Get ready to rock and roll with Elvis at town festival
Elvis Presley lookalikes will be taking over the seaside town of Porthcawl again this month for a major celebration of The King. This is what’s happening at the 2018 Porthcawl Elvis Festival
When is the Porthcawl Elvis Festival? This year’s event is taking place between Friday, September 28, and Sunday, September 30.
What can I expect?
Thousands of Elvis fans descending on the Welsh seaside town of Porthcawl for a unique celebration of The King, that’s what.
The feature events take place in the town’s Grand Pavilion, while hundreds of shows also take place at The Hi Tide resort during the weekend, many with free admission.
In addition, a fringe festival will be taking place across more than 20 local venues.
What are the highlights?
Opening night (at 7.30pm) at the Pavilion sees a trio of top Elvis tribute acts – Northern Ireland’s Tom Gilson, festival regular Mike Nova and previous Best Festival Elvis winner Lee Alexander – all backed by the legendary Porthcawl House Band.
Saturday plays host to The Elvies – the most prestigious award show in the world for Elvis tribute artists. Each winner will perform their specialist set with a full band backing.
On Sunday (4pm) Ireland’s Ciaran Houlihan will be accompanied by The Graceland Band and a 20 piece Cardiff Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by John Quirk, as part of Elvis Orchestrated.
How do I get there and where can I park? By car – take M4 junction 37 and follow the signs to Porthcawl. Most of the normal public parking in Porthcawl will be available throughout the festival, although Mackworth Road will be closed and there is no parking at the Hi Tide.
A special car park has also been set up in Sandy Bay, signposts for which can be seen along New Road.
By train – the nearest station is Pyle, from which you’ll need to catch a bus into the town.
How much are tickets?
Many of the events are free but the bigger shows are ticketed, with prices of admission ranging from £6 to £35.
Where can I get them from?
Tickets for this year’s official shows can only be purchased direct from the Grand Pavilion Box Office by either calling 01656 815995 to clicking www.grandpavilion.co.uk
Where can I find out more?
For more information visit www. elvies.co.uk