NYE at Railgarten

Railgarten is having two New Year’s Eve events: one for kids earlier in the day and a bash beginning at 8:00 PM. The kids’ event starts at 12:00 PM and has a buffet, magic show, face painting stations, and a balloon drop. The adults’ bash features Marcus Scott with a champagne toast at midnight and a balloon drop. You can buy tickets through their website.

Starry Nights at Shelby Farms Park

Celebrate the new year in a family-friendly, low-key way by driving through Starry Nights at Shelby Farms Park. You can pack the whole family, including your fur babies, into your car to view this colorful array of lights that’s more sensory-friendly than fireworks and big crowds.

Peabody Memphis NYE Party

Enjoy live music, party favors, champagne, and an appetizer buffet at the Peabody’s South Grand Hotel this New Year’s Eve. Entertainment will include Seeing Red, SouthBound, and DJ A.D. for an unforgettable way to ring in the new year.

Memphis Grizzlies Game

The Memphis Grizzlies are playing a New Year’s Eve game down at the FedEx forum. They’ll be playing the Sacramento Kings starting at 7:00 PM. Buy your tickets now!

Grind City Brewing Co.

Celebrate the New Year when you buy a ticket for Grind City’s NYE party. Your ticket includes an open beer and wine bar, a champagne toast at midnight, El Mero catering, Muddy’s Bake Shop desserts, live music from Elevation Memphis, and self-parking.

Growlers Gimme Gimme Disco

You are the dancing queen at this ABBA-themed NYE party! This DJ-based dance party will be playing all your favorite ABBA hits, plus plenty of other disco hits from the 70s and 80’s like The Bee Gees, Donna Summer, & Cher. Disco attire is encouraged.

A Memphis Celebration at Painting With a Twist

Paint some Memphis New Year’s-themed artwork and sip on some wine during this chill class at Olive Branch’s Painting With a Twist. You can also add a DIY soy candle option to take home your very own aromatic gift. They’re also offering a teen-friendly NYE Blacklight event on December 31st.

New Year’s Eve Dinner at Bog and Barley

This Irish pub will be serving authentic Celtic fare at this event with a special menu of fantastic dishes and a champagne toast at midnight for a tasty way to ring in the new year.

NYE Twilight Zone Marathon Brunch

Head to the Black Lodge in the Crosstown Arts District for a mind-bending New Year’s Eve brunch. Enjoy classic episodes of the Twilight Zone and themed food and drink specials during this unique event.

The post Unique Places to Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Memphis This Year appeared first on We Are Memphis.

 By Carlissa Shaw

Imagine being a 16-year-old and you and all of your best friends pulling up the Shell Entertainment Complex in a stretch limousine. The line was wrapped around the building and stretched down E. Brooks Rd, but we walked straight to the front of the line because we were all on the Shunn Gunn’s “Street Team.” The Street Team was a group of arguably the coolest kids at each school. We would hand out flyers about upcoming Shunn Gunn events in exchange for VIP access to his citywide celebrity style parties right here in Memphis. Thanks to party promoter and businessman, Shunn Gunn, hundreds if not thousands of young Memphihans partied like rockstars their entire high school careers. 

“Back in those days Memphis had over 40 high schools in the city and surrounding areas. It was definitely a market for what I was trying to do. The skating rinks ( Crystal Palace, Skate Odyssey and East End) had elementary, middle school and high school students that frequent those places. I used to think to myself  ‘when I was 15-17, I didn’t want to be in the same company as elementary and middle school kids because damn I’m almost grown’ so that’s who pretty much targeted-high school sophomores, juniors and seniors.” – Shunn Gunn

The Spot, the Shell, the Martini Room, were just a few of the Memphis event spaces that opened their door to host over a thousand teenagers on a regular basis. What made this concept all the more wowing is that there were no mobile social media functions during my time on the Street Team, and very few people had cell phones. The majority of the advertising was done by word of mouth, passing out flyers at school, and radio commercials. From citywide high school greek steps show to the polo shirts and mini skirts parties, Shunn Gunn introduced an entire generation to Memphis nightlife. 

“The Halloween Party I threw in October 2001 at the Shell Complex is what put me on the map for good, and had the whole city buzzing. It featured Mista Ian – who had made a name for himself as a hot rapper and a promoter and a rising local star Yo Gotti. That party also featured a dedication by the hottest dance groups in the city, The Playboyz, The Showboyz, The PlaygyrIz and K.I.S.S. They performed songs by Aaliyah, who had just died in a plane crash two months prior. The ‘01-‘02 school year is what got the ball rolling.” – Shunn Gunn

Let’s talk about Shunn Gunn’s high school steps shows real quick! I have to admit when I got to college, I was a little disappointed about the quality of stepping. My entire high school career, I saw high school steps shows with over the top themes, well put together costumes and complicated step routines. My senior year, my friend Aleece McKnight was the step master for LLE (Lovely Ladies of Elegance). Charming Jenkings was the step master for MDL (Modern Distinctive Ladies), and I was the step master for LOR (Ladies of Roses), and boy was the competition STIFF! Oh, and I have to shout out the ladies of PGK (Phi-Gamma-Kappa) and so many more. The competition and the comradery are things from a movie. 

For the fellas, Kappa League always showed up and out. KDK would give a heck of a show, and we can ever forget Omega Prep. Each semester thousands of teens would turn out to see the battle of the organizations. It was a serious situation. 

“Making donations to those organizations and helping them out as much as possible over the years made me happy. I’d rather people gravitate to an HSO rather than join a gang. If you’re constantly hearing NSI, LLE, PGK, MDL, LOR, DSI, KLL, Alpha Chi, KDK etc being advertised on the radio or flyers it’ll make more teens want to join and be a part of something positive.” – Shunn Gunn

No one can forget my favorite event of the year: the Polo shirts and mini skirts party. I can remember it like it was yesterday. I wore an orange striped Le Tigre shirt with a mini denim skirt from Aeropostale and some ace 83s. I just knew I was so fresh and so clean. You would enter a Shunn Gunn party and see everybody you knew from every high school in the city. Big Tiny was the DJ screaming “Yo momma at the door!”, and the music in the early 2000s was straight dance music. The chicken head was the DANCE, mane. Chingy, Nelly, and Ja Rule would blast through the loudspeaker, and nobody left the club without being drenched in sweat. I can recall several times, leaving a party looking like I just left a swimming pool. 

However, to this day, Shunn Gunn remains more of a myth than an actual person. Some people still think that Shunn Gunn is an entertainment group and not a person. 

“For the next generation of promoters, my advice is to plan, execute, invest – no matter how many times you lose -and stay focused. And always go outside the norm. When I started the theme parties in 2004 (Pretty In Pink in April and The Icey White-All White Party in May) I really didn’t know how successful the turn out would be until I tried it. The city ate it up and loved those themes so I kept them coming. Never be afraid to jump into the unknown is the point I’m making. If it’s 10 promoters targeting the same age demographic, you have to do something they’re not doing to make your event stand out from the rest.” – Shunn Gunn

If you were in high school in Memphis from 2000-2014, chances are you have memories from Shunn Gunn parties. Shunn Gunn is truly a Memphis legend and provided quality entertainment for an entire generation of Memphians. 

The post How Shunn Gunn Introduced Memphis Nightlife To An Entire Generation appeared first on We Are Memphis.

Some cultures believe how you leave the old year is how you’ll live the new year. If you’ll be stuck in a corner, third-wheeling at your friend’s apartment with their partner and chugging a bottle of Cooks’ Champagne, you might want to reconsider New Years’ Eve plans.

Before you start cooking your black-eyed-peas, check out this list of events and activities in Memphis that’ll seal your 2019 as one year to remember or launch the new decade as one of excitement, thrill and new beginnings.

Hulesy Britt & Cynthia Daniels present The Party Life: NYE Experience at Hilton Memphis

One of the first things you see when you visit nyepartylife.com is this: Leave Your Wallets at Home on NYE! Enjoy Open Bar & Hors D’Oeuvres All Night Long. What else is there to say? What other selling point do you need? An open bar and a purse free party? Sign me up!

Leave your New Year’s Eve experience in the hands of Cynthia Daniels, well-known event coordinator and founder of Memphis Black Restaurant Week along with Memphis 40 Under 40 Urban Elite Awards. One of the most anticipated events of the year, Cynthia Daniels and Hulesy Britt have curated tour de france experience that begs for more after midnight – and the party doesn’t stop. This is a good spot for you to take the bae and their parents if they’re visiting Memphis for the holidays. If you’re looking for sophisticated fun with the boo, a chance to get dressed up with a pair of flats in your purse and a – one more time for the people in the back – AN OPEN BAR, this is where you need to be. Starting at 9 PM, The NYE Experience will jump off at the Hilton Hotel at 939 Ridge Lake Blvd. There will be a balloon drop at midnight with soulful performances from local artists including Courtney Little and Karen Brown. Since the drinks will be flowing all night, consider booking a hotel room for the night with one of the special package offers with ticket sales. Cynthia and Hulesy have made it possible for you to drink and party responsibly. You and your group of friends can secure a table, but move quickly – they’re selling like Chings’ Hotwings.

Curtis Givens and Socialpreneurs present NYE Celebration at Love

“Ain’t no party like a Curtis Givens party!” Memphis’ numero uno socialite and party promoter, Curtis Givens, is linking with Tony Smith and Andy Woods this NYE and giving you a 40/40 club experience that Jay Z would envy. You’ll need your finest garbs for this one. Cub Love, located at 7144 Winchester Rd, is owned by Givens and always provides a good time to its patrons. This may be the closest you’ll get to a P. Diddy 50th birthday bash in Memphis. Tickets and tables can be purchased online, and trust – you’ll want a table to enjoy your drinks, hookah and food that many folks in Memphis enjoy. Don’t miss out on this. The Socialpreneurs are known to throw parties that leave everyone talking the next day, and what better way to start the new decade than with good conversation about a good night. Take your boo or go single and meet a new fling for the new year. #EatDrinkSocialize

NYE Party @ The Peabody Hotel

You think the Peabody won’t turn-up? Think again. This JUNT sells out every year and is packed from wall-to-wall. It’s the most anticipated NYE party in the city. You’ll need to hire a babysitter and find a sequin, shiny outfit quickly if you plan to attend the “South’s Grand Hotel.” Entertainment is hosted by DJ Epic, Seeing Red and a Memphis favorite, Almost Famous. Start your night with a dinner on Main Street and walk over to the Peabody Hotel to dance the year away. Word on the street is VIP is already sold out! So chop chop!

Beale Street

If you’re looking for something a little more easy on the knees and ankles, check out the famous Beale Street! The 8th Wonder of the World is exactly the most epic place to bring in the new decade with fireworks, music and people you’ve never met. Put on your tennis shoes and bar hop from Wet Willies to B.B. King’s. Stop for a hearty dinner at Miss Polly’s or dance for free in the middle of the street (stay clear of the Beale Street flippers). Clubs with live bands and fire dj’s will be sure to be live all night long. Whether you’re in the mood for Blues, Hip Hop, Country or Rhythm and Soul, Beale has everything you need to party away and forget the trials of 2019. Beale will be sure to gather tens of thousands of people as it does each year. If you want to be around the crowd, but not in it – try stopping by popular bars like Tin Roof and The Hu Hotel who are having NYE specials. You must be 21 and above to turn-up!

Speakeasy Spectacular at Minglewood

If you’re looking for a theme-like shindig, try the Speakeasy Spectacular at Minglewood. This party will bring the 1920s to life in 2020. According to their website, you’ll sneak in through a back door with a special password that you’ll receive when you buy your tickets. You’ll be escorted into the 1920s themed area, escorted by bouncers into the “world of bathtub gin, roaring jazz and the sensuality of our smoldering stage shows.” There will be a dance floor where everyone will join for the new year countdown. The party will then transition into 2020 themed ambiance with futuristic lights, lasers and the latest pop hits. There’s also a complimentary buffet and free champagne for the midnight toast. Proceeds go towards Friends for Life and community efforts toward access to PrEp.

NYE Dinner and Dancing at Graceland

Nothing says NYE in Memphis like Dinner and Dancing at Graceland. The Guest House at Graceland is a great escape from the kids, family and groove with your favorite King of Rock-n-Roll. Whether you’re an Elvis fan or just enjoy the architecture and ambiance of the Whitehaven landmark, you’ll enjoy what the Guest House has to offer. Dinner and Dancing for Two includes guestroom, dinner buffet for two people from 8pm – 10pm, champagne toast at midnight and dancing from 9pm – 1am with special guest band, Party Planet.

You don’t have to bring in the New Year at home watching It’s A Wonderful Life for the 10th time this season, or going to Watch Night service at your grandmother’s church. Start the decade with some new Memphis traditions with friends or make new ones. Kick off your new year in Memphis style and TURN UP!

The post The 901 NYE Event Lineup appeared first on We Are Memphis.

Tip 1: Start with Happy Hour in Memphis

Check out your favorite bars and restaurants for Happy Hour Memphis deals during the week. If you have champagne taste, you can get a deal at Old Dominick’s infamous Pure Memphis Cocktail Hours Thursday – 2-7pm, Friday – 2-8pm, Saturday – 2-8pm, Sunday – 12pm-5pm.  For a more budget-friendly option, check out the Flying Saucer Draught Emporium’s self-proclaimed “Best Happy Hour in Memphis.” Happy Hour is from 4-7 pm Tuesday through Friday and features $4 draft beers. Blind Bear Speakeasy has great Happy Hour deals like $2.50 domestic beers and two for $5 taco deals. If you prefer weekend partying, check out Day Parties where you can get food and drink deals with the cost of admission.

Tip 2: Groupon It

Groupon has great deals for drinks and entertainment. One great deal that we found was an appetizers and beer deal starting at $11.55 at The Casual Pint.

Tip 3: Double Up

Check out places where you get drinks and entertainment. A local bowling alley is a great start and has good drinks and bar food at reasonable prices. Places like Dave and Busters and Golf & Games Family Park stay open late and can also offer a good time at a reasonable price. 

Tip 4: Take it to School

College bars are notorious for drink specials, especially on a game day. Note: Just don’t be creepy. Find campus bars near the University of Memphis and the other 43 colleges within 100 miles of Memphis.

Tip 5: Dance

Get your party on at a dance club. Pay a small door fee and party-till-you-drop. Paula & Raiford’s Disco is a Memphis icon that is open until 4 a.m. For a night of sexy salsa dancing, head over to the legendary Rumba Room. If you’ve got a little country in your soul, head over to Beale Street to Jerry Lee Lewis Café & Honky Tonk. 

Tip 6: Stay Social 

Join a social club or group. Check out Meetup for a list of events in your area. Groups like Memphis 20s and 30s Social have more than 2,000 members and is free to join. They hold events throughout the city. You can find a group for any interest. Check out local chapters for events. They might even have bar specials or you may be able to drink for free with memberships.

Tip 7: Cruise Beale Street

In Memphis, Beale Street is the obvious choice for late-night entertainment but partying there can leave a dent in your wallet. There are still deals to be had. People’s on Beale Street is a pool hall and sports bar. To get a huge bang for your buck, check out Silky O’Sullivan’s. They serve a drink in a bucket!!!

No matter what your budget, there is a place for you to party in Memphis! 

You may also be interested in: Here are the best BBQ spots in Memphis!

The post Happy Hour in Memphis: How to Party in Memphis (and not go broke) appeared first on We Are Memphis.

Lucky for you, there are a lot of cocktail bars Memphis!  There are so many spots where you can sit down to an expertly prepared boozy beverage. Whether you’re looking for a local watering hole or an upscale establishment, here’s a list of some of the best cocktail spots with some of the best cocktails in Memphis!

Hen House

While the Hen House primarily serves top-tier wines, cocktail lovers shouldn’t be shy about stopping in. This new East Memphis space will have a cocktail program featuring house-made syrups and even lessons and educational classes led by mixologist Tony Nguyen. Paired with family-style shareable dishes that have elevated Southern flavors, this space is a can’t miss.

Bar DKDC

Memphians are more than familiar with Karen Carrier’s Beauty Shop Restaurant, but stopping by Bar DKDC is a must. From the eccentric decor that makes you feel like you’re in one of the coolest spots in town to drinks featuring flavors from far off lands (as well as classics we all know and love), Bar DKDC is a perfect addition to your happy-hour lineup. Be sure to check out their live music lineup for the ultimate cocktail bar experience in Memphis.

Crosstown Art Bar

Are you looking for a space with good drinks and even better vibes? Art Bar is for you. Tucked away in the Crosstown Arts Gallery at Crosstown Concourse, the drinks are the only great things about this cocktail bar in Memphis. As expected of some of the artsiest Memphians in town, the aesthetics of the space are perfect for unwinding with something to sip.

Bar Hustle

Set in the Arrive Hotel, Bar Hustle not only has some amazing drinks and menu items, but also has some serious South Main spirit. Whether you’re cozying up with a cocktail in their comfy seating or using their decor as the backdrop for photos of your drink to post on Instagram (they’re going to look amazing, by the way), you’ll find something to love about this bar.

Eight and Sand

Visiting Central Station Hotel? Out of towners may be looking for a place to rest their heads, but Memphians know that Eight and Sand is one of the best bars in the city. We know that anything Andy Ticer and Michael Hudman is going to be good, but this bar goes above and beyond. The phrase “Eight and Sand” is sort of like “break and leg” for the train industry and going to this bar is definitely good luck. The curated playlists are more than enough to put you in a Memphis mood but don’t forget to come on a night where a live DJ is spinning both the classics and a little bit of something new. Full steam ahead indeed.

Inkwell

Located in the Edge District, Inkwell’s cocktails are seriously something else! The mixologists are truly talented, mixing up inventive flavors on a rotating menu. Whether you’re planning a romantic date night or a fun hangout with friends, Inkwell Bar guarantees an unforgettable experience that’ll have you coming back for more.

BarWare

BarWare is the sleek and sophisticated new kid on the downtown block. Not only does this spot have a great cocktail menu, but it’s also a good spot for lunch for all you downtowners! It’s so good that we won’t tell if you hit them up twice in one day. Looking for a lowkey date night location? The upscale vibes (yet totally accessible menu) The upscale vibes (yet totally accessible menu) make it the perfect date location too.

Knifebird 

This Cooper-Young wine bar may have an extensive list of wines and some great plates, but their cocktail menu shouldn’t be overlooked. Not only does the team have a full bar, but their speciality cocktails includes ingredients such as Flor de Caña rum, Henry McKenna bourbon, and Memphis’ own Old Dominick toddy.

Loflin Yard

Located in a renovated space that used to be home to a lock-and-key company, this cozy bar serves up barrel-aged drinks carefully crafted from classic recipes. Definitely check out the Tennessee old-fashioned! Although the indoor portion of Loflin Yard is tiny, there’s an expansive outdoor seating area complete with a massive covered patio that overlooks a man-made waterfall running into the Gayoso Bayou, complete with cornhole, giant Jenga, and plenty of other outdoor games.

Memphis may be famous for its music venues, but it’s no slouch when it comes to cocktail bars either. Next time you visit Memphis, be sure to stop by one of these establishments for a tasty mixed drink.

A fan of Memphis craft beer? Go here!

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From ribs to brisket, Memphis’ BBQ scene has got you covered

You may also be interested in: Memphis Food | Food & Drink Places

Here’s to good drinks, Memphis!

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