Travel to the birthplace of Rockabilly and walk in the footsteps of the legends who shaped modern music. From April 24–26 2026, the city of Jackson, Tennessee, nestled between Memphis and Nashville, is coming alive for the Blue Suede Rockabilly Weekend, marking 70 years of Carl Perkins’ iconic hit song, “Blue Suede Shoes.”
Jackson, Tennessee, hometown of Carl Perkins, whose music inspired generations of British artists, including The Beatles, invites UK visitors to experience Tennessee, with live music, vintage style, and the warm welcome of America’s musical heartland.
70 YEARS OF “BLUE SUEDE SHOES.”
CELEBRATED IN THE BIRTHPLACE OF ROCKABILLY
Visiting Jackson, Tennessee
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70 Years of “Blue Suede Shoes”
Celebrating Carl Perkins’ timeless hit, right in his hometown
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The Birthplace of Rockabilly
Explore the places, people, and stories that shaped the King of Rockabilly and inspired generations of musicians, from Elvis Presley to The Beatles
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Easy Access for UK Travellers
Fly from London or Manchester to major U.S. hubs like Atlanta (ATL), Chicago (ORD), or New York (JFK), then connect directly to Jackson Regional Airport (MKL)
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Proximity to Music Legends
Visit nearby Graceland, Sun Studio, Beale Street, the Country Music Hall of Fame, and the Grand Ole Opry as part of your Tennessee music journey
Weekend at a Glance
Friday, April 24
Evening welcome and VIP event (limited capacity, VIP ticket required)
Blue Suede Trail kick off. The Blue Suede Trail is a curated experience of local restaurants and shops offering themed food, drinks, and products inspired by the 1950s era.
Carnegie Museum tours of Carl Perkins memorabilia.
Saturday, April 25
Vintage Car Show
Vintage vendors
Rockabilly bands on stage at Hub City Brewing
Rockabilly dance workshop
Blue Suede Trail continues
Pin-up contest
Carnegie Museum tours of Carl Perkins memorabilia.
Q&A with Stan Perkins (Carl’s son)
sunday, April 26
Cars and Coffee Social
Brunch meet-ups, last-minute shopping, and photo stops
Unveiling of Carl Perkins documentary
Events are subject to change.
travel & stay
Fly to the USA via Atlanta (ATL), Chicago (ORD), or New York (JFK), then connect to Jackson Regional Airport (MKL). Use promo code ROCKABILLY26 where applicable for exclusive travel discounts.
Alternatively, fly into Memphis (MEM) or Nashville (BNA) and transfer by car.
Hotels
Choose from national brands or local favorites. Book early for best availability.
extend your trip
Memphis and Nashville are just a short drive away!
From Memphis
(1.5 hour drive)
Visit Graceland, Sun Studio, and Beale Street.
From Nashville
(2 hour drive)
Explore the Country Music Hall of Fame, Lower Broadway, and legendary record shops and studios. The perfect pre- or post-weekend add-on.
tickets & registration
Event passes, T-shirts, and exclusive VIP events are available. VIP access is limited, so secure your spot early!
Stay in the Loop!
Be the first to get lineup announcements, car show details, and Blue Suede Trail offers.
useful info
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Dates
24–26 April 2026 (Central Time, USA)
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Currency
USD (cards widely accepted)
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Weather
Mild spring temperatures; bring a light jacket for evenings