The exiled Tibetan spiritual leader will host a three-day summit on global compassion starting Sunday in California.
Thousands are expected to attend his talks on compassion, youth leadership and climate change.
The Dalai Lama's actual birthday is on Monday.
Organisers have ordered an 8-foot (2.4-meter) birthday cake that will feature maroon-and-gold frosting.
Followers are encouraged to tweet #WithCompassion as a present to the spiritual leader.