The Hollywood Walk of Fame is an iconic symbol of fame and stardom, located in the heart of Hollywood, California. It is lined with more than 2,600 stars, each one representing an actor, singer, musician, or other celebrity who has made a mark in the entertainment industry. Although you may be familiar with some of the stars on the Walk of Fame, there is much more to learn about this famous attraction. Here are 10 interesting facts you may not have known about the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

1) The first star was awarded to Joanne Woodward in 1960

Joanne Woodward was the inaugural recipient of a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1960. Since then, more than 2,600 stars have been awarded to celebrated actors, musicians, directors, and other figures of entertainment. Joanne Woodward’s star is located at 6667 Hollywood Boulevard, just steps away from Grauman’s Chinese Theatre.

2) There are more than 2,500 stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame

Each of these stars is unique and commemorates the outstanding achievements of its recipient in film, television, music, radio, and live theatre. The first star was awarded to Joanne Woodward in 1960. The stars are set in 5 categories of terrazzo and brass—motion pictures, television, recording, radio, and live theatre/performance. They are all spaced six feet apart and each weigh over 200 pounds!

3) To receive a star, you must be nominated by a paying sponsor

To become a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, you must be nominated by a sponsor who is willing to pay the $40,000 fee. The sponsor is responsible for submitting an application and providing supporting materials to prove that the nominee has made significant contributions in their field.

4) Stars are made out of terrazzo, a type of concrete

Stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame are created from a durable material called terrazzo. Terrazzo is a composite of cement and marble chips, making it strong and long-lasting. It takes six to eight weeks for each star to be made out of terrazzo. The star is then put into a bed of cement and poured with a terrazzo mix. The finished product is then polished to a high gloss.

5) Each star costs $40,000

The Hollywood Walk of Fame is one of the most iconic tourist attractions in Los Angeles, but what many people don’t know is that each star costs $40,000 to make. This amount goes to help cover installation costs, as well as for maintenance of the stars. The nominees for induction must also pay a fee of $30,000.

6) It takes six to eight weeks to create a star

From nomination to installation, it takes around six to eight weeks for a star to be created on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Once a celebrity has been nominated by a paying sponsor, a unique terrazzo and brass design is developed for the star, which is then fabricated and placed on the famous sidewalk.

7) Stars are typically placed in front of businesses

Businesses are a popular choice for the placement of Hollywood Walk of Fame stars, as it increases their visibility to tourists and locals alike. Many famous celebrities have their stars located in front of the businesses that they own or have a connection to. However, businesses are not required to own a star to be placed in front of them. Many stars can be found in front of restaurants, souvenir shops, and more.

8) The Hollywood Walk of Fame is 1.3 miles long

Stretching from Gower Street to La Brea Avenue, the Hollywood Walk of Fame is an impressive 1.3 miles long. This renowned landmark attracts tourists from all over the world who come to view the iconic stars and experience Hollywood history. Did you know that it was created in 1958 and continues to expand?

9) The Hollywood Sign was not originally part of the Hollywood Walk of Fame

The iconic Hollywood Sign, located just off the famous Walk of Fame, was not originally a part of the landmark. The sign was created in 1923 as an advertisement for a real estate development, and has since become a symbol of the entertainment industry. Today, the sign is a widely-recognized symbol of the glamour and excitement of Hollywood.

10) The Hollywood Walk of Fame is maintained by the City of Los Angeles

The city is responsible for keeping the Walk of Fame in good condition and making sure the stars remain clean and polished. They also coordinate events related to the Walk, including dedications and unveilings. The city also deals with requests from celebrities to be added to the Walk of Fame, ensuring that all candidates meet the criteria set by the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce.