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Our History
1978 — The Beginning
The Taking Care of Presley Memorial Benefit Committee was founded in 1978 by Kay Lipps, Paul Lipps, and Shirley Lyday with a shared goal: to honor Elvis Presley’s memory by giving back to the community, inspired by Elvis’ own charitable and humanitarian spirit. During those early years, the committee also brought fans together through fan club meetings, gatherings, and benefit-driven activities—building the relationships and momentum that would later help inspire what became Indiana Elvis FANtasy Fest.
In June 1978, the group donated a commemorative plaque to Market Square Arena in Indianapolis. The plaque was displayed in a wall case in the arena’s ticketing area and remained there until Market Square Arena was imploded. Today, it is preserved alongside other MSA memorabilia at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.
1993 — A Festival Is Born
In 1993, the first annual Elvis FANtasy Fest was held in Portage, Indiana, raising funds for Porter County Special Olympics. What began as a fan-driven tribute quickly grew into a cherished annual celebration of Elvis’ music, legacy, and generosity—bringing fans together year after year to celebrate, remember, and give back. Over the decades, the event has donated more than $500,000 to support Special Olympics athletes and programs.
Over time, the festival has welcomed special guests with direct ties to Elvis Presley’s world, including members of his inner circle and touring family: Joe Esposito (close friend and member of Elvis’ Memphis Mafia), Sam Thompson (longtime friend and bodyguard), Dick Grob (head of security), Al Dvorin (Elvis’ iconic concert announcer), D.J. Fontana (drummer), Charlie Hodge (guitarist, vocalist, and stage companion), and The Sweet Inspirations (backing vocal group). The festival has also hosted members of Elvis’ medical care team, including nurses Letetia “Tish” Henley Kirk and Marian J. Cocke.
Mom interviewing D.J. Fontana (drummer)
2002 — A Lasting Tribute
With contributions from fans, the TCP Memorial Benefit Committee commissioned a commemorative marker containing a time capsule filled with notes and remembrances submitted by Elvis fans. The marker also recognizes Presley’s final Market Square Arena concert on June 26, 1977, and was originally placed along the Indianapolis Cultural Trail in 2002 on the concert’s 25th anniversary.
The marker was later moved for safekeeping during construction of 360 Market Square, a 28-story Flaherty & Collins development with apartments and businesses. Flaherty & Collins Properties and Kay Lipps of Indiana Elvis FANtasy Fest joined for the marker’s rededication at 360 Market Square on June 26, 2018—the 41st anniversary of Elvis’ performance at the former Market Square Arena.
“It was important to honor and acknowledge the history of the site,” said Jim Crossin of Flaherty & Collins.
The marker includes a Paul Lipps photograph of Presley wearing his “Aztec sundial” jumpsuit from that final 1977 Market Square Arena concert. It is currently located at 320 E Market St, Indianapolis, IN 46204.
The time capsule is scheduled to be opened on June 26, 2102, and includes fan letters, a cassette recording of the final concert, a Graceland catalog, and a book of Elvis tour photographs by well-known Elvis photographer Keith Alverson.
Mom and Dad with Al Dvorin (Elvis’ iconic concert announcer).