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3mo ago

Elvis Express Departs Sydney for Parkes Festival’s ‘Love Me Tender’ Edition

Organisers expect the five-day celebration to bring roughly 24,000 visitors to Parkes, doubling the town’s population.

A fan dressed as Elvis Presley waits for the departure of the Elvis Express train. (Bianca De Marchi/AAP PHOTOS)
An Elvis tribute artist entertains fans on board the Elvis Express from Sydney's Central Station, heading to the country town of Parkes for the annual Parkes Elvis Festival, in Sydney, Australia, January 7, 2026. REUTERS/Hollie Adams
An Elvis tribute artist waves to Elvis fans on board the Elvis Express from Sydney's Central Station, heading to the country town of Parkes for the annual Parkes Elvis Festival, in Sydney, Australia, January 7, 2026. REUTERS/Hollie Adams
An Elvis fan wait to board the Elvis Express from Sydney's Central Station, heading to the country town of Parkes for the annual Parkes Elvis Festival, in Sydney, Australia, January 7, 2026. REUTERS/Hollie Adams

Overview

  • The special Elvis Express train left Central Station carrying fans and tribute artists on a seven-hour, 357-kilometre journey to Parkes.
  • Live performances of Presley’s hits entertained passengers throughout the trip across themed carriages such as the Graceland Express and the Viva Las Vegas Line.
  • This year’s festival draws inspiration from Elvis Presley’s 1956 debut film Love Me Tender, with tribute shows, parades and town-wide events.
  • International attendees include UK-based tribute artist Louis Brown, who said he was eager to experience the festival after hearing strong reviews.
  • Performers reported challenging heat and heavy outfits during travel and preparations, with one artist noting 14-kilogram jumpsuits.