Memphis, Tenn. December 2025 – More than half a million tulips will bloom across the Dixon Gallery & Gardens grounds during the 2026 spring season – more than three times the number of bulbs planted in a typical year. As one of the signature elements of the museum’s 50th anniversary in 2026, the horticultural display will feature several varieties, including a bloom specifically created for and named after the Dixon. The landmark year will include a full season of Dixon-organized exhibitions, free community-centered programming, and elevated events that highlight the museum’s impact over five decades.
Ahead of the spring tulips display, the Dixon will open its anniversary year with a robust lineup of exhibitions, beginning on Jan. 25, with the final installment of its Black Artists in America series – a multiyear project culminating with a look at the last two-thirds of the 20th century, from the bicentennial to Sept. 11, 2001. This final chapter highlights the contributions and influence of Black artists during a transformative period in American history.
Come summer, the Dixon presents Café Society: Art and Sociability in Paris, 1855 – 1914, which has been in development by the museum since 2011, and explores how French cafés shaped artistic discussion and influenced the creative landscape. These exhibitions will be joined by various showcases from local and regional artists, including Roger Allan Cleaves in the Mallory and Wurtzburger Galleries and Mary Sims in the main galleries, as well as interactive art experiences. Every exhibition presented in 2026 is curated and organized by the Dixon. Additionally, this year’s Memphis Flower Show: Masquerade, taking place this spring, will feature intricate floral exhibits inspired by the work of Mary Sims.
A variety of free community events will be offered for Memphians to enjoy throughout the year. The Community Celebration on Jan. 25 – the day the Dixon officially opened its doors in 1976 – will feature special tours, a Dixon documentary screening, golden ticket giveaways, and more. Inspired by Margaret Dixon’s love of hosting outdoors, the March 28 Anniversary Garden Party will be a spring soirée to remember, featuring great food, drinks, and entertainment set against 17 acres of stunning garden views.
Beloved annual events, like Art on the Rocks and Art of Fire, will be bigger and better. In honor of the 50th anniversary, these staples will be elevated to a grander scale. Supported by members and donors, these events have sustained the operations of the Dixon since its opening and will support accessibility to arts and horticulture, including free admission to the museum and gardens for good.
The community is also invited to share their favorite memories about their time at the Dixon. Whether someone crossed paths with Margaret and Hugo Dixon, was married in the gardens, or visited yesterday, everyone is encouraged to share their connection at dixon.org/dixon-stories. Memphians can also discover the Dixon on WKNO, Jan. 30, when it airs the museum’s documentary, which details its history and impact on the Memphis community.
Throughout 2026, visitors can purchase special merchandise in the museum’s gift shop, featuring throwback logos and 50th anniversary-branded items. For more information about the 50th anniversary and history of the museum, visit dixon50.org.
About Dixon Gallery and Gardens
Founded in 1976 by Hugo and Margaret Dixon, the Dixon Gallery and Gardens is a fine art museum and public garden distinguished by its diverse and innovative programs in the arts and horticulture. In addition to the collection of French masterpieces, porcelain, and pewter, every year, the Dixon organizes and presents 10 to 12 exhibitions – the diversity of which appeals to visitors of all ages. For more information about the Dixon, visit dixon.org.
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