Palm Springs to attempt Marilyn Monroe birthday record

City aims to gather 500 people dressed as Marilyn for 100th birthday celebration

Feb. 6, 2026 at 4:55pm

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The city of Palm Springs, California will attempt to break the Guinness World Record for the largest gathering of people dressed as Marilyn Monroe. The event, called "Marilyn 100", will take place from May 29 to June 1 to celebrate what would have been the iconic actress's 100th birthday. Organizers are aiming to rally 500 participants dressed as Marilyn on May 30 to shatter the current record of 254 "Marilyns".

Why it matters

Palm Springs has a long history with Marilyn Monroe, who was discovered at the Racquet Club in the city in 1949 and frequently visited throughout the 1950s. The "Forever Marilyn" statue is a landmark in downtown Palm Springs, making it an appropriate location to celebrate the star's centennial birthday in a record-breaking way.

The details

The Marilyn 100 event is being hosted by Palm Springs Pride, with proceeds benefiting the organization. Each registered participant will receive a "Marilyn Icon Kit" featuring the signature white halter dress, platinum blonde wig, and a ticket to the record-setting event. A Marilyn Glam pop-up dressing room and boutique will also be set up downtown to help participants get ready. Local businesses are encouraged to host their own Monroe-themed programming as part of the festival.

  • Marilyn 100 will take place from May 29 through June 1, 2026.
  • The record attempt for the largest gathering of people dressed as Marilyn Monroe will happen on Saturday, May 30, 2026.

The players

Palm Springs Pride

The organization hosting the Marilyn 100 event to celebrate the actress's 100th birthday and attempt to break the Guinness World Record.

Forever Marilyn

A statue of Marilyn Monroe located in Palm Springs Downtown Park, which serves as a landmark for the city's connection to the iconic actress.

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What they’re saying

“Marilyn was a trailblazing ally who championed authenticity long before it was fashionable. By stepping into her shoes, our participants are supporting the values of visibility and inclusion that define Palm Springs.”

— Jasmine Sulivan Waits, of Palm Springs Pride

What’s next

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The takeaway

Palm Springs' celebration of Marilyn Monroe's 100th birthday showcases the city's long-standing connection to the legendary actress, while also raising funds for the local LGBTQ+ organization Palm Springs Pride and promoting values of visibility and inclusion.