Over 26,000 people are set to shake, rattle and roll into the Australian outback for the 2019 Parkes Elvis Festival. From 9-13 January guests can catch up to 150 unique events. The festival began in 1993 with an audience of a couple of hundred. Now there is a worldwide audience of over 200 million fans. Guests will enjoy a celebration of all things 1950s, with Elvis in the spotlight. 2019’s theme is ‘All Shook Up’.
Getting there
Firstly, patrons can get the wheels rolling on their Elvis experience with two special train transport options heading into Parkes. The NSW TrainLink Elvis Express departs from Sydney. It includes onboard entertainment, a festival show bag with Ultimates Show ticket, complimentary snack and more. The Lachlan Valley Railway’s Blue Suede Express also departs from Sydney’s central station. On board this train passengers will receive a complimentary drink on arrival, continuous hot and cold canapes, finger food and snacks, in carriage entertainment from Elvis tribute artists and a ticket to the Ultimates Show. The Blue Suede Express will feature restored 1960’s air-conditioned carriages hauled by two suitably period diesel engines.
The Festival
“Elvis just has a way of connecting people. We see it every year at Parkes Elvis Festival and have had many people fall in love and come back years later to renew their wedding vows at the Festival,” said Parkes Elvis Festival Director, Cathy Treasure. “The love and dedication that surrounds the Elvis and Rockabilly scene is virtually unmatched by any other genre of music out there, and we can’t wait to help bring those passionate people together.”
Events
Additionally, a heap of events will be available for guests. On 12 January catch the Northparkes Mines Street Parade. Elvis themed floats featuring Elvis and Priscilla look-a-likes alongside vintage and classic cars, motorbikes and marching bands will cruise the streets. That night, catch the finals of the Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artists Contest. Leading Elvis tribute artists from across Australia will compete to represent Australia in Memphis during Elvis Week. Down at Cooke Park, the Festival Markets will showcase a wide array of merchandise. Everything including memorabilia, rock’n’roll wear, food and beverage stalls, and gifts will be on sale.
So slip into your blue suede shoes and get your rock ‘n’ roll on in Parkes for an event that will leave you ‘All Shook Up’
