The late 'Thriller' hitmaker - who died of acute Propofol intoxication at his home in Los Angeles on June 25 last year ' will be honoured with a special 'This Is It' birthday party outside his childhood home in Gary, Indiana on Saturday (28.08.10), the day before what should have been his 52nd birthday.

Gary Mayor Rudy Clay said: "The passing of our favourite son, Michael Jackson, is still fresh in our hearts. A year later, on the day before his birthday, we honour his memory as a great and giving person and as the world's greatest entertainer."

Michael's father, Joe Jackson, will attend a cake cutting ceremony at the tribute, which will also feature a group 'Thriller' dance.

As well as the birthday celebrations, a separate four-day MJFanvention begins in the town today. (26.08.10).

The main attraction at the fan event will be a special tribute concert on Saturday, featuring Tony Award-winner Melba Moore and the late singer's former tour guitarist Jennifer Batten, as well as impersonator Edward Moss and a choir of Indiana residents.

A stage production based on the life and music of the legendary singer entitled 'Yesterday, Today & Forever ' will also take place in the town on Thursday (26.08.10).

Michael's mother Katherine Jackson unveiled an 8ft granite plaque in his honour at the house in Gary on the first anniversary of the King of Pop's death earlier this year.

The Jacksons left Gary in 1969 after the Jackson 5 became a successful recording group.

The Jackson Family Foundation ' headed by the late singer's father ' is planning to build a multi-million-dollar museum, golf course and performing arts centre in Michael's honour in the town.