City: Memphis, TN

Category: Annual Events & Festivals

Telephone: (901) 332-3322, (800) 238-2000

Address: 3734 Elvis Presley Boulevard

Description: At a time when Memphians are hitting back-to-school sales or looking to escape the heat, thousands of Elvis Presley fans are pouring into Memphis from all over the world to commemorate the anniversary of the King’s death. It has been more than 30 years since Elvis left the building, but the flame still burns bright in the hearts of his fans. Usually about 30,000 to 35,000 visitors come through Graceland that week. The highlight is the candlelight vigil in front of Graceland Mansion the evening of August 15. The street is closed off that night, as mourners line up for their turn to walk up the driveway of Graceland, candle in hand, to pay their respects at his grave in the Meditation Garden. Everyone should see this ritual once, but remember, it’s as serious as church for many, so if you go, be respectful to the true faithful who’ve saved all year to be here for this moment. Dozens of other events take place during the week, many of them sponsored by Graceland, such as Elvis—The Concert. This virtual-reality show at the Mid-South Coliseum features vintage footage of Elvis singing, along with former band members who perform the music live. “Tribute artists” from all over the world compete in what most of us would call an Elvis-impersonator contest, which runs for several days. There’s no charge to visit the grounds of Graceland Mansion on vigil night, and charges vary for other events. You’ll find a calendar of Elvis Week events and ticket information in local newspapers.