By: Kathryn Eftink
Working in healthcare often means sacrificing time with loved ones during the holidays. For perfusionists, this can include missing out on cherished traditions and festive gatherings. While the job is rewarding, it’s natural to feel a bit of longing when the holiday season comes around, and you’re needed in the operating room instead of at the family table.
However, Memphis is brimming with opportunities to keep the holiday magic alive, even if your schedule is packed with shifts. From dazzling light displays to creative workshops, the city offers plenty of ways to soak up seasonal cheer on your days off or in between work hours. Whether you’re shopping for unique gifts, attending festive performances, or simply enjoying a cup of boozy hot chocolate, there’s something in Memphis to remind you that the holiday spirit is all around.
1. The Mint Cream Market, a beloved local indie market that began in 2014, is a must-visit for holiday shopping. Designed to support local artists and small businesses, this market provides the perfect setting to find unique gifts for your loved ones—or treat yourself to something special. Enjoy live music, ice-cold beer, and a warm community atmosphere as you browse. This December, you’ll find the Mint Cream Market at three different locations:
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- ‘Tis The Season | Dec. 7, 1 p.m. – 6 p.m. | Ghost River Brewery
- Yule Holiday Market | Dec. 14, noon – 6 p.m. | High Cotton Brewery
- Christmas Market | Dec. 22, noon – 5 p.m. | Memphis Made Brewing Co
2. Few places in Memphis capture the holiday spirit quite like the Orpheum Theatre, a historic venue decorated in rich reds and glamorous golds. Watching a holiday show in this luxurious setting is an unforgettable experience that brings the season to life. Here are two must-see performances for December:
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- A Charlie Brown Christmas: Live on Stage | Dec. 7 | Shows at 2, 5, and 7:30 p.m.
- Ballet Memphis’ The Nutcracker | Dec. 13 – 15 | Shows at 2 or 7:30 p.m.
3. For plant enthusiasts and crafters alike, the Holiday Terrarium Ornament Workshop is the ideal festive escape. Held at Urban Earth Nursery and Market, this hands-on event lets you create a one-of-a-kind ornament with a choice of air plants or fittonia. Add a sprinkle of holiday flair with moss, stones, berries, tiny snowmen, and so much more!
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- Holiday Terrarium Ornament Workshop | Dec. 6, 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. | Urban Earth Nursery and Market | Cost: $33.63
4. For a holiday outing full of cheer and canine cuteness, don’t miss the 6th Annual Sippin’ with Santa Paws! This festive fundraiser for the Streetdog Foundation is packed with holiday photos in the “Amurica” Photo Booth, a silent auction, live music, drink specials, and even a dog costume contest. Your $25 donation includes a Santa Paws cup, discounted drinks, and a photo to cherish with your furry (or human) family.
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- Sippin’ with Santa Pause | Dec. 8, 2 – 4 p.m. | Loflin yard | Cost: $25
5. The Memphis Holiday Parade is a community favorite, bringing together marching bands, dazzling floats, steppers, and, of course, Santa Claus himself. Held on the iconic Beale Street, this lively event is a perfect way to feel connected to the city’s festive spirit
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- Memphis Holiday Parade | Dec. 14, 2 p.m. | Beale Street
6. The Truist Zoo Lights at the Memphis Zoo is a seasonal spectacle that transforms the park into a winter wonderland. In addition to shimmering light displays, you can enjoy ice skating, train rides, ferris wheel rides, s’mores, and even boozy hot chocolate. It’s a magical experience for people of all ages.
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- Truist Zoo Lights | Select nights through Jan. 4 | 5 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. | Memphis Zoo | $20 per person for non-members
For perfusionists working through the holidays, finding joy amidst your demanding schedule is possible. Memphis is full of holiday magic, from local markets to sparkling light displays. Even if you’re on call or covering shifts, you can still embrace the season in your own way. Remember, the holiday spirit isn’t confined to a specific date—it’s found in moments of community, creativity, and celebration.
Looking for more ways to enjoy life as a healthcare professional in Memphis? Follow Connect Perfusion on Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn for tips, local highlights, and inspiration!