Scores of Elvis fans, tribute artists and impersonators have boarded the iconic NSW TrainLink Elvis Express at Sydney’s Central Station, travelling to the Central West hub of Parkes for the world-famous Parkes Elvis Festival (7-11 January 2026).

More than 220 passengers, dressed in rhinestones, jumpsuits and classic Elvis glamour, set off on a 365-kilometre journey west, demonstrating how NSW TrainLink services make it easier for people to travel safely, comfortably and sustainably to major regional destinations.

Before they boarded the musical expedition, Sydney’s Central Station was transformed into a vibrant 1950s event.

Passengers enjoyed live entertainment and themed, decorated carriages throughout the journey, with more onboard Elvis performers than ever before, keeping the festivities alive all the way to Parkes.

This year’s themed carriages included the Graceland Express, All Shook Up Shuttle, Burning Love Bullet, Viva Las Vegas Line and Priscilla’s Place.

The 2026 festival theme, Love Me Tender, marks 70 years since Elvis Presley made his acting debut in the 1956 musical western of the same name.

The Elvis Express send-off also featured an international tribute artist, Louis Brown from the United Kingdom, adding to the global flavour of the event.

Passengers were treated to Elvis-themed food onboard, including iced donuts topped with edible Elvis designs, alongside savoury options inspired by the King’s favourite flavours, including peanut butter, banana and bacon sandwiches.

Passengers will return to Sydney on the Elvis Express on Monday, 12 January.

The NSW Government has supported the Parkes Elvis Festival since 2004 through the Regional Event Fund (delivered by Destination NSW), helping it grow from a small local celebration into a major regional event and the biggest celebration of the King in the Southern Hemisphere.

The festival now attracts more than 25,000 visitors each year and injects more than $10 million into the Central West’s local economy.

The festival is held each January around Elvis Presley’s birthday. He would have turned 91 tomorrow.

Beyond special event services like the Elvis Express, NSW TrainLink’s rail and coach network connects more than 365 destinations across NSW, Victoria, Queensland and the ACT, supporting regional communities, tourism and access to key regional centres year-round.

Minister for Regional Transport Jenny Aitchison said: “Events like the Parkes Elvis Festival show how important reliable, accessible public transport is for connecting people to our regions and supporting local tourism and jobs.

“The Elvis Express is more than a novelty service, it’s a practical example of how investing in regional transport helps people travel safely and comfortably to our regional hubs, while backing local economies.

“NSW TrainLink plays a critical role in making major regional events accessible, giving people the confidence to leave the car behind and experience the culture, hospitality and pride that regional New South Wales has to offer.”

Minister for Tourism Steve Kamper said: “The Parkes Elvis Festival is one of the nation’s most popular regional events, each year drawing more than 20,000 people to the NSW Central West to celebrate the life and music of The King of Rock’n’roll.

“Major events in our regions like the Parkes Elvis Festival, drive visitation across our state and support the thousands of businesses and jobs that rely on our visitor economy.

“The NSW Government is proud to support this wonderful event which has been keeping the magic of Elvis alive for decades.”

Mayor of Parkes Shire Council Neil Westcott said: “The Elvis Express is the ultimate way to kick off the Parkes Elvis Festival! “Every year it brings a wave of excitement, colour and rock ’n’ roll spirit right into the heart of our town. We love seeing the Elvis Express roll in, packed with fans ready to celebrate - it’s all part of what makes this festival so special.

“We can’t wait to welcome NSW TrainLink and their passengers back for another unforgettable ride to Parkes!”