If he were still alive today, the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll would have celebrated his 79th birthday less than a month ago, on January 8. Although Elvis Presley passed away over three decades ago, enamored fans continue to get together on his birthday — and throughout the year — to celebrate his life and legacy. How are fans all across the globe honoring Presley’s career?
Fans Indulge in Presley’s Favorite Sandwich
Perhaps one of the most unique ways to celebrate the life and times of the King is to enjoy his favorite sandwich, fried peanut butter and banana (sometimes with bacon added), The Wall Street Journal reports. “It’s been reported that Elvis’ mother prepared the sandwich for him on many an occasion (apparently, her special twist was to first fry the bananas in bacon fat),” the publication adds. People all over the world call the unique fried sandwich the Elvis.
Crowds Gather at Graceland to Eat Cake and Celebrate the King’s Birthday
Fans, television personalities, and musicians flocked into Graceland on January 8 to celebrate the King’s 79th birthday. Musicians kicked off the festivities by cutting Elvis’ cake (a tiered cake adorned with records, a guitar, and a vintage microphone) and singing Happy Birthday.
Vacationers Head to Hawaii to Celebrate Elvis’ Music in an Exotic Locale
Presley filmed his telebroadcast Elvis Aloha From Hawaii on January 14, 1973; at least one billion people from all across the world (40 different countries!) tuned into the record-breaking broadcast. Elvis’ official site describes the live concert, “Never has one performer held the world’s attention in such a way. Elvis was in top form physically and vocally. This is probably the pinnacle of his superstardom, one of the all-time great moments of his career.” Moreover, Elvis purportedly loved Hawaii, filming several movies — including famous Blue Hawaii — during his travels.
Hawaiian locals and fans alike continue to celebrate Elvis’ love of the islands with authentic Elvis shows. The shows star an Elvis performer who encourages the audience to celebrate the life and times of the King, without mimicking or dressing exactly like the late Elvis Presley.
Fans from all over the globe have unique ways of paying tribute to the King’s life. Whether you choose to indulge in Elvis Presley’s namesake sandwich, eat cake in Graceland, or seek out Elvis-themed celebrations while vacationing in Hawaii, you can be sure that fans will continue to honor the king year-round, and for decades to come. Continue your research here.