Marilyn cocktails. Photos by Craig T. Mathew/Mathew Imaging

Legends never age. So when I tell you that today is Marilyn Monroe’s 86th birthday, it would be difficult to imagine her blowing out that many candles. As it is, she’s forever frozen in our memories as singing “Happy Birthday” to Kennedy, pushing down an out-of-control white skirt and dancing around with diamonds. In celebration of her birthday, Hollywood Museum is hosting Marilyn Monroe: The Exhibit which opens today. The largest exhibit of Marilyn memorabilia showcases the works of George Barris, the last photographer to shoot Miss Monroe, as well as costumes she wore in her movies, rare family photos and even furniture from her Brentwood home. The exhibit runs through til September 2 if you want to brush up against the Hollywood icon.

To toast to everyone’s favorite blonde, bartender Alex Straus of Hemingway’s Lounge created the following Akvinta Vodka Marilyn Monroe cocktails for the exhibit’s star-studded reception  earlier this week.

Happy Birthday Mr. President
2 oz Akvinta Vodka
1/2 oz Campari
1 oz fresh grapefruit juice

Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend
2 oz Akvinta Vodka
1 oz Lillet blanc
3 oz white grape juice

Some Like It Hot
1 1/2 oz Akvinta Vodka
1 oz fresh lemon juice
1 oz simple syrup
1 slice jalapeno pepper
3/4 oz passion fruit puree

Cheers, Marilyn!

The Hollywood Museum
1660 N. Highland Avenue
Hollywood, California 90028 (map)
(323) 464-7776
Hours: Wednesday through Sunday 10am–5pm
Tickets: $15