Wise men say only fools would miss this Friday’s mix of Elvis-related festivities.
The Second Annual Elvis Presley International Arts Festival and the South Main Arts Trolley Tour are joining forces, offering a variety of ways to honor the King before Elvis Week officially starts August 8th.
Events will center around the Memphis Heritage building in the South Main Historic Arts District. Here, the Graceland Archives will present the opening of an art show consisting completely of fan art sent to Graceland over the last 50 years. We’re talking blue suede shoes, painted velvet portraits — you name it. The show will run through August 23rd.
Outside, there will be dancing in the streets as musicians play Elvis tunes. South Main merchants will compete in a window-decorating contest and will offer wine samples. And, of course, an Elvis impersonator will give a live performance. If you’re feeling bold, try your luck in the Elvis karaoke contest. Graceland is donating the first prize. To wrap up the evening, at 9 p.m. in the vacant lot by Earnestine & Hazel’s, Fresh Air Flicks will screen King Creole, the 1958 Michael Curtiz movie starring Elvis himself.
Even if you’re not a die-hard Elvis fan, this event is for a good cause. The South Main Association is hosting the festivities to benefit Memphis Heritage and the Elvis Presley Charitable Foundation. U-u-huh!
Second Annual Elvis Presley International Arts Festival, Friday, July 28th, 6-9 p.m., South Main historic Arts District
