#kobebryantday

SANTA MONICA, Calif. - In a heartfelt tribute, the Santa Monica Pier will illuminate in shades of purple and gold on Thursday evening to honor the memory of the late Lakers Legend, Kobe Bryant.The iconic 90-foot-tall Ferris wheel at Pacific Park will radiate with the symbols ‘LA + heart + 24’ and ‘LA + heart + 8,’ accompanied by displays of vibrant gold and purple hues that will transition in various captivating patterns. This event marks Kobe Bryant Day (also recognized as Black Mamba Day or Mamba Day) on 8/24, commemorating the jersey numbers, 8 and 24, which Bryant proudly wore during his illustrious 20-year NBA career. This date also holds significance as it follows his birthday on August 23. Notably, in 2017, Kobe Bryant became the first NBA player to have both his jersey numbers retired by a single team.The Pacific Wheel, boasting a remarkable 174,000 LED lights distributed across its structure, including its 40 spokes and two hubs, will emanate a tribute to Kobe from sunset until midnight on Thursday. This unique Ferris wheel, powered by solar energy, showcases a lighting system capable of producing 16.7 million color combinations. Its sophisticated programming and display software deliver dynamic, custom, and computer-generated lighting sequences at up to 24 frames per second. Additionally, the environmentally conscious LED lighting system offers an 81 percent increase in energy efficiency compared to traditional incandescent bulbs typically used on Ferris wheels.In conjunction with this luminous commemoration, below are numerous ways to honor Kobe Bryant on this special day:- Mural Tribute: Muralist Tyke Witness, responsible for a heartfelt mural in Costa Mesa dedicated to Kobe and Gigi, is unveiling a mural in downtown Los Angeles after a meticulous 150-day creation process. Witness's dedication to the Bryant family and Lakers Nation shines through her artwork, symbolizing the profound impact Kobe had on Los Angeles.- Mamba Mentality: Muralist Ladie One, deeply inspired by Kobe Bryant's unyielding work ethic and Mamba Mentality, reflects these values in her tribute mural, expressing her admiration for Kobe's heroic presence and his lasting influence.- Dining and Remembrance: The restaurants surrounding the renowned Staples Center, a place synonymous with Kobe's legacy, are open for both dine-in and takeout. From The Original Pantry Café to Yard House, Fleming’s, El Cholo, Broken Spanish, Levy, and Rock N Fish Restaurant, these establishments offer an opportunity for fans to gather and remember.- Figueroa Street Tribute: A plan is underway, announced by Los Angeles City Councilman Herb Wesson, to rename a section of Figueroa Street near the arena in honor of the Lakers legend, acknowledging his profound impact on the city.- Global Mural Tour: Across the world, more than 300 murals honoring Kobe and Gianna Bryant have been created, with over 300 in the Los Angeles area alone. For a comprehensive guide to these artworks, visit KobeMural.com, detailing locations across Southern California, the United States, and beyond.- Staples Center Connection: Staples Center, known as "The House that Kobe Built," holds a special place in the hearts of fans as the arena where Kobe secured 5 NBA championships during his remarkable two-decade journey with the Lakers. The move of the Lakers and Clippers to Staples Center in 1999 coincided with Kobe Bryant's fourth season in the league, solidifying his legacy within the arena's walls.As the Santa Monica Pier bathes in purple and gold, and as people around the world commemorate Kobe Bryant's enduring legacy, the impact of his life and achievements continue to inspire and resonate deeply.