Reviewed by: Callie Morrison
5 reasons you’ll love the Tupelo Elvis Festival this June 6-9
Reading time: 4 minutes
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While Birmingham is known as the birthplace of icons like actress Courtney Cox and national leaders like Condoleezza Rice, Tupelo, Mississippi has a pretty significant celebrity to lay claim to—Elvis Presley.
The King of Rock ‘n Roll was born just a two-hour drive from the ‘Ham, and you can celebrate his impact on music this summer.
Keep reading for all the fun you can have at the Tupelo Elvis Festival this June 6-9 and how you can get your tickets now.
1. Celebrate Elvis in his hometown
The City of Tupelo is rolling out the blue carpet for three days of all things Elvis. Where’s the best place to start? Taking a tour of the town, of course!
Whether you opt for a driving tour or the self-guided bike tour, you’ll explore 14 locations central to The King’s early life, like:
- Elvis’ Birthplace, the tiny two-room house built by Elvis’ father with just a $180 budget.
- Tupelo Hardware Company, where Elvis bought his first guitar. They still sell guitars today.
- The Lyric Theatre, where Elvis defied segregation laws to sit with his African-American friends and where he reportedly had his first kiss.
2. Eat like a king
There are over 200 restaurants in Tupelo, including some of Elvis’ favorites.
From Elvis-inspired coffees and cocktails to some delicious burgers—you’ll have no issues finding something tasty at places like:
- Cafe 212, where you can try Elvis’ favorite fried peanut butter and banana sandwich
- Crave, a dessert and coffee bistro featuring Elvis-inspired menu items
- Johnnie’s Drive-In, where you’ll find classic drive-in spots and an Elvis-themed booth.
- BONUS: You need to try a “doughburger” before you leave! They’re hamburger patties with butter, flour + eggs added to the batter for a greasier, more delicious smash burger.
3. Concerts featuring world-class Elvis Tribute Artists
No Elvis festival would be complete without the man himself. That’s where Tribute Artists come in, bringing you the sounds and stylings of The King all weekend long.
Performances are slated at the Cadence Bank Arena. If you can’t attend the entire festival but would like to attend a concert, you can buy tickets to individual shows.
4. Stax Museum Pop-Up Experience
The Memphis-based Stax Museum of American Soul Music is rolling into Tupelo for two days, setting up shop for an Elvis pop-up exhibit.
The illustrious museum is named after a record label, the one where Elvis recorded hits like “Promised Land” and “It’s Midnight.”
Organizers say they will have vinyl records for sale, Tribute Artist meet + greets, dance parties, giveaways and more.
The pop-up will be set up in different locations:
- Friday, 11AM-2PM: Tupelo Fairpark
- Saturday, 2-4PM: Spring Street
5. Queen’s Reward Meadery
If you want to squeeze in another unique-to-Tupelo experience before you leave, Queen’s Reward Meadery should be at the top of your list. It’s the first and only meadery in the state of Mississippi, using 100% locally sourced honey to make mead.
Immerse yourself in the tasting experience, buy mead by the glass or indulge in the crowd-favorite mead slushie.
Need somewhere to stay?
- Hotel Tupelo is the city’s newest boutique hotel just steps from the festival fun.
- Hilton Garden Inn is also within walking distance of the festival.
- Full list of hotels in Tupelo.
The birthplace of Elvis is just a two-hour drive from Birmingham. Buy your tickets to the Tupelo Elvis Festival now.
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