Elvis Presley’s Wild Christmas Keepsake From Priscilla: The Surprising Gift Still Displayed at Graceland
Elvis Presley loved the holiday season. He was historically a generous gift-giver, and it was difficult to top some of his more outrageous presents. However, one Christmas, Priscilla Presley delighted the King of Rock and Roll with a wild gift that remains on display at Graceland today.
Elvis Presley’s first Christmas with Priscilla Presley left her at a loss
Elvis Presley spent his first Christmas with Priscilla Presley not at Graceland, his home in Memphis, Tennessee, but in Germany, where he was stationed with the United States Army. It was 1959 and they had been seeing one another for only three months.
In an interview with NPR, Priscilla recalled her first Christmas with Elvis and being at a loss as to what to get him as a present. She was only 14 at the time; Elvis was 24.
“I was trying to find him a Christmas present. That was a feat in itself,” she shared. “I just remember walking down the streets of Wiesbaden trying to figure out what to get him.”
She asked her father, Paul Beaulieu, for money to purchase the gift. He gave her $35 to spend.
“I remember walking up and down the streets and I saw this little music store,” Priscilla said. “And I looked around and I saw bongo drums in the window. I got that for him. He was very happy with them and actually used them quite a bit.”
Where are Elvis’s bongos today?
The first Christmas gift Priscilla Presley ever gave Elvis Presley remains on display at Graceland. However, they are not within the historic estate.
Rather, the bongos are part of a display across the street from the home, part of a complex of buildings that house thousands of artifacts, automobiles, and other items connected to Elvis’ life.
The bongos are part of a display called the Private Presley exhibit. These keepsakes are directly connected to Elvis’ time in the United States Army.
The items encompass the period between 1958 and 1960. On display are Elvis’ Army fatigues and dress uniforms, as well as a series of black and white photos depicting his time as a soldier.
Priscilla Presley called Elvis ‘a kid’ during Christmastime because he loved to give back
To NPR, Priscilla Presley said Elvis Presley behaved like “a kid” during Christmastime. “He loved to buy gifts, he would pick out his own for people.”
She continued, “He would call the jeweler and ask him to bring pieces he wanted to see. Because he wanted to give presents to everyone.”
“He would go shopping. He just loved giving,” Priscilla explained.
Elvis’ generosity extended to all who were close to him. He regularly gave members of his Memphis Mafia Christmas cash bonuses, jewelry, cars, and other expensive gifts.
Beyond Graceland, Elvis also donated generously to those in need in Memphis and surrounding areas. Graceland’s official site details some of the more notable gifts made in Elvis’ name.
Today, the Elvis Presley Charitable Foundation continues Elvis’ tradition of generosity and community service. The foundation manages a scholarship at the University of Memphis in his name and makes donations to Goodwill Homes, a facility for abused children and their families.
Elvis Presley’s Graceland celebrates the Christmas season from Nov. 21, 2024, through Jan. 11, 2025.
