Elvis Presley fans have begun flocking together outside the walls of Graceland, set to pay their respects to the rock `n' roll icon at a candlelight vigil marking the 35th anniversary of his death.

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Fans toting folding chairs and umbrellas against the afternoon sun lined up for a chance to enter Graceland's Meditation Garden on Wednesday evening and visit Presley's gravesite there.

Presley died on Aug. 16, 1977, at age 42 of a heart attack after suffering from prescription drug abuse.

The vigil is the highlight of Elvis Week, the annual celebration of Presley's life and career. Organizers have said they expected 75,000 people to attend Elvis Week, with many taking part in the vigil that will last until the early hours Thursday.

 

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