Organisers are still collating the final figures, but it has been confirmed that the attendance was the biggest in the 24 years of the festival.

While the guesstimate back in 1993 was a crowd of 500, this year 22,000 people flocked to enjoy the five days of events.

The street parade too attracted a record audience of well over 14,000, with 120 entries and more than 1000 participants.

Parkes was booked out for the festival, as was Forbes, and it is anticpated the benefit to the region will be at least $13 million.

Organisers are awaiting official survey data and reporting before a definitive figure can be released.

As well, the Elvis Express was full, with another catering carriage required to look after the passengers.

Mayor Ken Keith made the trip to Sydney to board the train at Central Station, and travel the journey to Parkes. He was there to see off the visitors on Monday morning as well.

“We are thrilled with how Parkes’ Elvis Festival continues to be embraced by the community and visitors alike,” he said.

“It was wonderful to see everyone dressed in their ‘Fun in Acapulco’ inspired outfits and the town really came alive during the five-day festival. We thank everyone who helped make the 2016 festival as successful as it was.”

 Festival director Emily Mann says the festival continues to go from strength to strength with the solid support of funders and loyal sponsors. 

“This year’s success is a testament to the hard work of our volunteers and council staff,” she said.

“Nothing brings the community together like the Parkes Elvis Festival. It’s heartening to see locals and visitors come together to celebrate the legacy of the King of Rock'n'Roll. This year’s 'Fun In Acapulco' Mexican theme saw everyone get into the party spirit. 

“It will be great to see what unfolds as we continue planning for the 25th anniversary [of the festival] in 2017.”