Downtown Collingwood, Ontario, Canada, Town of Collingwood

It all began fifteen years ago, in 1995. The Vacation Inn, now known as Georgian Manor Resort, hosted the "Canadian Elvis Tribute and Convention." The foundation was set for what was to become one of the largest festivals of its kind in the world, now known as the Collingwood Elvis Festival.

In 2009, Summer's Biggest Party failed to disappoint, attracting over 120 Elvis Tribute artists and thousands of visitors to Downtown Collingwood. Tribute artists arrived in Collingwood from all parts of Canada, the United States, and beyond. Former champion Dean Vegas from Australia returned to the festival for 2009. Edmonton's Robin Kelly, another past champion, returned to what he says is the best festival anywhere in the world. Paul Ross was here, travelling to Collingwood from Austin, Texas. Roy Leblanc returned to Collingwood as a past Champion and a past Vegas Champion. Leblanc is a huge crowd favourite wherever he goes. This year, Leblanc performed throughout the weekend and acted as host at the Sunday afternoon Elvis Gospel Competition. In 2008, Roy Leblanc was honoured as the festival Gospel Champion.

A huge attraction is the Friday Night Awesome Street Party and Tribute Artist Showcase. The music began at 3pm, but people were lining up to get a front row seat as early as 6am. The music was non-stop and the crowd enjoyed seeing one tribute artist after another take to the main street stage.

Downtown Collingwood BIA General Manager Sue Nicholson said that the festival has become much more "family friendly" over the years, with an emphasis on providing activities that family members can enjoy together. In 2009, the festival introduced Kid's Fest at Millennium Park on Collingwood's waterfront. Children could also enjoy riding the rides and playing the games at the downtown midway.

Saturday morning's Classic Car Tribute Artist Parade" is always another popular event of the festival, attracting thousands of spectators as it winds through the downtown streets.