MEMPHIS, TN (abc24.com) - Things are getting "all shook up" in Memphis with a celebration fit for a king. Tuesday, thousands of Elvis fans are in the Bluff City to celebrate The King's birthday.
35 years after his death Elvis can still draw a crowd. Hundreds gathered outside his mansion for what would be his 78th birthday.
“I think it's pretty cool really. You know to be here among probably 500 people I'd say celebrating Elvis' birthday,” said Thomas Machnitzki.
What's a birthday bash without a cool cake? This year's is inspired by an Elvis costume worn at a concert in Hawaii.
“We got a 50 inch tall birthday cake fit for a king as we celebrate what would've been the king's 78th birthday here at the king's castle,” said Graceland spokesman Kevin Kern.
“It's beautiful, beautiful. The Aloha theme? Very nice,” noted Carole Mason.
Fans old and young, from near and far, say Elvis' staying power is as strong as ever.
“Personally I think he's better than anything today. I mean there's nobody today that can still be a legend like he has after this many years,” stated 17-year–old Sarah Vega.
Memphis Mayor A C Wharton and Shelby County Mayor Mark Luttrell rewrote the calendar in honor of Elvis, designating January 8th "Elvis Day".
Nancy Rooks, Elvis' last surviving maid at Graceland, said, “It's great that the fans still love him and they're still keeping him alive and I'm just glad to see it."
And if he's watching, I think it's safe to say Elvis is too.
