September 1st isn’t just another day on the calendar—it’s 901 Day, Memphis’ own holiday of civic pride. The date (9/01) matches our area code, making it the perfect opportunity to honor everything that makes our city soulful, creative, and resilient. From community walks to lantern parades, block parties, and citywide celebrations, there are plenty of ways to show your love for Memphis this year.
Here’s your guide to celebrating 901 Day 2025:
Memphis River Parks: Lantern Parade at Tom Lee Park
As the sun sets, head to the riverfront for a breathtaking community tradition: the Mississippi River Gumption Revival Lantern Parade. At 7:45 p.m., lanterns created by Memphians of all ages will light up the night as the community honors Tom Lee, the brave man who saved 32 lives from the Mississippi River one hundred years ago. It’s a magical way to celebrate 901 Day while reflecting on courage, compassion, and our city’s history.
📍 Tom Lee Park
⏰ 7:45 p.m.
🎟️ Free & Open to the Public
Unite Memphis Walk/Run
Kick off 901 Day with movement and meaning. The 4th annual Unite Memphis Run/Walk brings people together for a 5K or 1-mile event that highlights unity and progress. This year, the event partners with the National Civil Rights Museum, making it more impactful than ever. Whether you run, walk, or cheer from the sidelines, you’ll be a part of something bigger—showing the dream for unity is alive in Memphis.
📍 Location: National Civil Rights Museum
⏰ Time: 9:01 AM
🎟️ Registration: https://unitememphis.raceroster.com/
City of Memphis 901 Day Celebration on Beale Street
Beale Street comes alive on 901 Day with a full-day block party celebrating Memphis culture. From live music and fashion pop-ups to family-friendly fun and local vendors, this is the heart of the holiday. Expect surprise performances, art displays, and dance showcases that highlight the creativity and soul of Memphis. Whether you’re bringing your family, hanging out with friends, or just soaking up the vibes, this is a can’t-miss celebration.
✨ Live music from local favorites & rising stars
👗 Memphis-made fashion pop-ups
🎭 Art displays & interactive exhibits
👨👩👧👦 Family Fun Zone
🪩 Teen Space
🛍️ Local vendors & eats
💃 Dance performances
📍 Beale Street
⏰ 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.
🎟️ Free & Open to the Public
Project 901 Block Party: “We’re Working On It”
Over in the Edge District, the Project 901 Block Party is putting a bold spin on 901 Day. Themed “We’re Working On It,” this event is both a celebration and a statement—acknowledging Memphis’ challenges while uplifting the people, creatives, and businesses building a brighter future. Expect a mix of art, music, and community power that reflects the city’s layered identity and unstoppable spirit.
📍 Edge District
⏰ All Day
🎟️ Free & Open to the Public
![The countdown is ON, Memphis! We’re officially 30 days out from the @unitememphis 5K + 1-Mile Walk/Run—and this year, we’re stepping into unity on 901 Day 🙌🏽
📍 Monday, September 1 | National Civil Rights Museum
🕘 Start time: 9:01AM
🎶 Food, music & fun to follow
Whether you’re walking or running, this isn’t just a race—it’s a movement. And there’s no better time to join in than now. 👟✨
🎓 COLLEGE STUDENTS: Be one of the first 100 to register using your .edu email with promo code NEXTGENUNITE and your ticket is just $10 (that’s a $32 savings 👀). Limit 2 per person, so tell a friend!
Let’s walk. Let’s run.
Let’s #UniteMemphis 💛
🔗 [link in bio]](https://wearememphis.com/wp-content/uploads/sb-instagram-feed-images/526805187_18335272954206022_6056852028660485499_nfull.webp)
