The 32nd Parkes Elvis Festival was one filled with emotion - lots of love, laughter and some tears.
Looking back on the five days of the festival that ran from Wednesday to Sunday last week organisers said they’re absolutely thrilled with how the event ran and the feedback to match.
While the Easy Come Easy Go theme made it tricky for costume ideas - though there was much respect to those wearing wet suits and the like in 30-degree heat - thousands of fans continue to embrace the ‘dressing-up’ culture of the festival.
Parkes Shire Council is still yet to announce their estimated final numbers for this year's festival.
The first event to kick-off this world class festival was the Wall of Fame and though it’s been around since 1995, not in the form that was presented this year.
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And festival goers knew it.
For the first time in 30 years the ‘wall’ was moved to a new location at the Parkes Visitor Information Centre where an exciting new attraction now stands - life-size replica Graceland Gates.
Wanting to witness the beginning of a new era in this unique event, organisers counted the biggest crowd they’ve ever seen at the wall.
It all incorporated inducting Australian singer and entertainer Frankie J Holden on the wall, cutting a ribbon to officially open the Gate, unveiling the Hollywood-style stars for past Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist winners and a 90th birthday cake.
Another major highlight and first for the festival was having three international headline acts - Cote Deonath, Emilio Santoro and Riley Jenkins - for the Feature Concert Series.
And there was just something special about this trio.
Fans and spectators could see it on stage and when they were out and about.
“After their stint at the Parkes Elvis Festival it is clear to see why we affectionately refer to them as the dynamic trio,” said Parkes Shire Council artist liaison Charlene Kaden.
“All three know each other from touring other world Elvis competitions so there was a genuine feeling of camaraderie and admiration among them that really shone through during their performances on stage.
“They had each other's backs at all times to the degree that watching them together made you feel like they were brothers.
“When Riley was unable to perform his first night show, Cote and Emilio were able to cover his set, ensuring the show went on and their fans were not disappointed.”
Ms Kaden said all three artists were generous with their time, getting involved with locals and fans alike.
They were accommodating with media requests, and took the time to engage with local personalities on social media to further promote Parkes and the festival.
“After each performance all three artists made sure to spend time with their fans, chatting, taking photos, and signing autographs, ensuring energy levels remained high after the show so the party could continue into the night,” Ms Kaden said.
“Having such young artists headline the festival really injected a sense of energy into their performances, which appealed to a wide range of audience members across the festival.
“In addition to being talented artists they were lovely human beings who appreciated everything that was done for them during the festival.
“We would love to have all three artists back for the 2026 festival, and from all conversations we’ve had with fans, they all feel the same way.”
Ms Kaden said the men all agreed the Parkes Elvis Festival is unlike any other festival.
(Stay tuned: Because these three stars were so much fun to have at this year's festival, we'll be uploading a special 'behind the scenes' of their photo shoot at the Dish, which always takes place on the Friday morning of the festival. The shoot is Miss Priscilla's - Gracey Denham-Jones - first duty on her big itinerary over the five days. These photos are courtesy of Keith Turk from the Parkes Camera Club).
Festival favourites such as the street parade, free Cooke Park entertainment, the arrival of the Elvis Express, Miss Priscilla Dinner, Gospel Service and Renewal of Vows are always big drawcards for fans too.
But the festival ended on a sombre note this year, paying tribute to one festival fan and local Elvis impersonator who was missing.
The late Bernie Peri who died last year was honoured during the busking finals on Sunday afternoon, a competition he regularly took part in.
The theme for the 2026 Parkes Elvis Festival is Love Me Tender.
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