Elvis Presley's Graceland in Memphis, TN will officially begin the holiday season by "flipping the switch" for the annual lighting celebration on November 19, with the traditional lights and decorations on the 13.8 acre mansion property. The extensive display 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 and the Presley family.
The event this year will also support the American Red Cross, with the Bloodmobile on site as part of an awareness campaign to encourage the public to donate blood during the holidays, a historically critical time for blood inventory. During his lifetime, Elvis supported the Red Cross and frequently donated blood while in the Army.
Highlighting the 2010 lighting ceremony will be Lee DeWyze, winner of the ninth season of American Idol, who will join with a Red Cross blood recipient and "flip the switch" to officially light the Graceland property and kick off the holiday festivities. The interiors of Graceland mansion will also be decked in Elvis' Christmas decor. Included will be his traditional red velvet drapes as well as Presley family Christmas artifacts on display around several trees throughout the home. Santa will be available for pictures with the kids throughout the evening's festivities. The public is welcome to attend the free lighting event. Regular paid tours of Graceland will operate the day of the lighting ceremony from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.