The video at the end of the article
Introduction
Christmas at Graceland was always a time of magic, love, and family for Elvis Presley. Just like millions of people around the world, the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll had a deep affection for the holiday season, transforming his iconic mansion into a winter wonderland with dazzling lights and beautifully decorated trees that would remain in place until his birthday on January 8. However, it was during the Christmas Eve celebrations that the true festive spirit came alive.
For Elvis, Christmas wasn’t just about the decorations or the gifts—it was about the people he loved. Every year, he would host an all-night party at Graceland for his closest family and friends, a tradition that became one of the most cherished parts of the holiday season. The guests, known as the “Memphis Mafia,” were Elvis’ inner circle, and many of them, including his cousin Billy Smith and his family, lived nearby, making the holiday festivities even more special.
One of the most remarkable voices sharing these memories is Danny Smith, Billy’s son, who spent many Christmases growing up in the mansion. On his YouTube channel, Memphis Mafia Kid, Danny shares vivid recollections of what it was like to experience Christmas with Elvis. “Elvis loved Christmas and wanted to make sure that Graceland was lit up and decorated beautifully,” he said in a previous video. The atmosphere of those holidays was so captivating that Danny’s heart would race with excitement, recalling the festive decorations that left a lasting impression on him: “It was beautiful… something you just can’t get out of your mind.”
The festivities began when the Memphis Mafia arrived at Graceland on Christmas Eve. The house would be filled with the aroma of delicious food spread out for everyone to enjoy, but the most anticipated moment was when Elvis made his entrance. Danny described the anticipation he felt as the King descended the stairs, greeting his guests with his trademark charm. It was a moment of excitement that filled the room with warmth, and as Elvis mingled with the adults in the Jungle Room or upstairs in his bedroom, the children—Danny, Lisa Marie Presley, and the other young ones—were free to roam the mansion, playing games and enjoying the freedom of Graceland.
One of the highlights of Elvis’ last Christmas at Graceland in 1976, as shared by Danny, was the party that lasted well into the morning hours of Christmas Day. As most of the adults retired for the night, Danny, Lisa Marie, and the other kids kept the fun going downstairs, laughing and playing. Elvis, in his usual generous spirit, even gave his daughter, Lisa Marie, a special Christmas gift—a golf cart, which she treasured in the years that followed.
For Lisa Marie, Christmas at Graceland held a deep emotional significance, and she continued the tradition of celebrating there with her family after Elvis’ passing. The mansion, now a museum, remains a place of warmth and togetherness for the Presley family. Lisa Marie would often bring out the family china and set the table in the dining room to serve up holiday meals. The kitchen, filled with vintage 1970s appliances, would come to life once more as they gathered to eat together.
It’s heartwarming to think that Lisa Marie’s daughters, Riley Keough and twin teenagers Harper and Finley Lockwood, may continue to carry on these traditions. Despite the mansion’s transition into a museum, Graceland is still a home—one that holds the cherished memories of a family who will never forget the Christmas magic created by Elvis Presley.
Elvis’ last Christmas at Graceland was not just a time of holiday cheer, but a poignant reminder of the love, laughter, and family bonds that defined his legacy. Those magical moments, filled with festive joy and the warmth of family, continue to echo through the halls of Graceland, leaving a lasting impression on all who visit, and on those who were lucky enough to share in the magic of Christmas with the King.