Hundreds of fans gathered at Los Angeles City Hall to celebrate the much awaited “Kobe Bryant Day” this afternoon.

Contrary to popular belief, the occasion was more than just symbolic as Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti invited the newly-retired Bryant to attend the ceremony that bears his name.

Chants of “MVP” and “Kobe!” didn't take long to spike up as Bryant arrived to receive the honor.

Jerseys, shirts, and hats with Bryant's name and likeness could be seen all around the hall.

The committee, along with the fans in attendance, were treated to an encore showing of Bryant's last game as a Laker, where he dropped 60 points against the Utah Jazz.

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“Kobe Bryant has taught all of us in Los Angeles that this city has a fighting spirit,” said Garcetti.

“When I'm in China and I say I'm the mayor of Los Angeles, they say, ‘Oh, where Kobe's from?',” he added.

The audience took the chance to sing happy birthday to their idol, who turned 38 yesterday:

“It's a very surreal experience to have a day named after you,” said Bryant.

If anyone deserves to have a day named after himself, it surely is him.