Memphis will get a vibrant dose of community, culture, and commerce when Shop Black Fest returns this Saturday, transforming a high-traffic stretch near the city’s iconic Pyramid into a lively marketplace and gathering space.
Founded by Taniesha Westbrook and her husband, Greg, the festival is part of their larger platform, Shop Black City Tour, which has grown from a 14-vendor pop-up in Nashville to a multi-city movement supporting more than 4,000 Black-owned businesses across 13 cities. The organization not only organizes these events, but it’s more than that: they provide education and resources, like their “Vendor Readiness Program,” to help Black-owned businesses succeed.
And for Westbrook, bringing the Shop Black Fest home to Memphis carries special weight. “There wasn’t a centralized space for Black-owned businesses when we started,” she says. “We wanted to create something that feels good but also creates real opportunity — we like to say we ‘put the medicine in the candy’.”
That philosophy comes to life in a festival that’s as intentional as it is inviting. Nearly 90 vendors will set up shop, ranging from first-time entrepreneurs to seasoned business owners who travel the national circuit. Among them is Artreanna’s Italian Ice, a homegrown success story that began when its founder was just 9 years old, and continues to grow alongside the platform.
But Shop Black Fest goes beyond shopping. Community partners like Planned Parenthood Memphis, YMCA of Memphis, and CodeCrew will be on-site offering resources on wellness, youth programming, and financial literacy — part of the festival’s broader mission to support long-term economic mobility.
The setting itself adds to the experience. Positioned near downtown landmarks and civic spaces, the event creates a sense of pride and visibility for both vendors and attendees. “It’s a celebration,” Westbrook says. “We want people to feel that energy when they arrive, feel safe, and have a good time.”
Expect a full sensory experience: local food vendors, live music, interactive zones, family-friendly programming — including youth performances — and creative spaces designed to spotlight Memphis’ thriving creator economy.
At its core, Shop Black Fest is about connection — between businesses and customers, neighbors and newcomers, ideas and opportunity. Whether you’re browsing, networking, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, the goal is the same: come for the vibe, leave with something more.
SHOP BLACK FEST, BASS PRO DRIVE AND RIVERSIDE DRIVE, SATURDAY, APRIL 11, 1-6 P.M., FREE.
