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- Arts & Entertainment
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- United States
- Date change rule:
- Every August 8 through 16
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Elvis Week electrifies Memphis each August, commemorating the life and legacy of Elvis Presley. This annual pilgrimage draws fans globally to Graceland for concerts, fan gatherings, and heartfelt tributes. Dive into the King’s world, explore his music, and celebrate his enduring impact on pop culture.
Want to sponsor Elvis Week? Learn how
Expected Elvis Week Deals
While official 2027 promotions are still under wraps, Elvis Week historically sees a surge in themed merchandise and special offers. Expect Graceland to offer package deals on tours and events, while local Memphis businesses like Sun Studio and Arcade Restaurant often have special menu items or discounts. Retailers such as Walmart and Target typically stock up on Elvis-themed apparel, vinyl, and collectibles. Online stores like Shop Graceland and Amazon will likely feature exclusive bundles and limited-edition releases. Keep an eye out for discounts on travel and accommodation from partners like Expedia and Hotels.com. We will update this page with confirmed live deals as August approaches.
Platform Guide for Elvis Week
Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #ElvisWeek. Share your favorite Elvis outfits, Graceland pilgrimage photos, or tribute artist performances.
TikTok
Tag @www.nationaltoday.com and use #ElvisWeek. Film your best Elvis impression, dance moves, or a tour of your Elvis memorabilia collection.
Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #ElvisWeek. Share memories, join fan groups, and discuss your favorite Elvis songs and movies.
Elvis Week Hero
Elvis Presley
History of Elvis Week
Elvis Presley — widely known as the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll, was one of the most dominant and famous performers of the 20th century. Rising from humble beginnings, this talented teenager was picked up by Sun Records after a producer heard his audition tape. The rest is history.
He was already a very flamboyant personality before he began his journey in the world of music; he wore colorful clothes and had relatively long hair. His on-stage persona began to emerge in 1954 when he began playing with blues singer Arthur Crudup’s ‘That’s All Right Mama.’
Presley dominated the music charts and is widely acknowledged as the person who brought the age of rock ‘n’ roll to the U.S. He soon became the idol of that decade, appealing to all genders and ages of people around the globe. His television appearances on shows like Ed Sullivan’s Sunday night variety show brought in record audiences. He inspired thousands of musicians — John Lennon, Bob Dylan, Prince, Jerry Lee Lewis, Bruce Springsteen, and more, many of whom continue to be Presley fans. His star was flying high. It was at this time, in 1958, that it was announced that he had been drafted into the U.S. Army; he served for two years.
Upon returning, he continued to produce hits, some of which had been recordings made before he served in the army. He soon ventured into movies as well, turning them into box office hits. He even recorded the soundtracks for these movies, although many contend his solo music was some of his best work.
By 1968, his star power had been slightly overtaken by newer artists like the Rolling Stones, the Beatles, and others. Over the next few years, he released new singles and played concerts again. He was once again the top attraction in the U.S. for the next decade. He died of a heart attack the night before he was to start another concert tour, in 1977. Mourners arrived at Graceland — Presley’s home and where he passed — from around the world to pay tribute almost as soon as the news got out. Since his passing, the gathering continues in a tradition called Elvis Week. Held in August, mourners and fans make their way to Graceland in a tribute to Presley’s life.
Elvis Week timeline
Presley releases his first record, “That's All Right,” and it is a huge hit.
Presley debuts in an American musical Western film and it is the only one in which he plays a historical figure.
He is drafted into the U.S. Army and serves as a soldier in Germany, leaving the army after two years with sergeant stripes.
He wins his first Grammy award in the Best Sacred Performance category for the gospel-infused track, ‘How Great Thou Art.’
Presley plays to sold-out venues in Las Vegas, Lake Tahoe, and New York, giving nearly 1,100 performances.
Presley passes away from a heart attack at his home in Graceland, and Elvis Week has been celebrated in this month ever since, to pay homage to this great man.
How Businesses Can Celebrate Elvis Week
Local businesses in Memphis and beyond can capitalize on Elvis Week by hosting themed events. Restaurants might offer ‘Elvis Burgers’ or ‘Fried Peanut Butter and Banana Sandwiches.’ Bars can host Elvis karaoke nights or play his greatest hits all week. Retailers can curate collections of vintage-inspired clothing, records, or memorabilia. Consider partnering with local tribute artists for live performances to draw in crowds. Use #ElvisWeek in promotions to connect with the global fan base.
Elvis Week FAQs
When is Elvis Week?
In 2026, Elvis Week runs from Saturday, August 8, through Sunday, August 16. This annual event draws fans from around the world to Memphis to celebrate the King’s enduring legacy.
How many people attend Elvis Week?
Elvis Week typically draws tens of thousands of fans to Memphis, Tennessee, each year. The Candlelight Vigil alone can see crowds exceeding 30,000, making it a massive gathering for devoted followers.
What happens during Elvis Week?
The week is packed with events, including concerts, panel discussions, fan club meetings, and the emotional Candlelight Vigil at Graceland. Expect tribute artist performances and opportunities to explore Elvis’s home and exhibits.
Is Elvis Week always held in August?
Yes, Elvis Week is consistently held in August, specifically centered around the anniversary of Elvis Presley’s death on August 16, 1977. This timing ensures fans can gather for the solemn Candlelight Vigil.
Elvis Week Activities
Listen to his old hits
Have a rock 'n' rolling day by listening to some evergreen Elvis Presley hits like ‘Jailhouse Rock,’ ‘Hound Dog,’ ‘Love Me Tender,’ and ‘Mystery Train.’ Add a shake and shimmy, and a little dance-off, to truly channel the King.
Check out his movies
Watch one of the 30+ movies Elvis starred in, like “Blue Hawaii,” “Jailhouse Rock,” and “Change of Habit.” Because all of these are characterized by light comedy-romance interspersed with musical interludes, they are dubbed “Elvis movies.”
Hold your own candlelight vigil
Who says you have to visit Graceland to pay tribute to this powerful icon? Stay home, and have your own candlelight vigil on the anniversary of his death. Take a moment to remember the legacy he left behind and celebrate the gifts he has left us.
5 Fun Facts About Graceland
He bought Graceland at a young age
Presley was only 22 when he purchased the Graceland mansion for $102,500.
He moved in after his family did
Since Presley was busy filming Jailhouse Rock, his parents and grandmother actually moved into Graceland five weeks before he did.
Named for the original owner
Graceland was named for the original owner's — the Moore family — aunt, Grace Toof.
What's in the kitchen?
Presley wanted the kitchen to always be stocked with banana pudding, ingredients for meatloaf, shredded coconut, hot dogs, and gum, among other items.
Bruce Springsteen broke into Graceland
Upon learning that his idol lived close to where he had just given a concert, Springsteen broke into Graceland to meet Presley, who was unfortunately not home at the time.
Why We Love Elvis Week
His fan base is alive and kicking
And we love meeting people who still adore the King. It's almost as if they are a mishmash of an Elvis Presley family.
Best artists, music, and people
The best tribute artists from around the globe put on incredible shows, and multiple celebrities drop in to pay their respects. In 2021, Priscilla Presley confirmed her appearance, and who knows who will partake each year?
A fitting tribute to his life and legacy
He inspired an entire generation of people and influenced the rock ‘n roll genre. Without him, maybe we wouldn't have so many inspired artists. Elvis Week, apart from the fun, honors and remembers the man who captured an entire world's interest.
Elvis Week dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | August 8–16 | Saturday–Sunday |
| 2027 | August 8–16 | Sunday–Monday |
| 2028 | August 8–16 | Tuesday–Wednesday |
| 2029 | August 8–16 | Wednesday–Thursday |
| 2030 | August 8–16 | Thursday–Friday |
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