Elvis Fans Celebrate 20 Years of Tribute at Elvis Down Under

This weekend, Elvis fans will gather to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Elvis Down Under, New Zealand’s most significant Elvis festival and tribute competition. Taking place at the Cosmopolitan Club in Upper Hutt from October 17 to 19, 2023, the event promises a vibrant atmosphere filled with music and nostalgia as fans remember the legacy of the King of Rock and Roll.

The festival, founded by Cathy Finau two decades ago, has become a highlight for Elvis enthusiasts. This year, however, marks a bittersweet occasion as Finau steps aside to focus on her health. As the festival’s original creator, she expressed her sadness about leaving but reflected on the incredible journey she has experienced through the event. “I’ll still be in touch with everybody,” she told The Post while preparing for the festivities.

Celebrating Elvis with Enthusiasm

Elvis Down Under showcases the ongoing passion for Elvis Presley, drawing fans from across New Zealand and Australia. The youngest impersonator competing this year is just 15 years old, while the oldest is 62, highlighting the diverse age range of fans dedicated to preserving Elvis’s legacy. Kimberley McCheyne, an organizer of the event, noted that it would be a celebration of the past 20 years, despite Finau’s retirement.

This annual gathering has gained recognition in the Elvis tribute community, with nearly sold-out tickets for this year’s event. The weekend will feature a variety of activities, including quizzes, a two-hour gospel performance, and the much-anticipated Elvis impersonation competition. Dean Vegas, a well-known Elvis tribute artist, will serve as the event’s MC.

Exciting Competition Awaits

During the competition, 18 impersonators will compete for a chance to win two tickets to Cooly Rocks On, a four-day festival on the Gold Coast scheduled for next year. Among the competitors, eight will be traveling from Australia, while one will be coming from Rarotonga. McCheyne emphasized that the event is not only about the music but also about the community that has formed around Elvis’s enduring charm and down-to-earth attitude.

As the weekend unfolds, fans will relish the opportunity to celebrate their shared love for Elvis Presley, creating new memories while honoring the legacy of the legendary performer. Elvis Down Under is set to deliver an unforgettable experience, reminding attendees of the cultural impact and timeless appeal of one of music’s greatest icons.