Traffic headaches are already on the radar as Memphis gears up for its Liberty For All blowout at Liberty Park on Tiger Lane, where thousands are expected to crowd in for live music, food trucks and what the city is touting as its biggest fireworks display. The free event runs Thursday from 5 to 9 p.m., and Memphis police say officers will be out in force to guide traffic and keep an eye on safety while reminding visitors to lock their cars and leave valuables at home.
Police Share Safety Reminders
In a Facebook update, the Memphis Police Department said Colonel Willie Mathena joined city leaders to spell out traffic and safety plans ahead of the Liberty For All celebration. The department is asking attendees to follow directions from officers and event staff when entering and leaving the area, to lock vehicles and remove valuables before heading in, and to plan for sober rides home by designating a driver or using rideshare. MPD is also urging everyone to build in extra time for both the trip there and the ride back.
What’s On The Schedule
Memphis Parks lists Liberty For All as a free evening event at Liberty Park on Tiger Lane on Thursday from 5 to 9 p.m. and notes that the lineup includes live music, food trucks, carnival games and face painting. According to Memphis Parks, the night wraps with the city’s largest fireworks display, with the department handling most of the on site activities while community partners and stadium organizers support the event footprint and logistics.
Traffic And Getting There
City officials have already been huddling on traffic and safety planning for the crowd. As reported by Action News 5, Memphis Parks and police met in advance of the celebration to coordinate traffic control. Officials are urging people to lean on rideshares or public transit when they can and to arrive early to dodge the worst of the congestion. Drivers should be ready for heavier traffic than usual on Tiger Lane and nearby streets around the stadium area during the show and as the fireworks crowd clears out.
Tips For Attendees
Organizers say to come prepared for a long but lively evening: a lawn chair, water and a little patience will go a long way when the crowds swell and lines for food and restrooms stretch out. According to the Memphis Police Department, anyone planning to drink should lock in a sober driver or rideshare before leaving Liberty Park, and everyone should plan for extra travel time because of scheduled closures. Admission and parking are free, but with thousands of people and restricted roads in the mix, getting out of the area could take a while once the last firework pops.
