Introduction
“You Won’t Believe This Still Wins” — Elvis Presley’s Graceland Crowned No. 1 Holiday Historic Home Tour for the 8th Year
While many historic landmarks struggle to maintain relevance in the modern era, Elvis Presley’s Graceland continues to defy the odds, proving that the King’s magic is more potent than ever during the festive season. In a staggering achievement that has sent ripples through the travel and tourism industry, Graceland has officially been crowned the No. 1 “Best Holiday Historic Home Tour” by USA TODAY’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards for the eighth year in a row. This unprecedented winning streak highlights a cultural phenomenon that draws over 500,000 visitors annually, with a significant portion of that traffic arriving specifically to witness the mansion’s legendary Christmas transformation.
The holiday season at Graceland is not merely a display of decorations; it is a meticulously preserved time capsule that honors Elvis’s personal love for the holidays. For the hundreds of thousands who make the pilgrimage to Memphis, the experience offers a glimpse into the private life of a global superstar who valued family and tradition above all else. The tour features the iconic blue lights that Elvis himself picked out, lining the long driveway and illuminating the Tennessee night just as they did in the 1960s. Visitors are greeted by a life-sized Nativity scene, a testament to Elvis’s deep spiritual roots, and can even see the original Santa and sleigh display that once sat on the front lawn of the mansion during his lifetime.
Inside, the spectacle continues with classic drapes, glittering trees, and the warmth of a home that feels as though the King might walk back into the room at any moment. This consistent recognition as the nation’s top holiday tour is a major boost for Memphis tourism, reinforcing the city’s status as a premier destination for music lovers and history buffs alike. The “New Era” of Elvis appreciation, often discussed in the context of recent documentaries and films, is clearly reflected in these numbers, as younger generations join longtime fans in celebrating the magic of the season at 3764 Elvis Presley Boulevard.
There is still time for travelers to experience this award-winning magic firsthand. The holiday displays typically remain on view through early January, concluding with Elvis’s birthday celebration on January 8th. As Graceland maintains its crown for nearly a decade, it stands as a shining example of how a historic legacy can be kept alive through authentic storytelling and a commitment to the traditions that the icon himself cherished. Whether you are a die-hard fan or a lover of historic architecture, the No. 1 holiday tour in America proves that when it comes to the King of Rock and Roll, the light never truly fades.