Remembering the King of Pop on his birthday

(CNN) - In honor of what would've been Michael Jackson's 54th birthday, the hometown of the late pop icon is throwing a four-day long celebration.

Jackson's three kids, Paris, Blanket and Prince, along with his mom Katherine and sister La Toya, have been spotted by TMZ in Gary, Indiana, for the event, which launched Wednesday.

Wednesday evening saw a candlelight ceremony outside of the Jackson family home; his kids are expected to throw the first pitch at a RailCats game Thursday; and a red carpet reception will be held on Friday in honor of his mother.

On Saturday, fans are invited to attend a concert featuring a tribute artist and the Gratitude Project, among others, at the West Side Theatre Guild. A ticket to the matinee show costs $25, while entry to the evening program will run fans $35 a ticket.

Jackson's memory, of course, will extend far beyond August 29. Around Thanksgiving, ABC will air Spike Lee's documentary, "BAD25," which focuses on the elements that created Jackson's seminal album, "BAD."

The classic's 25th anniversary will be honored on September 18, and Lee's doc supplies the "first ever, behind-the-scenes film project to chronicle a Michael Jackson album and tour," ABC said in a statement.

"This will be a very special Thanksgiving for all families to enjoy the genius of Michael Jackson," added filmmaker Lee. "Big thanks to ABC for allowing people to witness the making of Michael Jackson's 'BAD' album. Shamon."