Memphis makes its mark in historical tourism
Elvis Week 2017 will mark the 40th anniversary of Elvis’ passing and Graceland is gearing up for one heck of a celebration; the largest gathering ever of Elvis fans from around the world in a nine-day celebration of Elvis’ life.
But he’s not the only king being honoured this year in Memphis.
Trade media joined Memphis Tourism’s reps and even very special guest Barry, the owner of Corky’s BBQ in Memphis, to share some stories on why the destination is so coveted, and what visitors can expect in 2017.
Spinning round the O Bar & Dining restaurant to capture a 360-degree view of Sydney, the event was a huge success, complete with classic Memphis tunes and a few old fashioned’s to wrap up the afternoon.
Memphis, known as the Birthplace of Rock ‘n’ Roll and a city with pivotal ties to the American Civil Rights movement, has unveiled plans to honor two pioneers of music and social justice during milestone anniversaries taking place in 2017 and 2018.
From Civil Rights icon Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. to Elvis Presley who started a music revolution – history and culture are one and the same in Memphis. These music and Civil Rights stories mark significant anniversaries over the next 12 months and will be remembered with special events and exhibits that serve to honour two great icons in American history.
Events to honour the King at Elvis Week include appearances by celebrities and musicians, The Auction at Graceland, Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest Finals, fan club events, charity fundraisers and more.
This will be the first Elvis Week since Graceland’s major expansion, which includes the AAA Four-Diamond Guest House at Graceland resort hotel and the new, multi-million dollar entertainment and exhibit complex, Elvis Presley’s Memphis.
Tickets for all Elvis Week events are now on sale, with most events will take place at the new Graceland Soundstage, a state-of-the-art production and performance space in the heart of Graceland’s new entertainment and exhibit complex, Elvis Presley’s Memphis, directly across the street from Graceland Mansion.
A special highlight of Elvis Week will be the 40th Anniversary Celebration Concert Event at the FedExForum in downtown Memphis on August 16, 2017, Elvis: The Wonder of You. In this new, live concert experience, a symphony orchestra performs live on stage with Elvis on the big screen.
The concert will feature a special personal appearance by Priscilla Presley and other surprise guests. The critically-acclaimed production, which has sold out arenas across the world since last November, is inspired by the award-winning, chart-topping album releases “If I Can Dream” and “The Wonder of You,” which features remastered vocals of the king’s voice and new orchestral arrangements of some of his biggest hits.
The cornerstone event, the Candlelight Vigil, will begin on Tuesday, August 15, at 8:30 p.m. CDT at Graceland’s front gate. Elvis music sets the tone of the evening as fans walk up the driveway to the Meditation Garden.
This event lasts throughout the night as thousands of participants gather on Elvis Presley Boulevard listening to music, remembering Elvis and enjoying the memorials that are created by fans along the street.
As for the historical and monumental honouring of Dr Martin Luther King, travellers to Memphis can expect a year of special events in the lead up to the 50th anniversary of Dr Martin Luther King’s assassination on 4 April 1968 in Memphis at the Lorraine Motel, now the National Civil Rights Museum.
Many of the activities that celebrate King’s legacy during the year long event are centred around the National Civil Rights Museum and the Lorraine Motel.
The landmark museum in Memphis chronicles the American Civil Rights movement where comprehensive exhibits showcase several hundred artifacts and interactive media displays cover five centuries, from slavery in America and the Civil War to the 20th-century Civil Rights movement and modern-day issues.
The MLK50:Where Do We Go From Here commemoration at the National Civil Rights Museum reflects on the past, evaluates the present, and proposes solutions for the future on the issues Dr. King was most concerned about during the last years of his life — poverty, fair wages, affordable and safe housing, quality education, justice and peace — as the method to achieve positive social change.
Each year the National Civil Rights Museum commemorates the tragic event that occurred on the balcony of the Lorraine Motel at 6:01pm. Plans are being designed for a special commemorative ceremony from the balcony on 4 April 2018, and will include keynote speakers, special presentations, and the laying of the wreath.
Full details of events and activities surrounding the 50th anniversary will be announced in coming weeks on the special commemorative website www.MLK50.civilrightsmuseum.org.
Email the Travel Weekly team at traveldesk@travelweekly.com.au
Dr Martin Luther King elvis week 2017 memphisLatest News
Princess Cruises unveils Sanctuary Collection, Star Princess to sail Alaska in 2026
From the sunny port of Barcelona, the Sun Princess welcomed worldwide media aboard for an update on what’s new and what’s next for Princess Cruises today, 23 April. The setting also doubled as the official naming ceremony for Princess’ first sphere class ship which was live streamed around the ship for all guests to enjoy. […]
Collette special offers across peak northern summer season
Global tour operator Collette has announced a series of special offers on selected dates across a range of tours in the peak northern hemisphere 2024 summer season. Greece The offers include ‘Greece & Its Islands’ features classics such as the Parthenon as well as the picturesque islands of Mykonos and Santorini. A saving of $700 […]
Air India and All Nippon codeshare between the two countries
Air India and All Nippon Airways have signed a codeshare agreement connecting their networks. The new commercial partnership will provide more travel opportunities for customers of both India’s leading global airline and the largest Japan’s largest carrier. Effective from 23rd May, the Air India and All Nippon Airways agreement will see passengers fly to their […]
A&K offers minimum 18 weeks paid parental leave
A&K Travel Group will now provide a minimum of 18 weeks paid parental leave for both care-givers, setting a new standard for the travel industry. By providing 18 weeks of paid time off for all new parents, regardless of gender, A&K Travel Group is not only enabling parents to spend valuable time with their newborns […]
NH Hotel Group rebrands as Minor Hotels Europe & Americas
Hang around the bends of the hotels. We imagine they will be full of a lot of branded content.
Scenic Eclipse II – the business of creating unforgettable life-changing memories
These cruise brothers from another mother offer a view of cruising on Scenic Eclipse II that is poles apart.
MSC builds new hospital ship with Mercy Ships
If you want to read a story that puts a smile on your face then this is the one for you.
“I peed on myself watching this” – Social media users squirm at Royal Caribbean’s Harmony of The Seas 55ft dive video
TW is not responsible for any involuntary actions your body might have after watching this video.
FLIGHT REVIEW: Qantas Boeing 787 Dreamliner business class
The real bonus is you're unlikely to be around screaming children. Hoorah!
Traveltek offers travel agents new rapid deploy cruise website
As always, if you have any issue with the platform, just turn it off and on again.
Experience whale watching & classical music at the Australian Festival of Chamber Music in Townsville
Disappointedly, the whales do not start singing in tune with the orchestra. Opportunity missed.
Fond, very Fond. London hotel famed for James Bond link adds ‘Classic Comforts’ lunch menu
James Bond author Ian Fleming was so fond if this hotel, it inspired the legendary phrase ‘shaken, not stirred’.
What sets Eclipse Travel apart with Africa expert Hilary Dubyk: Travel Weekly TV
If you want to know more about Africa, then Hilary Dubyk is your person.
Surge in Australians visiting Japan
Feel like all of your friends have just returned from Europe? Now it's Japan.
Seabourn announces Western Kimberley Traditional Owners as Godparents of Seabourn Pursuit
Seabourn has named Western Kimberley Traditional Owners, the Wunambal Gaambera, as Godparents of the ultra-luxury purpose-built Seabourn Pursuit. It is the first cruise line to appoint Traditional Owners as godparents of a ship. Seabourn Pursuit embarks on its inaugural season in the Kimberley region this June. The naming ceremony will take place on Seabourn Pursuit’s […]
Sydney named 17th best place to work remotely
If you struggle to get a seat within Sydney's coffee shops, you now know why.
W Melbourne grows sales team
We appreciate the thought that has gone into this team photo.
Cunard welcomes new ship Queen Anne
This might be the most impressive ship handover in ship handover history.
Intrepid Travel appoints Yvette Thompson as general manager sales & marketing ANZ
It isn't end-of-day Monday and Yvette Thompson has already nabbed herself an impressive promotion.
Anna Fawcett re-joins Global Touring in newly-created APAC role
With such an impressive CV, Global Touring is no doubt thrilled to have Fawcett back.
“We know our response has been far from perfect” – Emirates’ open letter following Dubai flooding
If you also need to write an apology letter, then this is a pretty good template.
Malolo Island Resort opens brand new Spa
Fiji’s Malolo Island has added another string to its bow – opening its $1.3 million day spa on Thursday, 18th April 2024. (Lead Image: matriarch Rosie Whitton with spa staff) Located at the edge of the resort’s luscious patch of tropical rainforest, the new “Leilani’s Spa” adds another level of elevated experiences to Malolo’s already […]
Virgin Australia’s HILARIOUS second instalment of the ‘Bring on Wonderful’ campaign
We don't use the word 'hilarious' lightly, but this is worthy of the title.
Visit Sunshine Coast reveals new brand identity
If you were looking for another reason to visit the Sunshine Coast then this is it.
Sofitel launches brand campaign starring Sex Education’s Gillian Anderson
We can confirm the content of this video is less spicy than Sex Education.
Holland America Line gives agents the chance to visit Alaska on 11-day Famil
If you've ever wanted to see a Polar Bear (and who doesn't?), now is your time.
More than 65 luxury agents gather in Sydney for Best of the Best dinner
This looks like a fabulous do. We imagine there may be a few (or maybe 65) sore heads this morning!
Globally-renowned chefs gather for Vivid Food 2024
As a human, we agree that food is a fundamental part of the human experience. Some might say the most fundamental.
Air New Zealand returns to Hobart and Seoul
If you notice an uptick in Kiwis making their way through the Mona, you know why.
European Waterways targets multi-generational families with ‘floating villa’ deal
The jury is still out on whether spending a week on a 'floating villa' with family is a hell or a paradise.
Luxury Escapes launches ‘sail away’ sale
Rest assured, you'll be getting your 'sails' and 'sales' mixed up for the rest of the day.
Rex-owned National Jet Express adds weekly charter between Brisbane and Orange
This is for mining and civil contractors, so please, put your holiday attire away.
Let the games begin. Viking introduces eye-watering benefits for the industry’s top 10 advisors
Did someone say 'trip to Venice'? Hold my coat, this one is far too good to miss!
Best friends or frenemies? What is the REAL relationship between sales and marketing?
We can all stop fighting over the corner office because our mothers were right - we are all important in our own way.
The Walshe Group Announces Two Key Appointments
What we really want to know is whether they got joint or separate welcome parties.
FAMIL: Agents explore the delights of Mauritius on 7-day tour
Go green with envy as you read this fabulous itinerary! Time to book that second honeymoon.