Few People Know That The Market Square Arena In Indiana Is The Last Place That Elvis Ever Performed
By Elizabeth Crozier|Published April 04, 2020
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Elizabeth Crozier
Author
An Illinois transplant who grew up and went to school in Indiana for 22 years, Elizabeth holds a BFA in creative writing and has enjoyed traveling across the country and parts of Europe. She has visited half of the states, as well as parts of Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean, and regularly travels home to the Hoosier State to see friends and family. With more than five years of writing experience, Elizabeth’s articles have been featured on several websites, and her poetry and short stories have been published in multiple literary journals.
The most historic performance to ever take place in Indianapolis happened at Market Square Arena in the 1970s. This concert attracted thousands and involved the biggest rock star of all time. Scroll on to learn all about this incredible moment in our state’s history.
Few people know that the King of Rock and Roll's final concert was held in Indiana. It took place in Indianapolis at the Market Square Theatre on June 26, 1977.
He played a full set of hits, including "Jailhouse Rock," "I Can't Stop Loving You," "Hound Dog," and "Can't Help Falling In Love," and though his performance was good, he received mixed feedback.
Though he'd lost weight from his days performing in Las Vegas, there was still criticism of the pounds around his middle, and comments were also made about him looking pale.
About 18,000 people watched Elvis Presley's performance at the Market Square Arena, unaware that it would be his last. At only 42 years of age, this was yet another comeback for the rock star.
Less than two months later, Elvis passed away in his home at Graceland in Memphis, Tennessee. Fans around the world were shocked, but you can imagine that those who had just seen him in Indy were likely extra flabbergasted.
Today, memorials to the King of Rock and Roll exist throughout the world. You can visit his home throughout the year and learn about the impact his music and legacy have had on our culture.