Every holiday season, Graceland, the home of Elvis Presley, transforms into a dazzling showcase of Christmas lights, decorations, and festive cheer. For 2019, the Graceland team unveiled a decorating schedule that not only celebrates the King of Rock 'n' Roll's favorite holiday but also ensures visitors have an unforgettable experience. Here are five festive facts about Graceland's 2019 Christmas decorating schedule:
The Schedule Begins Early
The 2019 decorating journey at Graceland started in October, way before the typical holiday season. This early start was to ensure that:
- Elaborate decorations can be meticulously planned and executed.
- Visitors can experience the holiday magic earlier, extending the festive season.
🕰️ Note: Elvis was known to love Christmas, which is why Graceland goes the extra mile to decorate early.
A Kaleidoscope of Lights and Themes
Graceland boasts themes that change every year, with 2019 no exception:
- The Blue Christmas theme highlighted the iconic Elvis song, with blue lights and decorations.
- The Living Room had over 16,000 lights, creating an ethereal glow.
- The Jungle Room was adorned with tropical-themed holiday decor, blending Elvis’s eclectic taste with the season.
| Area | Theme | Description |
|---|---|---|
| The Living Room | Blue Christmas | Over 16,000 lights, highlighting the iconic Elvis song. |
| The Jungle Room | Tropical Christmas | Tropical-themed decorations with a holiday twist. |
| Elvis’s Bedroom | Classic Christmas | Traditional decorations, reminiscent of Elvis’s personal Christmas flair. |
🎄 Note: The themes are inspired by Elvis’s love for Christmas, his music, and his eclectic taste.
The Army of Decorators
To bring this vision to life, a dedicated team of:
- 40+ decorators who work around the clock.
- Volunteers from local community groups helping to add personal touches.
The synergy of experienced decorators with those who love Elvis results in a unique atmosphere that captures the spirit of the season and Elvis’s legacy.
The Elvis Christmas Tree
The centerpiece of Graceland’s holiday decor is the massive Elvis Christmas tree:
- Rising to a height of 15 feet, it’s a focal point of grandeur.
- Adorned with over 3,000 ornaments, including many Elvis-themed ones.
🎅 Note: The tree often includes nods to Elvis’s movie roles, music, and personal life, making it a unique spectacle.
Interactive Holiday Attractions
Beyond static decorations, Graceland added interactive elements:
- A Christmas tram tour for visitors to view the sprawling lights from the comfort of a festive vehicle.
- “Santa on Wheels,” where Santa parades around Graceland in a brightly lit golf cart.
- Special concerts, featuring Elvis’s Christmas classics, performed by live orchestras and tribute artists.
In summarizing this festive extravaganza, Graceland in 2019 showcased not only a homage to Elvis Presley's holiday spirit but also his legacy of bringing joy through music and celebration. Each year, the mansion transforms into a winter wonderland, combining traditional Christmas elements with Elvis's personal style, creating an experience that resonates with fans and holiday enthusiasts alike.
When does the decorating at Graceland begin?
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The decoration process at Graceland for the holiday season starts in October, allowing plenty of time to create the festive atmosphere.
How many people are involved in decorating Graceland?
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Over 40 decorators, along with volunteers, work tirelessly to ensure the home is decked in holiday cheer.
What is unique about Graceland’s Christmas tree?
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Graceland’s Christmas tree is 15 feet tall, adorned with over 3,000 ornaments, including many Elvis-themed decorations, making it a standout feature of the holiday decorations.
Are there interactive attractions at Graceland during Christmas?
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Yes, visitors can enjoy a Christmas tram tour, see “Santa on Wheels,” and attend special concerts featuring Elvis’s Christmas classics.
What themes are incorporated into the 2019 Graceland Christmas decorations?
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The 2019 decorations included a Blue Christmas theme, a Tropical Christmas in the Jungle Room, and classic decorations in Elvis’s personal spaces.
