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Elvis Fest organizers hoping to take show to the next level

Penticton Elvis Festival hopes to move from the convention centre to the SOEC for 20th anniversary.
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Jonathan Hicks, or Johnny Elvis, performing in the finals of the 2019 Penticton Elvis Fest (Western News file photo)

The Penticton Elvis Society is looking to bring its ever-popular Elvis Festival to an even larger audience during its 20th anniversary, just one year away.

Dave Martin, president of the society, said the festival has grown so much in popularity that it requires a bigger venue. They are seeking to move the festival from the Penticton Convention Centre to the South Okanagan Events Centre.

The festival sold out the convention centre last year and they expect to sell out this year as well.

“Our festival seems to grow more popular every year, even though Elvis has been dead for over 45 years,” said Martin, speaking to Penticton city council on Feb. 4.

Martin said the SOEC will create a better “more concert-like” atmosphere and accommodate more people. Travel Penticton estimates that the festival has about a $3 million economic impact each year.

The Elvis Society is seeking help from the city in the form of a $15,000 grant to help cover the rental cost of the SOEC in 2021. Martin said he hopes to soon secure the SOEC for the 2021 festival in June because the SOEC is very busy at that time of year.

The three-day festival attracts fans and performers from around the world. According to Martin, the Penticton Elvis Society has already booked the world’s top Elvis tribute artist for its 20th anniversary next year.

Council decided to forward the request to city staff and expect to make a decision at a later date.

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Jesse Day
Reporter, Penticton Western News
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