PHOTOS From Elvis Presley’s 43rd Death Anniversary Vigil

Every year, hundreds of fans gather at Graceland to pay tribute to late rock star Elvis Presley on the anniversary of his death.

But, this year’s gathering was historic for several reasons — including the fact that everyone had to wear a mask. The candlelit vigil marking Presley’s 43rd death anniversary on August 15 was ticketed — and only those with prior reservations or authorised passes could attend the heavily secured event. Though the tickets were free, they were required in order to control numbers and successfully pull off a ‘socially distanced’ vigil, limiting the number of attendees to just over 700. 

The King of Rock and Roll died on August 16, 1977 at the age of 42 in the bathroom of his Memphis mansion, Graceland. 

Ever since, fans have a standing date with each other on August 15 every year, staying until the morning hours of August 16, to mourn the fallen artist.