Fans across the globe are marking what would have been John Lennon’s 85th birthday today, honoring the singular life and enduring legacy of the co-founder of The Beatles, brilliant solo artist, and outspoken activist for peace.
Lennon, who was born on October 9, 1940, in Liverpool, England, is being celebrated for his immeasurable contribution to music and culture. His songwriting partnership with Paul McCartney is widely regarded as the most successful in history.
Global Tributes Reflect a Life of Peace and Music
Celebrations are taking place in multiple locations tied to Lennon’s life and work:
Liverpool: At Strawberry Field, where Lennon would have turned 85, a celebration is underway. The event includes a live performance from his first band, The Quarrymen, featuring original members Rod Davis on guitar and Colin Hanton on drums. Fans are also invited to write a message of peace and tie it to the original Strawberry Field gates, a tradition extending from Thursday, October 9th to Sunday, October 12th.
Reykjavík: Yoko Ono’s outdoor artwork, the IMAGINE PEACE TOWER on Viðey island, will be lit for the 19th time this evening at 20:00 (8:00 PM). The lighting ceremony, which features a musical performance by Una Torfadóttir and an address by the Mayor of Reykjavík, is dedicated to carrying forward the message of peace that Lennon shared with Ono. The tower, a lasting reminder of the importance of peace, will shine until December 8th, the day of his death.
New York City & Boston: The US is hosting multiple birthday celebrations. In New York, the annual John Lennon Tribute is set to take place, where folk legend Judy Collins will receive the 2025 John Lennon Real Love Award.
The tribute’s proceeds benefit Theatre Within, a non-profit offering free programs in creative expression and mindfulness, including the John Lennon Real Love Project, for families impacted by cancer and children in public elementary schools. Additionally, a “Come Together” event is scheduled in Boston, and a “John Lennon Birthday Bash” by Jeff Slate & Friends is also slated for October 5th in New York.
Online Learning: Roundtable is holding an online course, “John Lennon: 85th Birthday Celebration!” today from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM PT, to celebrate his life and career.
The enduring spirit of the former Beatle, a “peacenik and visionary,” continues to inspire generations who find in his music and activism a timeless call for compassion and change. As Lennon famously wrote, “In my life, I’ve loved them all,” and today, the world returns that sentiment.
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