement.
“We’ve got a lot of challenges across the city,” Robinson said. “But we want to try to bring some type of sunshine with this event.”
Admission is free to the public, and vendor tables are still available. A $25 vendor fee applies, but restaurants, retail vendors, nonprofits and other organizations are all encouraged to participate. Robinson said the city is aiming for up to 200 total booths, and there’s still room to grow. Interested vendors can call 901-636-7407 or visit MemphisHCD.org to register.
“You never know who you’re going to run into,” Robinson said. “Your next boss, your next business partner. This event helps connect and engage everyone.”
