About the MSF Youth Talent Contest
Does your child have what it takes to be the next Elvis Presley, Patsy Cline, or Justin Timberlake? The Mid-South Fair Youth Talent Contest is the longest-running amateur talent contest in the country, having just completed its 70th year, and virtually all of the great entertainers who originated from the Memphis area have participated in the Contest.
Two divisions make up the Youth Talent Contest – a junior division for those 9 to 12 years old and a senior division for those 13 to 21 years old. Cash prizes are awarded to four acts in both age groups, and the Senior Division Grand Award winner receives a chance to audition in Hollywood or New York City.
2024 CONTEST SCHEDULE
Junior Division (AGES 9-12)
Junior Preliminary – Sept. 21 at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Junior Grand Finals – Sept. 22 at 2 p.m.
The Junior Division Grand Award winner receives a cash prize and a spot to perform at the 2025 Mid-South Fair Youth Talent Contest Junior Grand Finals.
Senior Division (AGES 13-21)
Senior Preliminary – Sept. 21-27 at 6 p.m.
Senior Semi-Finals – Sept. 28 at 10 a.m.
Grand Award Finals – Sept. 29 at 2 p.m.
The Senior Division Grand Award winner will receive a cash prize and be invited to a private audition in Hollywood or New York City, as well as a spot to perform at the 2025 Mid-South Fair Youth Talent Contest Senior Grand Finals.