Hollywood Walk of Fame
Celebrates 50 Years

by Los Angeles CVB
(Los Angeles, California)

The iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame turns 50 this year and the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce is planning a yearlong birthday bash. The excitement kicks off with the "Ringo Starr Ceremony," Feb. 8 -- scheduled 50 years to the day of the start of construction of the Walk of Fame (Feb. 8, 1960). This elaborate observance will honor the music industry legend as he receives his Star on the Walk of Fame; and introduce production elements that will give the Star Ceremonies a new look for the next 50 years.

On July 25, the "Community Festival of the Stars" will showcase the Walk's five categories: motion pictures, television, radio, recording and live theatre. It's currently envisioned as a daylong event on Vine Street featuring outdoor stages with live music, live theatre and radio personalities, indoor venues showing past Star Ceremony clips, and food and game booths for the whole family.

The excitement culminates with the "Gala - 50 Years of Walk of Fame Stars," a black-tie fundraiser on Nov. 3, in the Grand Ballroom at Hollywood & Highland Center. It will recognize all Walk of Fame Star honorees and raise funds for the Walk's ongoing restoration and maintenance. "Of course, we will continue to add to the Walk of Fame, with new star ceremonies throughout 2010," said Leron Gubler, President & CEO of the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce. Conceived by the Hollywood Chamber in 1953, the Hollywood Walk of Fame unveiled its demonstration stars in August 1958, the first being in honor of actor Preston Foster.

The Walk was officially dedicated in November 1960. The Walk of Fame now features 2,393 stars, and is one of LA's top attractions and one of the world's most recognizable images of Hollywood.