Happy Birthday to the Roanoke Star

The Star gazes into its 68th birthday

ROANOKE,Va. – The iconic Roanoke Star is celebrating its 68th birthday on Thursday. 

The popular landmark was initially meant to be a Christmas decoration, but has become a popular year-round attraction.

It was built in 1949 and is known as the world's “largest freestanding illuminated man-made star. Due to the landmark's fame, Roanoke was nicknamed star city of the south.

It stands more 1,000 feet above the city and is visible for 60 miles in the air. People from all around often come to visit the star to gaze at the view.

The star is lit all year round, but changes colors during special occasions, such as Veterans Day and Independence Day.