Each January, the quiet country town of Parkes transforms into a dazzling celebration of Elvis Presley. Fans travel from across Australia and beyond to relive the golden age of rock’n’roll. The streets fill with sequins, pompadours, and laughter as tribute artists perform and classic cars glide down Clarinda Street in a glittering parade of nostalgia.
Between shows, visitors can soak up the warmth of this welcoming community. Tour the CSIRO Parkes Observatory, affectionately called The Dish, to catch a fascinating glimpse into Australia’s space history. Add to that heritage buildings, vintage shops, and friendly locals, and you have a destination that shines long after the music fades. It’s the perfect getaway for over-50s travellers who appreciate good company, great tunes, and a little rock’n’roll magic in the outback.
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For five dazzling days every January, the Parkes Elvis Festival transforms this country town into a celebration of all things Presley. Over 25,000 visitors gather for live performances, parades, and over 200 themed events. The program is a joyful nod to the King's music and larger-than-life style, from the Viva Las Vegas street parade to tribute artist contests, car shows, and the iconic Renewal of Vows ceremony.
Travellers exploring New South Wales and ACT destinations often make Parkes their top stop for summer festivities. For those who’d like to enjoy it all in comfort, Fun Over 50 Holidays’ Parkes Elvis Festival tour combines the best of the event with regional highlights like Cowra’s Japanese Gardens and the scenic Central West. It’s a perfect mix of nostalgia, entertainment, and the warm country hospitality that makes this festival unforgettable.
The Parkes Elvis Festival began humbly in 1992 as a birthday tribute event at Gracelands restaurant. Its founders, Bob and Anne Steel, were die-hard Elvis fans who opened a rock’n’roll-themed diner and later dreamed up a festival to honour the King’s legacy. Today, the festival hosts over 200 events across five days and draws more than 25,000 visitors annually from Australia and abroad.
Parkes itself plays a starring role. The town lies on the vast plains of central NSW with a population of around 10,000, and its station serves as the terminus for the beloved Elvis Express train from Sydney. During festival season, the town embraces its musical identity through heritage walks, classic car displays, and local art appear beside impromptu stage sets. The festival has been officially recognised as a Foundation Event under the NSW Government’s tourism framework, affirming its cultural and economic significance for the region.
The Parkes Elvis Festival began in 1993 as a small birthday celebration for Elvis Presley and quickly became a community tradition. Locals embraced the theme, and it grew into one of Australia’s most iconic events, attracting thousands of visitors every January to celebrate the King’s music and legacy.
The Parkes Elvis Festival is held every January, coinciding with Elvis Presley’s birthday week. More than 25,000 visitors enjoy five fun-filled days of live music, parades, markets, and classic 1950s flair each year in the heart of New South Wales.
Yes. The King’s Castle Elvis Exhibit at the Henry Parkes Centre showcases an extensive collection of Elvis memorabilia, photographs, and costumes from passionate collectors. It’s a must-see stop for over-50s fans visiting Parkes year-round, not just during the festival.
Each year, the Parkes Elvis Festival takes on a fresh theme inspired by one of Elvis’s iconic films or musical eras — from Blue Hawaii to Viva Las Vegas. For over-50s travellers who grew up with the King’s hits, it’s a chance to relive the golden age of rock’n’roll in true retro style. The 2026 theme will be revealed closer to the event.
Travellers can easily reach Parkes by road, rail, or air. The town is about five hours west of Sydney and is well connected by coach and train services, including the famous Elvis Express, which departs from Central Station each January.
For those who prefer a thoroughly organised experience, Fun Over 50 Holidays’ Parkes Elvis Festival tour includes comfortable coach travel, premium stays, and exclusive access to festival highlights.
The largest Elvis festival is held annually in Porthcawl, Wales, attracting over 40,000 fans. However, Australia’s Parkes Elvis Festival is one of the biggest outside the U.S., known for its joyful spirit and welcoming community.
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