Howard Stern -- Famous Pals Show Up For Birthday Bash Empty Handed

Howard Stern's birthday party Friday in New York was packed with celebs like Jimmy Kimmel and Gary Dell'Abate .. and most got him the same thing for his big 6-0 -- NOTHING!

The late night host and Stern producer were heading into the big bash thrown by SiriusXM Radio ... and they proudly walked in empty-handed. But they have a good explanation.

The guest list was diverse ... David Letterman, Chris Christie, Robert Downey Jr., Dave Grohl and Barbara Walters.

BTW ... we talked to Howard about his birthday wish list ... and it's pretty cheap. Check out the video.

Happy birthday Howard!