Dick Van Dyke Melts Hearts Singing “Happy Birthday” to 6-Year-Old Fan Just Weeks Before Turning 100 Himself!
The legendary Mary Poppins and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang star brought joy to fans once again during a heartwarming moment at his charity event on October 5 — where he led an impromptu birthday sing-along for a 6-year-old boy named Tristian.
The little fan, who traveled all the way from Connecticut with his mother, held tight to his beloved Mary Poppins and Bert dolls as he met his childhood hero at the Vandy High Tea, a charity fundraiser hosted by Van Dyke and his wife, Arlene Silver, at their Malibu home, lovingly known as “Vandy Manor.”
A Birthday Surprise from a Hollywood Legend
During the event, Dick Van Dyke, full of life and laughter, gathered the crowd to sing “Happy Birthday” to young Tristian. But he didn’t stop there. The 99-year-old icon went on to perform a joyful medley that included “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang,” “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious,” and even The Dick Van Dyke Show theme — leaving guests in awe of his timeless energy and spirit.
“He was so sharp, in great health, and said he’s feeling good,” one attendee told PEOPLE. “He was laughing almost the entire time and couldn’t have enjoyed himself more.”
The room was filled with laughter, music, and a shared sense of nostalgia — proof that even after nearly a century, Dick Van Dyke’s magic continues to shine.
A Celebration of Art, Music, and Legacy
The Vandy High Tea was organized to raise funds for The Van Dyke Endowment of the Arts and The Dick Van Dyke Museum, which is currently in development. Produced by Chris Isaacson Presents and hosted by Stu Shostak, the elegant afternoon featured live performances by The Vantastix, Dan West, and LoveyDove — all celebrating Van Dyke’s lifelong devotion to performance and creativity.
Guests enjoyed tea sandwiches, desserts by Monrose Catering, and even a custom cocktail called the “Fitzwilly Fizz,” named after one of Van Dyke’s classic films. The event also included a Q&A session where attendees shared stories and memories about the star’s decades-long career.
“These unique and intimate gatherings celebrate the life and legacy of Mr. Dick Van Dyke with Arlene Van Dyke and special guests,” read a post promoting the event.
Overcoming Challenges with Grace
The celebration came just months after Van Dyke had to cancel a previous engagement — the Vandy Camp event at the Arlene & Dick Van Dyke Theater at Malibu High School in June — due to illness.
At the time, Arlene Silver addressed the crowd with honesty and warmth, saying,
“I have to inform you that Dick is not up to coming to celebrate with us today. When you’re 99 and a half years old, you have good days and bad days … and unfortunately, today is not a good day for him. He’s so sad he can’t be here.”
Her heartfelt message only deepened fans’ admiration for the couple, who have built a relationship centered on love, laughter, and resilience.
Looking Ahead to a Milestone 100th Birthday
Now, as Dick Van Dyke prepares to celebrate his 100th birthday on December 13, the beloved entertainer shows no signs of slowing down. With his trademark smile, sharp humor, and boundless optimism, he continues to inspire generations.
In a recent PEOPLE interview, Van Dyke shared his philosophy on aging:
“I love what I do for a living. That’s the key — doing what you love keeps you young.”
From singing to storytelling, his energy remains infectious. Whether he’s performing for a child celebrating their sixth birthday or preparing for his own 100th, Dick Van Dyke reminds us all that joy, kindness, and creativity are the true secrets to a long and meaningful life.
