Few Hollywood legends remain as instantly recognizable as Marilyn Monroe, and next spring, Palm Springs will honor the screen icon in spectacular fashion. From May 28 through June 1, 2026, the desert destination will host Marilyn 100, a citywide celebration commemorating what would have been Monroe’s 100th birthday.
Presented by Palm Springs Pride and PS Resorts, the five-day event will transform Palm Springs into a tribute to the actress, model, and cultural icon whose influence continues to resonate decades after her passing. Visitors can expect everything from classic film screenings and themed parties to a Guinness World Record attempt that could fill downtown with hundreds of Marilyn look-alikes.
Why Palm Springs Was Chosen
Palm Springs shares a long history with Monroe, making it the perfect location for a centennial celebration.
In 1949, Monroe was reportedly “discovered” at the famous Racquet Club of Palm Springs by talent agent Johnny Hyde. Throughout the 1950s, she became a frequent visitor to the desert oasis, often vacationing in Palm Springs with baseball legend Joe DiMaggio.
Today, her connection to the city remains visible through the towering 26-foot-tall Forever Marilyn sculpture that has become one of Palm Springs’ most photographed landmarks.
Hundreds of Marilyns Expected for Guinness World Record Attempt
The centerpiece of the weekend will take place on Saturday, May 30, when organizers attempt to set a new Guinness World Record for the largest gathering of people dressed as Marilyn Monroe.
The current record stands at 254 participants, but organizers hope to more than double that number by gathering over 500 Marilyn-inspired attendees in downtown Palm Springs.
Expect a sea of white halter dresses, platinum blonde wigs, red lipstick, and vintage Hollywood glamour as participants gather around the iconic Forever Marilyn statue. The event will conclude with a synchronized martini—or mocktini—toast beneath the California desert sky.
For visitors looking for a truly unique travel experience, this could be one of the most memorable photo opportunities of 2026.
Marilyn’s Greatest Films Return to the Big Screen
Film fans will also have the chance to revisit Monroe’s cinematic legacy during the Marilyn 100 Centennial Film Celebration at the historic Plaza Theatre.
Each screening will be paired with themed pre-show festivities and cocktail receptions, creating an immersive Old Hollywood experience.
Film Schedule
Friday, May 29
- The Seven Year Itch
Saturday, May 30
- Gentlemen Prefer Blondes
- Opening performance by the Palm Springs Gay Men’s Chorus
Sunday, May 31
- Some Like It Hot
- Opening performance by the Modern Men Chorus
Monday, June 1
- The Misfits
- Special grand finale screening on Monroe’s 100th birthday
For classic movie lovers, it’s a rare opportunity to see some of Monroe’s most celebrated performances in a historic theater setting.
Tickets: PalmSpringsPlazaTheatre.com.
Sip Like a Star at the Marilyn 100 Martini Festival
Palm Springs’ mid-century modern style and cocktail culture will take center stage during the Marilyn 100 Martini Festival on May 30.
Hosted at Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs Hotel, the one-night fundraising event will combine premium spirits, mixology demonstrations, and live entertainment in an open-air setting inspired by the glamour of Hollywood’s golden age.
Guests can sample specialty cocktails, meet representatives from leading spirit brands, and enjoy music from DJ MODgirl while surrounded by art installations and sculptures celebrating Monroe’s enduring legacy.
The Ultimate Marilyn Makeover Headquarters
Visitors hoping to fully embrace the theme can stop by the Marilyn 100 Boutique throughout the weekend.
Located near the Forever Marilyn statue, the pop-up space will serve as both an information hub and styling headquarters, helping attendees perfect their Marilyn-inspired looks before heading to the record attempt, film screenings, or evening events.
From costumes and accessories to event registration and insider information, the boutique is expected to become the central gathering point for festivalgoers.
A New Reason to Visit Palm Springs
Palm Springs has long been synonymous with classic Hollywood glamour, and Marilyn 100 promises to be one of the city’s most ambitious themed celebrations to date.
Whether you’re a film buff, a fan of vintage fashion, or simply looking for a unique spring getaway, the event offers a chance to experience Palm Springs through the lens of one of entertainment’s most enduring icons.
With record-breaking ambitions, classic films, cocktail parties, and hundreds of Marilyn look-alikes expected to descend upon the city, Palm Springs is preparing for a birthday celebration worthy of Hollywood royalty.
For a complete schedule of events and ticket information, visitors can explore the official Marilyn 100 programming through Palm Springs Pride organizers before planning their desert getaway.