Well the legend of Elvis still lives on in Parkes NSW every January at the Parkes Elvis Festival.
It is more than 47 years since Elvis left us, yet over 25,000 Elvis fans congregate in Parkes for 5 days in January
This year we went to the Parkes Elvis festival for the first time. This year’s theme was Love Me Tender from Elvis’ 1956 film. It ran from Wednesday 7th January to Sunday 11th January 2026. It was such an excellent time. Even though it was so hot we were out all day and night all 5 days at all the events. So much to see and do; even if you are sitting back watching a show or joining in some rock’n’roll dancing. The whole time was a blast! And there are buses to drop you anywhere for the whole 5 days for just $20.
The whole city of Parkes was celebrating Elvis. There was fantastic stalls at Cook Park, Elvis Impersonators all day and night at Cook Park, at pubs and clubs and Elvis buskers on street corners. There were vintage cars parked along the streets.
There is a museum full of Elvis memorabilia. It was full of very interesting items to see and read all the information.
On the Sunday the streets come alive with a huge Street Parade to celebrate the end of the Elvis festival – this is a must see.
So why is the festival in Parkes? Back in 1981, Parkes locals Bob and Anne Steel OAM opened Gracelands, a tribute style reception venue. It was a birthday party held at the venue in 1993, with costumes and a screening of Jailhouse Rock that proved how universal Elvis’ appeal was. From here the idea began and each year the numbers attending increase and the activities have increased
We have already booked our accomodation for next year’s Elvis festival, and I cannot wait. I highly recommend that if you ever get a chance to go, then do it.
Back soon!
Ridiculously Retro…..
Ridiculously Retro 