Welcome to On the Radar, where we preview upcoming events to mark your calendars for. It takes more than mutton chops and a sexy sneer to pull off a convincing impersonation of the immortal Elvis Presley. See for yourself whose routine will reign supreme at The Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest. It’s the highlight of the eighth annual Tampa Elvis Festival, held this weekend at All People’s Life Center.
The winner of the daylong contest earns a spot in the – drum roll, please — Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest finals in Memphis during Elvis Week, this August. When pelvii aren’t being thrust about, the rest of the fest features the usual: fam-friendly entertainment — including Elvis Square Dancing — live music (OK, more pelvii being thrust about), food (grilled peanut butter and banana sandwiches, anyone?) and vendors selling their tasteful, Elvis-themed merchandise (perhaps dogs playing poker with Velvet Elvis). Thank you, thankuver’much. 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Sat., July 17, 6105 E. Sligh Ave., Tampa, $25; children under 16 get in for half price and tots under 5 get in free, 813-977-6011. —Anthony Salveggi
