Memphis, TN. (Top40 Charts/ Beckwith Company) - Elvis Presley's Graceland in
Memphis will officially begin the holiday season on Friday, November 21 with the annual lighting of the traditional lights and decorations on the mansion property. The extensive spectacle includes hundreds of blue lights along the driveway, a life-size Nativity scene,
Santa and his sleigh and much more originally displayed at Graceland by Elvis.
Highlighting the activities will be Martina McBride, who will be joined by St. Jude child patients to 'flip the switch' and officially light the 13.8 acre Graceland Property. Ms. McBride recently finished her participation in an all new holiday CD with Elvis. "Elvis Presley Christmas Duets" features many of today's biggest country artists, including Carrie Underwood, Gretchen Wilson, Sarah Evans and LeAnn Rimes singing classic Elvis holiday songs with Elvis Presley.
Another holiday treat is the unveiling of the new Graceland Christmas Limited Edition release by renowned artist Thomas Kinkade. Mr. Kinkade will be joining Ms. McBride on stage for the ceremony and greeting fans.
Marlo and Tony Thomas, children of St. Jude Children's Research Hospital founder Danny Thomas, will be in attendance on behalf of St. Jude to celebrate the fifth anniversary of the Thanks and Giving� campaign. Thanks and Giving is an unprecedented coming together of celebrities, media, retail and corporate partners that asks consumers to "Give thanks for the healthy kids in your life, and give to those who are not."
SIRIUS Elvis Radio will present special coverage of the 2008 lighting ceremony LIVE from Graceland. Martina McBride will also guest DJ on Elvis Radio SIRIUS channel 13 as she shares her unique experience of recording "Blue Christmas" for the Elvis Presley Christmas Duets album with the help of creative audio engineering. Elvis Radio listeners also will have the chance to meet Martina during her visit to Graceland along with an all expense paid trip to Memphis. Enter now at sirius.com/elvisradio.
The interiors of Graceland mansion will also be decked in Elvis' Christmas decor for the holiday season and include his traditional red velvet drapes and Presley family Christmas artifacts on display around several trees throughout the home, including the famous Jungle Room.
The public is welcome to attend the free lighting event, and paid tours of Graceland will operate the day of the lighting ceremony from 10AM to 6PM. Others from around the world can enjoy the evening live via the "GracelandCam" at www.elvis.com.
WHEN: Friday, November 21 at Dusk (approximately 6:15PM Central)
WHERE: Graceland, Elvis Presley Boulevard, Memphis, Tennessee
