Memphis News Today: Stories That Matter to Our City

The University of Memphis is proving once again that its influence extends far beyond the classroom. A new economic impact report from Applied Analysis shows that UofM is not only shaping the city’s future leaders but also fueling the Mid-South economy to the tune of nearly $1 billion annually. From day-to-day operations and nationally recognized…

Downtown Memphis came alive this past weekend as more than 10,000 people gathered to celebrate everything that makes our city special on 901 Day. The day was filled with music, food, family fun, and Memphis pride, with Mayor Paul Young noting the positive energy that carried throughout the event. “Disregarding all the negativity you hear…

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — The Tennessee Department of Tourist Development reported a record $31.7 billion in visitor spending for 2024, with nearly $4.3 billion of that occurring in the Memphis metro area. The newly released data highlights that Shelby County alone accounted for $4.2 billion of the spending, making it the second-highest county in Tennessee for…

Memphis powerhouse event planner Cynthia Daniels has found a new stage for community connection — inside Ikea. A longtime fan of the Swedish retailer, Daniels was inspired after spotting a Memphis music–themed display in the store. The idea sparked conversations with Ikea’s leadership, and soon after, Cynthia Daniels & Co. Series @ Ikea was born.…

The Memphis Zoo’s beloved black bear, River, has captured hearts online after a recent video showed him turning a simple wheelbarrow into the ultimate lounging spot. In the clip, posted by the Memphis Zoo on August 5, the 20-year-old bear flips over a bright yellow wheelbarrow left in his habitat as enrichment. After a few…

On Labor Day morning, as cities across the country gather for parades and celebrations, Memphis will hit the pavement for a different kind of gathering—one grounded in unity, healing, and forward momentum. The Unite Memphis 5K and 1-Mile Walk/Run returns for its fourth year on Monday, September 1 at 9:01 a.m., and for the first…

Tucked behind an unassuming “FCS” sign in the heart of Harbor Town, Fat Charlie’s Speakeasy has quietly become one of Downtown Memphis’ best-kept secrets. Now, the secret’s out—this cozy cigar bar and cocktail lounge has been named one of USA TODAY’s 29 Bars of the Year for 2025. Founded in 2020 by husband-and-wife team Will…

The City of Memphis is moving forward with a $55 million renovation of AutoZone Park, signaling a strong commitment to keeping the Memphis Redbirds in the city long-term and potentially sparking new development around the stadium. In June, the city signed a contract with project management firm Vieste, marking the beginning of what is described…

St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is laying the groundwork for the most ambitious building project in its history—a towering 16-story research facility that will shape the future of pediatric care and innovation in Memphis. A newly filed $43.8 million construction permit with the Memphis and Shelby County Division of Planning and Development marks the beginning…