Elvis Presley fans have been shaking up Porthcawl this weekend for its annual celebration of the King of Rock and Roll. The Porthcawl Elvis Festival began on Friday, transforming the seaside town into a hub of Elvis-themed performances and activities.
Around 40,000 people attend each year, and pictures from the 2026 event show it is as vibrant as ever. Elvis tribute acts pay homage to the Memphis icon by recreating his looks, moves and songs on stage. There is also a range of live music performances, street parades and vintage car displays.
Festival highlights and venues
More than 100 shows take place across the weekend at 12 different venues around the town. There are free fringe events including live performances and karaoke nights. The festival is known for its carnival-like atmosphere.
The Hi Tide has supported the festival since its first year and is by far the largest venue in the festival, with six stages. Contests include a 'Hound Dog' prize for the best dressed four-legged attendee.
Family fun and awards
Up to 40,000 people are thought to visit Porthcawl for the festival every year, well over twice the town's population. There are various family-friendly activities, and visitors can immerse themselves in Elvis culture through exhibitions and memorabilia.
It is one of the biggest Elvis-themed festivals in the world. The first of the festivals took place in 2004, and the Best Festival Elvis is crowned on the final day, Sunday. The best tribute acts can win awards known as "Elvies", with categories like "Best Gospel Elvis" and "Best Vegas Elvis". The "Best Festival Elvis" competition includes two live heats and a final where contestants perform with the live festival band.
Growth and origins
The festival attracts music lovers from across the world, young and old, and has massively grown in popularity over the years. In 2004, the seafront Grand Pavilion was under threat of closure. The owners turned to event organiser Peter Phillips for ideas for new shows to drum up business, and he had the idea to create an award show for Elvis tribute acts.
The then-town mayor, Phil Rixon, agreed to renew his marriage vows on Porthcawl beach, recreating the wedding scene from Elvis film Blue Hawaii to generate publicity for the event. The first event attracted about 500 people.
