MEMPHIS, Tenn. (August 15, 2012)--Tens of thousands of Elvis Presley fans are expected to pay respects to the rock 'n' roll icon during a candlelight vigil at Graceland marking the 35th anniversary of his death.

Fans began lining up Wednesday afternoon at the entrance to Graceland, Presley's longtime Memphis home.

Presley died on Aug. 16, 1977, at age 42 of heart disease and prescription drug abuse.

Fans holding candles will be allowed to visit his grave site at Graceland's Meditation Garden beginning around 8:30 p.m. Wednesday and the vigil is expected to last into early Thursday.

The vigil is the highlight of Elvis Week, the annual celebration of Presley's life and career.

Organizers said they expected 75,000 people to attend Elvis Week, with many taking part in the vigil.