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May marks the 100th birthday of a legend who left us too soon: The iconic Marilyn Monroe. Her ties to the city are significant. While at a photoshoot at the Racquet Club of Palm Springs, she was discovered by a talent agent, Johnny Hyde, who skyrocketed her career. Now, her statue stands proudly in the park downtown by the museum.
Neither of these stories are without some controversy, but the fact remains that the perfect place to celebrate her centennial is Palm Springs, a city who knows how to throw a party worthy of this woman. So much so that Guinness World Records was notified!
The excitement over Marilyn’s celebration is palatable. Contagious as well, apparently, as this introverted writer will be swapping her laptop and the comfort of her home for a day to don the famous white dress and blonde locks look and join the sea of Marilyns gathering by her larger-than-life statue downtown in a mock martini salute.
Care to join me? All the details are below, along with more events to celebrate all that is Marilyn.
And for my fellow introverts, fear not. There are options to commemorate the occasion in more relaxed ways, including movies, meals, and even some deals!
Now, on to the main event!
Celebrate Marilyn Monroe’s 100th birthday by breaking a world record
Join your fellow Marilyns for an unforgettable event
May 30, 2 to 10 p.m.: Marilyn Monroe 100th Birthday Record-Setting Event — It’s your time to shine like a superstar, and break a world record for the most Marilyn Monroes in one gathering. The current record was set by a town in Australia and sits at 254. The intention is to surpass this by over 500, and you can help.
The $75 registration fee includes an “icon kit” that contains the signature white subway dress, a platinum blonde wig, cat-eye sunglasses, and a martini glass. Break a world record and get a jumpstart on your Halloween costume too? Perfection.
Even better, the funds raised benefit Palm Springs Pride.
You’ll pick up your kit at the Marilyn Glam Shop, a pop up open May 28-30 in downtown Palm Springs. They will also be offering additional fun themed accessories.
On the big day, you’ll gather with your fellow Marilyn Monroe lookalikes in downtown Palm Springs, around the “Forever Marilyn” statue. The official record attempt will take place from 4:30 to 6 p.m. Live music and food and drink vendors will keep the vibe going from 2 to 10 pm.
See Marilyn on the big screen
May 29 to June 1: Marilyn 100: A Centennial Film Celebration — Four films Marilyn Monroe made famous will be screened at the Historic Plaza Theatre over four days. Grab a single ticket to see your favorite or snag an all-access pass to catch them all, along with live acts and appearances honoring her legacy.
June 1, 6 to 8 p.m.: Some Like It Hot, Palm Springs Cultural Center — Celebrate on the day of Marilyn Monroe’s 100th birthday with this iconic film screening at the historic Camelot Theatre.
Marilyn meals and deals
May 29 and 30, 4:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.: Champagne & Chips at Zin American Bistro — Eat like the icon with a 3-course dinner inspired by some of Marilyn’s favorite foods. The dishes come with exciting twists (think mini beef wellingtons, royal onion gratin soup, steak, lobster pasta and more), all served to you by Marilyn lookalikes and dreamy gentlemen. The cocktails and bubbles will be flowing, and the dinner starts at a mere $49. Make your reservations online or by phone.
May 28 to June 1: EIGHT4NINE Marilyn 100 Cocktail — Raise a glass with a Marilyn-inspired cocktail incorporating her favorite flavors of Champagne and strawberries, for half price.
May 29, 5 p.m. to May 30, 2 a.m.: Calling All Marilyns at Streetbar — Get a head start on showing off your Marilyn look and enjoy a Seven-Year Itch Martini.
May 28 to June 1: Talavera Palm Springs — Book a stay at Talavera during this time and get 10% off your stay and a complimentary bottle of bubbles, using code MARILYN100.
If you’re planning a trip to Palm Springs earlier in the month, pay homage to the icon by checking out Melvyn’s at Ingleside Estate. This was a notable Monroe hangout and offers live piano daily. Remember to visit her star on the Walk of Stars and snag a solo or smaller group photo by the “Forever Marilyn” statue.
Until next time, have a wonderful month of Marilyn — I mean, May!
