Today marks Elvis Presley's 85th birthday and although he is no longer with us, his legend lives on. People from across the world gather to commemorate The King on this day and Memphis has ramped up the celebrations.
A special four-day birthday bash has been prepared and Graceland is the center of attention as festivities begin.
Kicking things off is a cake cutting and proclamation of Elvis Presley Day by Memphis and Shelby County officials, followed by complimentary birthday cake and coffee served across the street at Vernon’s Smokehouse.
Then there will be an auction at 11 a.m. at the Guest House at Graceland in which fans and collectors from across the world can bid for numerous artifacts authenticated by Graceland Authenticated.
Priscilla Presley and music veteran and long-term Elvis associate Jerry Schilling will be present, offering photo opportunities to fans and families in the afternoon, and afterward there will be an evening tour of Graceland.
Wrapping up the day is a birthday bash that will see fans partying the night away to The King's classic hits.
Thursday will offer fans a sneak peek inside the Graceland Archives as event host Tom Brown and Graceland’s Vice President of Archives and Exhibits Angie Marchese share some gems with guests.
The highlight of the evening will be a special tribute concert in honor of Sun Studio. Taking to the stage is singer, songwriter and guitarist John Paul Keith who will perform songs by Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis and other artists born out of 706 Union.
Celebrations continue on Friday. The morning starts with an excursion down highway 78 to Elvis' birthplace, Tupelo. The "party on wheels" will visit the Elvis Presley Museum as well as Elvis' childhood church, the "Walk of Life" trail tracing Elvis' career and personal life, the "Elvis at 13" statue and the Elvis Story Wall and Fountain of Life.
There alsowill be a stop at Tupelo Hardware Company, which is where Elvis' mother Gladys purchased his first guitar as a gift.
Later in the day Priscilla will take guests on a personal tour of Graceland Mansion, sharing her favorite memories along the way.
Once the intimate tour is finished, the Memphis Symphony Orchestra will take to the stage to perform their annual Elvis Pops Concert.
Celebrations wind down on Saturday with a special concert experience that features on-screen performances from Elvis, which will be backed by a live band. Ending things off on a high note, Priscilla and Schilling will make special appearances at the event.
Zoe Papadakis ✉
Zoe Papadakis is a Newsmax writer based in South Africa with two decades of experience specializing in media and entertainment. She has been in the news industry as a reporter, writer and editor for newspapers, magazine and websites.
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