How to Find Memphis in May Security

Memphis in May is one of the most anticipated annual events in the southeastern United States, drawing tens of thousands of visitors to downtown Memphis, Tennessee. Known for its world-class barbecue competition, Beale Street Music Festival, International Festival, and Sunset Symphony, the event transforms the city into a vibrant cultural hub. However, with large crowds, extended hours, and multiple venues, security becomes a critical component of ensuring a safe, enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

Many attendees, vendors, and organizers ask: “How do I find Memphis in May security?” This question often stems from a desire to understand who is responsible for safety, how to report concerns, where to locate official security personnel, and how to prepare for potential risks. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap to identifying, accessing, and working with Memphis in May security infrastructure — not as a reactive measure, but as a proactive strategy for event preparedness.

Understanding Memphis in May security isn’t about finding a single phone number or checkpoint. It’s about recognizing the layered ecosystem of public safety, private security, emergency response, and community collaboration that operates during the event. This guide demystifies that system, offering practical insights, real-world examples, and actionable best practices to help you navigate the event safely and confidently.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Understand the Structure of Memphis in May Security Operations

Memphis in May is not managed by a single security entity. Instead, it operates under a coordinated public-private partnership involving multiple agencies. The primary security components include:

• Memphis Police Department (MPD) – Provides uniformed officers, K-9 units, traffic control, and incident response teams.
• Shelby County Sheriff’s Office – Supports crowd management and perimeter security, especially around Beale Street and Tom Lee Park.
• Private Event Security Contractors – Hired by Memphis in May, Inc. to manage access control, bag checks, and vendor monitoring.
• Memphis Fire Department and EMS – Operate medical response stations and rapid intervention teams.
• University of Memphis and Local Campus Security – Assist with parking, shuttle routes, and student volunteer coordination.

Knowing this structure helps you identify the right point of contact depending on your need. For instance, if you lose an item, private security may assist; if you witness a crime, MPD is the primary responder.

Step 2: Locate Official Security Stations and Information Booths

During the event, multiple official security and information stations are strategically placed across key zones:

• Beale Street Entertainment District – Stations at the intersection of Beale and 2nd Street, and near the Hard Rock Cafe.
• Tom Lee Park – Central security hub near the main stage, with visible tents marked “Security & Info.”
• Memphis Cook Convention Center – Dedicated entrance security and lost-and-found desk.
• Memphis International Airport and Major Parking Lots – Mobile units stationed for early arrivals and late departures.

These stations are clearly marked with blue and white signage, often featuring the Memphis in May logo alongside “Security Assistance” or “Event Support.” Staff at these booths are trained to direct you to the correct authority — whether it’s a lost child, medical emergency, or suspicious activity.

Step 3: Identify Uniformed and Non-Uniformed Personnel

Not all security personnel wear uniforms. Understanding the difference helps you recognize legitimate staff and avoid scams.

• Uniformed Officers – Wear MPD or Sheriff’s uniforms with badges and name tags. They carry radios and often patrol on foot, bicycle, or ATV.
• Private Security Staff – Typically wear dark blue or black polo shirts with Memphis in May logos, ID badges, and sometimes vests. They do not carry firearms but are trained in de-escalation and emergency protocol.
• Volunteers – Wearing bright green or yellow shirts, they assist with directions and event logistics but are not authorized to handle security matters.

If someone approaches you claiming to be security but lacks proper identification or appears unprofessional, do not engage. Instead, walk to the nearest official station and report the individual.

Step 4: Use the Official Memphis in May Mobile App

The Memphis in May mobile app is a critical tool for real-time security updates. Available on iOS and Android, the app provides:

• Live map of security checkpoints and medical stations
• Push notifications for weather alerts, evacuations, or crowd surges
• One-touch emergency reporting with GPS location sharing
• Directory of all official security personnel by zone

To access the app, search “Memphis in May” in your device’s app store. Download it before arriving. Once opened, enable location services and notifications. The app syncs directly with the event’s command center, ensuring you receive updates within seconds of an incident.

Step 5: Learn How to Report Security Concerns

If you observe something suspicious — unattended bags, aggressive behavior, unauthorized access to restricted areas — know how to report it properly.

Follow this three-step protocol:

1. Observe and Document – Note the time, location, description of the person or object, and any unusual behavior. Do not confront or touch anything.
2. Use the App or Call the Hotline – Within the app, tap “Report Incident.” Alternatively, text “SECURITY” to 77255 (standard messaging rates apply) to send a location-tagged alert.
3. Move to Safety – If the situation feels urgent, move away calmly and proceed to the nearest security station. Do not delay reporting.

Reports are processed immediately. The command center can dispatch personnel within 90 seconds in high-traffic zones. False reports are rare and discouraged, but the system is designed to prioritize safety over hesitation.

Step 6: Familiarize Yourself with Emergency Evacuation Routes

Each venue has clearly marked evacuation routes, posted on signage and included in the event map. Key routes include:

• Tom Lee Park – Exits at 3rd Street, 4th Street, and along the Mississippi River walkway.
• Beale Street – Evacuation paths lead to Union Avenue, Main Street, and the Riverfront Plaza.
• Convention Center – Emergency exits are labeled in red and lead to the loading docks and adjacent parking garages.

Upon arrival, take two minutes to locate the nearest exit from your planned location. Avoid assuming you know the layout — temporary barriers and crowd flow changes can alter usual paths.

Step 7: Coordinate with Event Staff for Special Needs

If you have mobility challenges, medical conditions, or are traveling with children or elderly companions, Memphis in May offers specialized security coordination.

Visit the “Guest Services” booth at Tom Lee Park or the Convention Center entrance to register for:

• Personalized escort services
• Priority access to medical tents
• Designated quiet zones for sensory-sensitive attendees
• Lost child reunification protocol

Staff will provide a wristband with a unique identifier and direct you to a dedicated security liaison who monitors your location throughout the event.

Step 8: Prepare for Nighttime Security Considerations

Beale Street and Tom Lee Park remain active after dark. Security increases during evening hours with additional lighting, patrol drones, and thermal cameras.

Key tips:

• Stay within well-lit, high-traffic areas. Avoid alleys or closed-off streets.
• Use the app’s “Safe Walk” feature to request a security escort back to your vehicle or hotel.
• Never leave belongings unattended, even for a moment. Theft increases after 10 PM.
• Designate a meeting point with your group if you get separated.

Best Practices

Plan Ahead: Know the Schedule and Zones

Memphis in May spans multiple venues and days. Each zone has different security protocols. For example:

• The barbecue competition at Tom Lee Park has strict bag limits and no alcohol outside designated areas.
• Beale Street allows alcohol consumption but prohibits glass containers and open flames.
• The International Festival at the Convention Center requires ticket verification at every entrance.

Review the official event map and schedule at memphisinmay.org before arrival. Knowing where you’ll be and what rules apply reduces the chance of accidental violations that could trigger security intervention.

Carry Minimal Essentials

Security checkpoints are efficient but can cause delays if you’re carrying oversized bags or prohibited items. Follow the “three-item rule”:

• One small clutch or crossbody bag (under 12” x 12”)
• One water bottle (empty, to be filled at hydration stations)
• One phone and wallet

Leave backpacks, coolers, drones, and large cameras at home or in your vehicle. Prohibited items are confiscated, not returned. The less you carry, the faster you move through checkpoints.

Wear Comfortable, Identifiable Clothing

Wear bright colors or a distinctive accessory — a hat, scarf, or pin — that makes you easier to spot if separated from your group. Avoid all-black outfits that blend into crowds. Security personnel are trained to look for individuals who stand out.

Establish a Communication Plan

Cell service can be overloaded during peak hours. Before arriving, agree with your group on:

• A central meeting point (e.g., “The Big Memphis BBQ sign near the fountain”)
• A backup contact outside the event (e.g., a friend at home who can relay messages)
• Using the app’s “Check-In” feature to signal you’re safe

Texting is more reliable than calling during congestion. Save key numbers: MPD non-emergency (901-636-3333), event app support, and your group’s emergency contact.

Stay Informed Through Official Channels

Do not rely on social media rumors or unverified posts. Follow these official sources:

• Memphis in May Twitter/X: @MemphisInMay
• Facebook: facebook.com/MemphisInMay
• Instagram: @memphisinmay
• Website: www.memphisinmay.org

Updates are posted in real time during incidents, weather changes, or schedule adjustments. Bookmark these links on your phone before the event.

Respect Security Protocols

Security personnel are not there to inconvenience you — they’re there to protect you. Refusing bag checks, arguing over rules, or attempting to bypass checkpoints increases risk for everyone. Compliance ensures smooth operations and faster response times. Treat staff with courtesy; they are often working 12+ hour shifts in extreme weather.

Know Your Rights — and Responsibilities

You have the right to ask why a search is being conducted and to request a supervisor if you feel your rights are being violated. However, you also have the responsibility to comply with lawful directives. Event security operates under Tennessee state laws governing public gatherings. Refusing a search may result in denial of entry or removal from the premises.

Prepare for Weather and Environmental Risks

May in Memphis can bring sudden thunderstorms, high heat, or humidity. Security teams monitor weather radars and may initiate crowd control measures if conditions become hazardous. Carry a small towel, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle. Hydration stations are free and abundant — use them.

Tools and Resources

Official Memphis in May Mobile App

Download: iOS App Store or Google Play

Features: Live maps, emergency reporting, schedule alerts, security personnel directory, lost-and-found portal, shuttle tracking, and weather alerts.

Memphis in May Website

URL: www.memphisinmay.org

Resources: Full event map, security policy document, prohibited items list, volunteer sign-up, accessibility guides, and FAQ section.

Memphis Police Department Public Safety Portal

URL: www.memphistn.gov/police

Access: Real-time crime maps, neighborhood alerts, and non-emergency reporting tools. Useful for pre-event research on surrounding areas.

Shelby County Emergency Management

URL: www.shelbycountytn.gov/emergency

Provides regional alerts for flooding, power outages, or large-scale incidents that may impact event operations.

Google Maps Event Mode

Search “Memphis in May” on Google Maps during the event. It auto-updates with:

• Real-time crowd density indicators
• Detours and road closures
• Walking time estimates between venues
• Public transit options

Enable “Incident Reports” to see user-submitted alerts (e.g., “crowd surge near stage” or “police activity on Beale”).

Emergency Contact Directory

Save these numbers in your phone before arriving:

• MPD Non-Emergency: 901-636-3333
• Event Security Hotline (text): 77255 (text “SECURITY”)
• Medical Emergency: Dial 911
• Lost Child Hotline: 901-527-1234 (via app or booth)
• Memphis Fire & EMS: 901-636-3700

Community Watch Programs

Local businesses and residents participate in the “Beale Street Watch” initiative. Look for small blue signs in windows that say “We Are Watchful.” These establishments serve as unofficial security outposts — staff can alert official teams if they notice something unusual.

Volunteer Training Materials

Even if you’re not volunteering, review the public training modules on the Memphis in May website. These explain how security works, what to expect, and how to assist others — valuable knowledge for any attendee.

Real Examples

Example 1: Lost Child Reunification

In 2023, a 7-year-old girl became separated from her family during the Beale Street Music Festival. Her mother immediately used the Memphis in May app to report a missing child. Within 47 seconds, a nearby security officer received the alert with GPS coordinates. The child was found near a food vendor, calm and unharmed, by a volunteer who recognized her from the app’s photo alert. She was reunited with her parents at the central security hub in under 12 minutes.

Key takeaway: Reporting immediately through the app drastically reduces search time. Parents should upload a recent photo of their child to the app before arrival.

Example 2: Suspicious Package Detection

During the 2022 International Festival, a private security officer noticed an unattended duffel bag near the Egyptian exhibit. Following protocol, he cordoned off the area and notified MPD. Bomb-sniffing K-9 units arrived within 3 minutes. The bag contained a forgotten costume prop — no threat. But the quick response prevented panic and maintained public trust.

Key takeaway: Never ignore unattended items. Reporting them saves lives.

Example 3: Heat Emergency Response

On a record-breaking 98°F day in 2021, over 200 attendees sought medical aid for heat exhaustion. Medical tents were overwhelmed. The command center activated a “Cool Down Protocol”: water mist stations were deployed, shaded rest areas opened, and shuttle buses increased frequency to transport vulnerable attendees to air-conditioned zones. No hospitalizations occurred.

Key takeaway: Security isn’t just about crime — it’s about environmental safety. Stay hydrated and know where the nearest medical station is.

Example 4: Crowd Surge Management

When a surprise guest performer took the stage at Tom Lee Park, the crowd surged toward the front. Security teams, trained in crowd dynamics, used pre-planned barriers and directional staff to channel movement safely. No injuries occurred, and the performance continued uninterrupted.

Key takeaway: Security personnel are trained to manage sudden changes. Trust their instructions — they’re designed to prevent stampedes.

Example 5: Unauthorized Drone Activity

In 2020, a drone flew over the Sunset Symphony, disrupting the performance and violating FAA rules. A security officer spotted it using a radio-frequency detector. Within 3 minutes, MPD located the operator on a nearby rooftop. The drone was confiscated, and the individual was cited. The event resumed without further incident.

Key takeaway: Drones are strictly prohibited. Don’t attempt to fly one — it’s illegal and dangerous.

FAQs

Can I bring my pet to Memphis in May?

No. Only service animals certified under the ADA are permitted. Emotional support animals are not allowed. Pets are not permitted in any venue due to crowd safety, sanitation, and noise concerns.

Are weapons allowed at Memphis in May events?

No. Firearms, knives, pepper spray, tasers, or any weapon — visible or concealed — are strictly prohibited. This includes replica weapons. All bags are subject to search.

What if I need medication during the event?

Medical tents have licensed staff who can assist with minor issues. For prescription medications, carry them in original containers with a valid ID. You may be asked to show proof. Emergency EpiPens and inhalers are allowed and encouraged.

Is there a lost and found?

Yes. Each major venue has a lost-and-found station. Items are collected daily and stored at the Convention Center Security Office. Visit in person or call 901-527-1234 to inquire. Unclaimed items are donated after the event.

Can I take photos or videos?

Yes, for personal use. However, commercial photography and drones require a permit. Tripods and professional equipment may be restricted in crowded areas. Always ask permission before photographing security personnel or other attendees.

What happens if I’m denied entry?

If you’re denied entry due to a prohibited item or behavior, you will be given a written explanation and directed to a supervisor. You may leave and return later if you resolve the issue (e.g., discard a banned item). Refusal to comply may result in removal from the premises.

Is parking secure?

Designated parking lots have on-site security patrols and surveillance. Avoid leaving valuables in your vehicle. Use the official Memphis in May parking map to find approved lots. Valet services are available at premium locations.

How early should I arrive to avoid long lines?

For popular events like the Beale Street Music Festival, arrive at least 90 minutes before gates open. Lines for bag checks and entry can exceed 45 minutes during peak hours. Early arrival also gives you time to locate security stations and medical tents.

What languages do security staff speak?

Most staff speak English. Many are bilingual in Spanish. The app includes translation features for 12 languages. If you need assistance in another language, request an interpreter at any security booth.

Are there quiet or sensory-friendly zones?

Yes. Designated quiet areas are available at Tom Lee Park and the Convention Center. These zones offer dim lighting, reduced sound, and seating for neurodiverse attendees or those needing a break from stimulation. Ask at any guest services booth.

Conclusion

Finding Memphis in May security isn’t about searching for a single point of contact — it’s about understanding a well-coordinated, multi-layered system designed with your safety in mind. From the uniformed officers patrolling Beale Street to the volunteers guiding crowds at Tom Lee Park, every role is intentional and trained for excellence.

This guide has provided you with a clear, actionable roadmap: know the structure, locate the stations, use the tools, follow the best practices, and learn from real examples. The most powerful tool you have is awareness. By preparing in advance, carrying minimal essentials, and trusting official channels, you transform from a passive attendee into an informed, proactive participant in the event’s safety ecosystem.

Memphis in May is more than a festival — it’s a community celebration. And like any community, its strength lies in the collective responsibility of everyone present. When you know how to find security, you help ensure that the music plays, the barbecue sizzles, and the memories are made — safely and joyfully.

Visit memphisinmay.org one final time before the event. Bookmark the map. Download the app. Share this guide with your group. And when you step into the heart of Memphis in May, walk with confidence — because you’re not just attending an event. You’re part of its safety.