Elvis’ historic haircut

FORT SMITH — On Saturday (March 24), you can get an authentic G.I. buzz cut just like the one Elvis got at Fort Chaffee in 1958.

Officials with the Chaffee Barbershop Museum, which enshrines the spot where Elvis got his first Army haircut, will conduct the fourth annual Haircut Day Saturday, complete with Elvis impersonators, movies and karaoke contest with prizes.

Though the actual anniversary of Elvis’ historic trim isn’t until the next day, Saturday’s 50s-style festivities begins at 10 a.m. with a performance by the Irish Dance Council, followed by tribute artists Brent Giddens and Jerry Page. Activities will also include an Elvis look-alike contest and poodle skirt and hula-hoop contests.

Auto enthusiasts will enjoy displays of vintage military vehicles and automobiles. Face painting, balloons, art displays, festival food will also be available.
An Elvis double-feature will be start at 3:30 p.m. and 6 p.m. in at the Enchanted Wedding Chapel, just two buildings away from the barbershop. Proceeds from the $2 admission will go to benefit the historic district that includes the barbershop museum, the Vietnam Veterans Museum, the Enchanted Doll Museum and the Cre8ive Arts Network, all of which will be open during the day of festivities.

More information can be found here or by calling museum coordinator Joseph Chasteen at (479) 452-4554.