NEW YORK, Oct 06, 2008 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Macy's (NYSE:M) is celebrating an epic milestone this month as the famous retailer marks its 150th birthday on October 28. A local retail store turned cultural icon, Macy's will commemorate the occasion with a line-up of remarkable events and charity and community-building efforts taking place this month.

"Celebrating 150 years is an incredible accomplishment and a true testament to the strength of Macy's," said Terry J. Lundgren, chairman, president and CEO of Macy's, Inc. "There are very few brands today that can claim the longevity and legacy of ours, and I am endlessly proud to be at the helm of such a dynamic and beloved American institution."

Macy's Passport Goes National

• National television special "Macy's Passport Celebrity Catwalk Challenge," hosted by Tori Spelling, debuts on Saturday, October 11 (8-9 p.m. ET) on NBC
• "Macy's Passport: Fashion Cinema" takes the show to 27 major cities with a one-night-only screening to benefit local HIV/AIDS charities on Thursday, October 23

Macy's is expanding one of its signature fashion and charity events to a new national level by bringing it to the big and small screen for the first time in its 26-year history. Since 1982, Passport has built a reputation as a premier fashion event in LA and San Francisco and has raised more than $27 million for local HIV/AIDS organizations.

On October 11, television stars from some of NBC's most popular shows, Jerry Springer ("America's Got Talent"), Bob Harper ("The Biggest Loser"), Jack Coleman ("Heroes"), Nancy O'Dell ("Access Hollywood"), Kate Flannery ("The Office") and Leyla Milani ("Deal or No Deal" model), will join together as part of Macy's Celebrity Catwalk Challenge. Hosted by Tori Spelling, this reality show style competition features participants enduring the rigors of training to become a Passport runway model. From hair and makeup to gliding down the runway, this one-hour NBC special will put some favorite primetime celebrities to the test and will also include behind-the-scenes footage of some of the most exciting moments from the upcoming Passport cinema event. This special presentation will premiere on October 11 on NBC at 8 p.m. ET.

Two weeks later on October 23, fashion hits theaters with "Macy's Passport: Fashion Cinema." Macy's Passport fashion show is transformed into a high definition cinematic event in 27 major cities across the country, through National CineMedia, with a screening event that will include a pre-show reception with all proceeds benefiting local HIV/AIDS organizations. The cinema show will feature special musical entertainment, including performances by the Pussycat Dolls, Fall Out Boy and Ne-Yo, as well as fashion extravaganzas. Making Passport history, the multi-city premiere of this celebrated runway show represents Macy's fashion leadership and continued dedication to the fight against HIV/AIDS and ongoing involvement in local communities.

Macy's Newest and Oldest Stores Celebrate 150 Years

New Orleans

Macy's is marking 150 years with the grand opening of its newest stores, both in the New Orleans market. Macy's Lakeside Shopping Center and Macy's at The Esplanade will host its public grand openings on Saturday, October 25, but will be celebrated the night before with a star-studded gala to benefit the New Orleans Center for Creative Arts. Hosted by Martha Stewart and Emeril Lagasse, the October 24th cocktail gala will include a VIP reception; a meet-and-greet with celebrities including Tommy Hilfiger, Steve Madden, Russell Simmons, Clinton Kelly, Gavin DeGraw and more; a high-energy fashion show; and a New Orleans-style cooking demonstration by Martha and Emeril. Macy's store openings represent an ongoing retail resurgence and continue the important recovery for the New Orleans market.

New York City

A few days later on Macy's official birthday, October 28, the party moves to Manhattan to celebrate the iconic Macy's Herald Square flagship store for an unprecedented New York-style birthday bash. Held at Gotham Hall located just a few short blocks from Macy's "World's Largest Store," this cocktail reception will include the finest the Big Apple has to offer with culinary delicacies, live entertainment and a special finale to mark the occasion.

A Birthday Party Like No Other

October 25th Shopping Extravaganza

On October 25, Macy's invites America to celebrate together at their favorite Macy's store. Customers across the country can join in the local festivities, which will include appearances by local celebrities and dignitaries, sweet treats, gift card giveaways and special savings.

October 28 -- History In The Making

What started as a small, fancy dry goods store in New York City has grown to an 800-strong national department store chain. From beloved holiday traditions and famed events to the latest and greatest in fashion trends and home decor, Macy's has become and continues to be a retail and cultural icon.

About Macy's

Macy's, the largest retail brand of Macy's, Inc., delivers fashion and affordable luxury to customers at more than 800 locations in 45 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and Guam. Offering distinctive assortments including exclusive fashion and home brands, Macy's stores are operated by four regionally based retail divisions -- Macy's East, Macy's Florida, Macy's Central, and Macy's West -- and an online store at macys.com.

For Macy's media materials, please visit our online pressroom at www.macys.com/pressroom.

Note to Editors: Extensive image gallery available on www.macys.com/pressroom.

SOURCE: Macy's

Macy's Holly Thomas, 646-429-5250 holly.thomas@macys.com