The 19th annual Elvis Festival returns to Historic Main Street in Garden Grove on Sunday, Aug. 26 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Themed “Always on Our Minds” the festival, the only event of its kind in California, brings together Elvis fans and tribute artists who emulate the King of Rock and Roll in an all-day tribute near the anniversary of Presley’s death (Aug. 16, 1977.)
Though it has been nearly 40 years since his death, his devotees continue to show their undying love for “the King” and keep his legacy alive.
The 19th annual Elvis Festival returns to Historic Main Street in Garden Grove on Sunday, Aug. 26 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Themed “Always on Our Minds” the festival, the only event of its kind in California, brings together Elvis fans and tribute artists who emulate the King of Rock and Roll in an all-day tribute near the anniversary of Presley’s death (Aug. 16, 1977.)
Though it has been nearly 40 years since his death, his devotees continue to show their undying love for “the King” and keep his legacy alive.
Local Elvis fan clubs, including the Jailhouse Rockers of California and the Blue Suede Shoes Club, maintain a steady calendar of gatherings, concerts and dedicated events including the annual Elvis Festival.
Kirk Wall of Anaheim, the festival’s ambassador, returns to entertain and greet attendees. He sings like the King but also brings his fiddle to the stage, performing Elvis songs bluegrass-style with his band Krazy Kirk and the Hillbillies.
“It’s really about celebrating his life and legacy,” said Wall. “He continues to inspire and entertain even though he has been gone nearly 41 years.”
Other headliner Scot Bruce of Los Angeles and his band perform “The Early Years” of Presley’s rock and roll hits.
In addition, the event highlights Presley’s love of cars, particularly Cadillacs, with the King of Cadillacs Car Show for passenger cars dating to 1977. One of his other interests, motorcycles, will be part of a new event this year: The Hound Dog Motorcycle Ride and Bike Show presented by Lifestyle Cycles.
Other activities include a Portraits of Elvis Gallery Show and Contest at Black Umbrella Tattoo and Art Gallery, stilt walking Elvis and Priscilla, memorabilia and collectibles, Elvis Bingo and Bake Walk, Abbit the Average Elvis, rockabilly caricature artist and photo booth.
There will be special Elvis menu items from food trucks such as The Elvis Cupcake by Dreamy Creations, a two-time winner of Cupcake Wars on the Food Network, along with the variety of restaurants and shops. Among the restaurants is Azteca Restaurant, known for its Elvis-themed atmosphere with movie posters, photos and memorabilia donning the walls and the ceiling. Next door is Kaye’s Kitchen, which will feature a Grilled Peanut Butter and Banana Sandwich on the menu during the Festival.
Admission and parking are free. Limited VIP stage seating available at additional cost.
The festival on Historic Main Street is located between Garden Grove Boulevard and Acacia Parkway in Garden Grove. Use the address of 12911 Main St., Garden Grove on GPS or other map/directions locators. Parking is available at adjacent lots of Concorde and Coastline College.
More information is available on the 19th annual Elvis Festival page on Facebook, by sending an email to elvisfestival@yahoo.com, or by calling 714-267-4657.
