Parkes Elvis Festival: A Rock 'n' Roll Celebration Like No Other

Easy Come, Easy Go

The 32nd Annual Parkes Elvis Festival is in full swing, bringing the town of Parkes, New South Wales, to life with the unmistakable sound of Elvis Presley’s greatest hits. Running until Sunday, January 12, 2025, the festival attracts Elvis enthusiasts from all over the world, converging on this small country town to pay tribute to the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll. What began as a modest gathering of fans in 1993 has since blossomed into one of Australia’s most iconic and beloved events, drawing more than 25,000 attendees and creating a truly unique atmosphere where the King’s legacy is celebrated at every turn.

The Heart of the Festival: Elvis Tribute Artists

One of the main attractions of the Parkes Elvis Festival is the abundance of Elvis tribute artists, who take to a variety of stages throughout the town, performing in clubs, pubs, churches, parks, and even on the street. These talented performers capture the charisma, energy, and signature moves of Elvis Presley, drawing crowds of all ages eager to see The King brought to life.

The festival offers an incredible variety of performances, from tribute concerts at large venues to intimate performances at local pubs. Whether you’re sipping a drink at one of the festival’s pop-up bars or enjoying the lively energy of a street performance, you’re bound to find yourself swept away by the nostalgia and excitement.

Pubs and Clubs: The Perfect Places to Catch an Elvis Show

Elvis Club Show

Parkes is home to several lively pubs and clubs that host nightly Elvis tribute performances. Whether you're at the Parkes Services Club or the Cambridge Hotel, you’ll find a full slate of tribute artists performing throughout the evening, recreating the iconic sounds of Elvis’ greatest hits. These venues provide the perfect atmosphere for fans to dance and sing along to songs like Hound Dog, Jailhouse Rock, and Suspicious Minds.

One of the highlights of the festival is the Elvis Tribute Artist Competition, where some of the best impersonators from around the world battle it out for the coveted title. Held in the heart of town, this event offers a front-row seat to the King’s magic, with tribute artists performing all of Elvis' iconic looks and musical styles—from his early rockabilly days to his later Vegas-era performances.

Churches and Parks: A Serene Twist to the Elvis Experience

For something a little different, some of the festival's tribute performances take place in churches and parks, adding a unique twist to the Elvis experience. In the tranquil setting of St. George’s Anglican Church, for instance, tribute artists perform Elvis’ gospel hits—songs like How Great Thou Art and Crying in the Chapel—in an intimate setting that resonates deeply with both Elvis fans and newcomers to his music. These special performances provide a serene and spiritual connection to the King, showcasing a more reflective side of his musical legacy.

In Cooke Park, free live performances take place throughout the day and night. These outdoor concerts bring an added layer of enjoyment, where visitors can relax with a picnic or stroll through the park while enjoying Elvis’ tunes played by tribute artists and local performers. It’s a laid-back, fun experience that offers a great way to soak in the festive atmosphere.

Art and Photography: Celebrating Elvis’ Iconic Image

While the music may take center stage, the Parkes Elvis Festival is also a fantastic celebration of Elvis Presley’s cultural impact through art and photography. Exhibitions showcasing Elvis-inspired art and iconic images from his career are displayed at various locations throughout the town, providing a visual feast for festival-goers.

One of the standout exhibitions is the Elvis Photography Exhibition held at the Parkes Library and Cultural Centre. The exhibition brings together works by some of the world’s best photographers, capturing Elvis in moments both on and off stage. From intimate backstage shots to dramatic concert photographs, the collection offers a unique insight into the man behind the legend. For fans of Elvis and photography, this exhibition is an absolute must-see, providing an opportunity to admire the King in new and dynamic ways.

The Elvis Art Exhibition also offers a chance to experience Elvis through the eyes of local and international artists. From pop art-style portraits to more traditional renderings, the art on display at the festival captures the enduring appeal of Elvis Presley. Visitors can purchase prints and original works, making for an unforgettable souvenir of the event. The Exhibition is located in the Uniting Church Hall. 

A Vibrant Atmosphere: Fun, Music, and Community

McDonalds Elvis Display

While the main focus of the Parkes Elvis Festival is the music and the tribute artists, there’s so much more to experience. The festival's energy is contagious, with a sense of joy and excitement filling the air as fans from all over the world come together to celebrate the King.

The main streets of Parkes are lined with vibrant decorations, including giant Elvis cutouts and murals that bring the town to life. Everywhere you look, there’s something new and exciting to discover—whether it’s an impromptu performance by a local Elvis fan, a pop-up merchandise stall selling Elvis memorabilia, or a quirky event like the Elvis Dog Show, where furry friends are dressed in Elvis-inspired costumes for some fun and laughter.

For fans looking to dive deeper into the Elvis experience, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved. Throughout the festival, Elvis-themed dance lessons are held, where you can learn to dance like the King himself. Whether it’s shaking your hips to Jailhouse Rock or learning the moves to Viva Las Vegas, these dance sessions are a great way to get into the swing of things and have fun.

There’s also a range of Elvis-themed competitions, such as the Best-Dressed Elvis Competition, where festival-goers can strut their stuff in their best Elvis-inspired outfits, and the Elvis Look-Alike Contest, where fans can channel their inner Elvis for the chance to win a prize.

An Economic Boost and a Community Celebration

While the festival is a world-class celebration of Elvis, it’s also an event that has a profound impact on the local community. In 2024, the Parkes Elvis Festival injected a remarkable $4 million into the local economy, providing a significant boost to local businesses, including accommodation, restaurants, and retailers.

For the people of Parkes, the festival is a major source of pride and excitement. The entire town gets involved in the celebrations, and the warm, welcoming atmosphere makes it easy for visitors to feel at home. From the friendly locals to the bustling markets, it’s clear that Parkes embraces its role as the Elvis capital of Australia.

A Must-See Event for Elvis Fans and Music Lovers

Whether you’re a lifelong fan of Elvis or new to his music, the Parkes Elvis Festival offers a fun, immersive experience that will leave you with lasting memories. With concerts, tribute performances, art exhibitions, and a lively, rock ‘n’ roll atmosphere, there’s something for everyone at this incredible event. But more than just a celebration of Elvis’ music, the festival is a reminder of the power of community, culture, and the joy of music that transcends time.

Don’t miss your chance to be part of this extraordinary festival. With just a few days left to experience the fun, music, and magic of the King, pack your bags and head to Parkes before the festival wraps up on January 12, 2025.

https://www.parkeselvisfestival.com.au/