January 17 Will Be ‘Betty White Day’ in The TV Legend’s Hometown of Oak Park, Illinois

Kevin Winter/iStock via Getty Images
Kevin Winter/iStock via Getty Images / Kevin Winter/iStock via Getty Images
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Betty White missed her centennial birthday bash by a couple weeks, but fans of the legendary actress are still finding ways to celebrate her life and legacy. As People reports, White's hometown of Oak Park, Illinois, is hosting "Betty White Day" on what would have been her 100th birthday.

White was born in Oak Park on January 17, 1922. Her family moved to California shortly after her birth, but Oak Park still lays a claim to its famous short-time resident. On Monday, January 17, the town will celebrate its connection to the celebrity with a day filled with her favorite things.

For Betty White Day, local business Mickey's Restaurant is offering a special meal of hot dogs, french fries, and diet Coke—some of White's favorite foods. Oak Park's Turano Bakery is baking a massive birthday cake in the Golden Girl star's honor. The festivities will also include a Betty White mural contest, with the winning design earning a permanent place downtown.

Betty White passed away in her home on December 31, 2021, at age 99. Her memorable performances on The Mary Tyler Moore Show, Golden Girls, and Hot in Cleveland make up just part of her legacy. The distinctions she racked up over her lifetime include oldest Saturday Night Live host, oldest Emmy nominee, and the female television entertainer with the longest career.

[h/t People]