If you love historic icons, then look no further than Palm Springs this summer. That’s because there’s an upcoming homage event shaped around old Hollywood. Read on to find out what’s on the schedule.
A Five-Day Extravaganza
This week on PR Newswire, the news arrived that Palm Springs hosts a five-day extravaganza in memory of Marilyn Monroe.
If you don’t recall her, your parents might, so maybe it’s time to think about that as a treat for the older generation!
The details that emerged revealed that from May 28 to June 1, 2026, the city celebrates what would have been Marilyn Monroe’s 100th birthday.
Tons of Events
Other information shows that the event’s been arranged by Palm Springs Pride and presented by PS Resorts. Actually, this sounds like a fine event even for the younger generation. Expect a lineup of parties, film screenings, and historic moments.
That will definitely appeal to all who love the movies, style, and a touch of history.
One of the most eye-catching spectacles will be a massive gathering of Monroe impersonators. Imagine hundreds of folks dressed in the star’s signature white halter dresses, platinum curls, and red lipstick!
The Look-Alikes Seem Like Fun
On Saturday, May 30, hundreds of Monroe look-alikes will assemble in downtown Palm Springs for an official attempt to break the largest gathering of people dressed as Marilyn Monroe. Possibly, their target of 500 folks will turn up for that.
You can catch that happening in downtown Palm Springs. Obviously it’s all pretend, but it blends her popularity with nostalgia. Plus, lots of other Monroe-themed activities sit on the list of must-sees.
Movies & A World Record
Classic movie screenings, and a fun effort to set a Guinness World Record entice travelers. That takes place, aptly in front of the 26-foot-tall statue Forever Marilyn, a beloved local landmark.
Did you know that Palm Springs holds a special place in Monroe’s story? In 1949, she was discovered at Charlie Farrell’s Racquet Club by William Morris talent agent Johnny Hyde.
Then, during the 1950s, she frequently visited the desert oasis with her then-husband, baseball legend Joe DiMaggio.
Film Buff Interest
Film buffs definitely won’t want to miss Marilyn 100: A Centennial Film Celebration. You’ll find that at the historic Plaza Theatre.
The four-film series highlights some of Monroe’s most iconic performances. Oh, and it comes with a festive cocktail hour in the Plaza lobby:
- Friday, May 29 at 7:00 p.m. – The Seven Year Itch.
- Saturday, May 30 at 7:30 p.m. – Gentlemen Prefer Blondes (featuring an opening performance by the Palm Springs Gay Men’s Chorus)
- Sunday, May 31 at 2:00 p.m. – Some Like It Hot (opening with the Modern Men Chorus)
- Monday, June 1 at 7:00 p.m. – The Misfits (Grand Finale on Monroe’s actual 100th birthday)
Tickets are available at PalmSpringsPlazaTheatre.com.
The Marilyn 100 Martini Festival
For one night only, midcentury glamour meets modern craft cocktails at Marilyn at “The Kimpton: The Marilyn 100 Martini Festival.”
Held on the evening of May 30 in the Kimpton Rowan’s curated breezeway, the fundraiser aims to bring high-end spirit tastings with a tribute to Monroe’s special connection to Palm Springs.
Guests will wander through an open-air gallery featuring premium brands, chat with industry experts, and more. Tickets can be purchased at PSpride.org/marilyn100.
The Marilyn 100 Boutique
Throughout the weekend, the Marilyn 100 Boutique will serve as the headquarters for all things glamorous. Located near the Forever Marilyn statue, the pop-up space acts as a registration center and an immersive styling studio, helping fans perfect their Monroe look. That sounds like a lot of fun!
What do you think? Will you try and get to Palm Springs for this fun travel experience? Let us know in the comments below, and remember to come back here for all your travel news and updates.