Every September, the city of Germantown, Tennessee, comes alive with creativity, color, and community pride at one of the region’s most beloved events—the Germantown Festival. Held annually in Germantown Civic Center Complex, this long-running event is a celebration of local art, handmade crafts, food, music, and family fun.
With over four decades of tradition, the Germantown Festival has grown into one of the largest and most well-attended family-friendly events near Memphis. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor looking to experience authentic Tennessee culture, the Germantown Festival offers something for everyone—making it a must-attend event on the regional festival calendar.
A Tennessee Festival Favorite
The Germantown Festival was first launched in 1971, and over the years, it has evolved from a small craft fair into a major community event that draws tens of thousands of visitors. Hosted by the City of Germantown Parks and Recreation Department, the event is free to attend and open to all.
Each year, the festival showcases the community’s dedication to supporting local artisans, small businesses, and nonprofit organizations, reinforcing its status as one of the most authentic and enjoyable annual Tennessee festivals.
What You’ll Find at the Germantown Festival
Arts and Crafts Marketplace
The heart of the Germantown Festival is its expansive arts and crafts fair, where hundreds of vendors from across the region sell:
- Handcrafted jewelry
- Pottery and ceramics
- Home décor
- Seasonal gifts
- Original paintings and photography
- Handmade soaps, candles, and woodwork
This makes the festival one of the best arts and crafts festivals in Germantown for holiday shopping, collecting one-of-a-kind items, or simply enjoying the work of local creatives.
Family Activities and Attractions
For families, the Germantown Festival is packed with engaging activities for children of all ages, including:
- Carnival-style rides and games
- Interactive kids’ zone
- Face painting and balloon art
- Educational booths and crafts
The petting zoo and pony rides are annual favorites, giving younger children a memorable and hands-on experience in the middle of the suburban setting.
The Famous “Running of the Weenies”
No Germantown Festival would be complete without the event’s most whimsical and crowd-pleasing tradition—the Running of the Weenies, a dachshund dog race that brings joy, laughter, and a bit of competitive spirit to the weekend.
Dozens of proud pet owners enter their furry friends into the race, which takes place in a mini-track setting as spectators cheer on their favorite contenders. It’s become one of the most talked-about and Instagram-worthy events of the festival, loved by adults and kids alike.
Food, Music, and Entertainment
Local Flavors and Food Trucks
Throughout the festival grounds, food vendors and trucks offer everything from:
- Southern barbecue and kettle corn
- Gourmet burgers and street tacos
- Funnel cakes, lemonade, and deep-fried treats
These culinary offerings highlight local Memphis-area flavors and provide something to satisfy every palate while supporting small food businesses in the region.
Live Music and Performances
Local bands and performance groups also take the stage, filling the air with live music, dance, and community spirit. Past festivals have featured everything from bluegrass and jazz to youth choirs and cheer teams, creating a vibrant and family-focused atmosphere.
Community Engagement and Nonprofit Participation
The Germantown Festival also serves as a platform for nonprofit organizations, civic clubs, and local schools to engage the public through informational booths, raffles, and fundraising activities. This adds an important community service dimension to the weekend, reminding attendees that the festival is not just about celebration—it’s about connection.
It’s also an opportunity for the City of Germantown to showcase local initiatives, updates, and sustainability programs, reinforcing the city’s commitment to civic pride and forward-thinking leadership.
Plan Your Visit
The Germantown Festival typically takes place the second weekend in September at the Germantown Civic Center Complex:
📍 Municipal Park, 1900 S. Germantown Road, Germantown, TN
🎟️ Free admission and parking available
🐶 Pet-friendly (especially if you’re racing a dachshund!)
Tips for attending:
- Arrive early for the best parking
- Wear comfortable shoes—there’s a lot to see and walk
- Bring cash for vendor booths (though many now accept cards)
- Don’t forget sunscreen, water, and a reusable shopping bag
