The One Thing to Do in Tennessee Before the End of the Year

As the year winds down and Tennessee settles into its cozy winter rhythm, there’s one experience that stands out above the rest — a holiday tradition so iconic, heartfelt, and unmistakably Southern that it deserves a spot on every end-of-year bucket list. A visit to Graceland at Christmas isn’t just a seasonal activity; it’s a chance to step into Elvis Presley’s world at its most magical, when the legendary estate transforms into a sparkling winter wonderland.

While Graceland is a memorable destination any time of year, the holidays at the estate elevate it into something extraordinary. The moment you arrive, you’ll notice the difference. Instead of the typical tour atmosphere, the entire property glows beneath thousands of twinkling lights, many of which are faithful recreations of the original decorations Elvis himself put up during the season. The blue lights lining the driveway, the life-size nativity scene, and the iconic Santa and reindeer display bring a nostalgic charm that instantly sets the mood. It feels as if you’ve stepped back into the 1960s, and like a rare opportunity to experience Graceland much as Elvis did.

Inside the mansion, the transformation continues. Rooms are decked in traditional Christmas décor selected by Elvis and his family: elegant garlands, vintage ornaments, and richly colored holiday accents. The Presley family’s traditional red holiday drapes replace the usual white ones, creating a warm and intimate glow throughout the living spaces. The dining room features Elvis’s Christmas china, and the family Christmas tree, loaded with tinsel and retro flair, stands tall in the living room as the undeniable centerpiece. Even if you’ve toured the mansion before, seeing it dressed for the holidays gives it an entirely new personality.

What sets a holiday visit to Graceland apart is the feeling. During the rest of the year, the estate serves as a tribute to Elvis’s life and career. In December, it becomes a home again. A festive, inviting, lived-in warmth fills every corner, making it easy to imagine Elvis celebrating the season with friends and family. The atmosphere is more emotional, more personal, and as a result, deeply memorable.

To make the most of your visit, timing and planning are key. Weekdays generally offer fewer crowds, allowing you to enjoy the exhibits and holiday touches at a relaxed pace. If you can, book an evening tour; the lights shine brightest after sunset, and the mansion looks its most enchanting when illuminated against the night sky.

Beyond the mansion tour, the holiday spirit continues throughout the broader Graceland campus. The Entertainment Complex features seasonal exhibits, festive music, themed photo opportunities, and special events that vary each year — from holiday concerts to Elvis-themed celebrations. Shops offer exclusive Christmas merchandise that makes perfect gifts for Elvis fans or keepsakes for your own tree.

If you want a full immersive experience, consider staying at The Guest House at Graceland, the estate’s elegant hotel. Its lobby decorations are stunning on their own, and the festive ambiance continues throughout the property, complete with seasonal dining options and cozy common areas perfect for a winter escape.

Whether you’re a lifelong Elvis fan or simply looking for a uniquely Tennessee holiday outing, Christmas at Graceland is the kind of experience that captures the charm, nostalgia, and warmth of the season. It’s beautiful, it’s joyful, and above all, it feels genuinely special.

Before the year slips away, make the trip to Memphis and walk through Graceland glowing with holiday cheer. It’s a tradition worth starting (and one you’ll likely want to repeat year after year).

Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.