The Ultimate Memphis Holiday Guide 2025

Looking for the best holiday events, light shows, and family activities around Memphis, Collierville, Germantown, Olive Branch, Southaven, Arlington, or Millington this season? You’re in the right place.

Every December, the Mid-South transforms — the lights go up, the events kick off, and families start searching for memorable things to do. To make it easy, here’s your complete guide to the top holiday experiences across the area.

⭐ Best Holiday Light Shows

✨ Starry Nights at Shelby Farms

A Memphis favorite and one of the largest drive-through light displays in the region. Perfect for families, date nights, and anyone looking to get in the holiday spirit.

✨ Collierville Town Square Lights

Hallmark vibes. Beautiful storefronts, seasonal displays, and great spots for shopping and photos.

✨ Graceland Holiday Lights

The King does Christmas right. Explore Elvis’s iconic home decorated with stunning lights and unique holiday décor.

✨ Olive Branch City Park Light Displays

A simple, beautiful, family-friendly spot for a festive stroll.

⭐ Holiday Events & Festivals

🎄 Enchanted Forest Festival of Trees

Hosted at the Museum of Science & History (formerly Pink Palace), this Memphis tradition features decorated trees, gingerbread houses, and Santa photos.

🎄 Zoo Lights at the Memphis Zoo

LED trees, ice skating, hot cocoa, rides, and festive attractions for all ages.

🎄 Collierville Christmas Parade

One of the largest and most loved parades in the area — marching bands, dancers, floats, and more.

🎄 Southaven Christmas Festival

Tree lighting, music, vendors, and plenty of family fun.

⭐ Shop Local This Holiday Season

Support the small businesses that keep Memphis strong.

Some great options include:

• Midtown boutiques

• Cooper-Young shops

• Black-owned businesses across Memphis

• Artisan pop-up markets in Collierville & Germantown

• Southaven & Olive Branch craft fairs

Shopping local = supporting the people that make this community great.

⭐ Top Memphis Holiday Food & Dessert Spots

🍽 Brunch + Comfort Food

• Staks Pancake Kitchen

• Rise & Grind Coffee

• Porch & Parlor (for a more upscale experience)

🍽 Dinner + Date Night Favorites

• Coastal Fish Co.

• Flight Restaurant

• Mesquite Chop House (Southaven)

🍰 Dessert Favorites

• Gibson’s Donuts

• Smallcakes

• Sugar Ghost Ice Cream

Treat yourself — it’s the holidays.

⭐ Family-Friendly Activities Around the Mid-South

• Ice skating at the Mid-South Ice House

• Photos with Santa (Wolfchase + local events)

• Holiday craft workshops

• Festivals hosted by local churches and parks

• Drive-through light displays and neighborhood shows

These are simple, affordable, memory-making activities for all ages.

⭐ Holiday Safety Tips

Keep your season smooth:

• Stick to well-lit areas at night

• Keep shopping bags out of sight

• Use rideshare for downtown events

• Stay aware in crowded areas

• Plan your routes ahead of time

A little planning goes a long way.

⭐ Final Thoughts

The holidays in the Mid-South are special — the lights, the festivals, the food, the community. I hope this guide helps you and your family make the most of the season.

If you ever need help buying or selling, or if you just want to ask questions about the process, you already know I make everything Simple, Strategic & Stress-Free.

Happy holidays, Memphis.
— Keino Spring, The Vincy Realtor®