A November 8 launch is planned for a first-of-its-kind community festival celebrating the life, legacy and imagination of Pasadena-born author Octavia E. Butler, with events spanning Pasadena and Altadena through Dec. 5.
Titled Octavia Fest 2025: A Celebration of Imagination, Discovery, and Justice, organizer Big Bowl of Ideas said the monthlong series will feature bike rides, performances, readings and collective dreaming sessions rooted in Butler’s themes of Multicultural Futurism and visionary storytelling.
The BIPOC-owned creative public affairs firm is presenting the festival in partnership with Pasadena District 1 Councilmember Tyron Hampton, Active SGV, Octavia’s Bookshelf, the Pasadena NAACP and other local organizations.
According to a statement from Big Bowl of Ideas, Octavia Fest seeks to unite youth and residents in imagining the future they want to see, particularly in the wake of the Eaton Fire and ongoing challenges affecting BIPOC communities across Pasadena and greater Los Angeles.
Among the scheduled events is “Octavia’s Pasadena Bike Ride,” a communal cycling experience in North Pasadena that will incorporate live performances, readings and art inspired by Butler’s legacy, Big Bowl of Ideas said. Additional programming includes a reading performance of the book Star Child, collective dreaming sessions, and other activations designed to seed joy and spark change.
“I am proud to honor the bright light of Octavia E. Butler here at home in the community where she grew up and honed her craft,” said Councilmember Tyron Hampton, who represents Pasadena’s First District. “It is my hope that Octavia Fest marks one of many efforts to recognize and build upon her enduring legacy in the years to come.”
OCTAVIA FEST SIGNATURE EVENTS
Octavia’s Pasadena Bike Ride
Saturday, November 8 | 9–11 a.m. | Begins at Around the Cycle
Let’s riiiide and learn! This 5-mile biking adventure through North Pasadena traces the landmarks of Octavia E. Butler’s life and inspiration — from La Pintoresca Library to John Muir High School and more. Presented in partnership with Around the Cycle, the ride includes live mini-performances, storytelling stops, and giveaways. Supported by Pasadena Councilmember Tyron Hampton, Active SGV, and the Pasadena Complete Streets Coalition.
After the Fire: Collective Visioning Sessions
Saturday, November 15 | Locations in Altadena & North Pasadena
How do we imagine the future of our community 50 years from now? What are the values that guide it and shape it? These interactive sessions invite residents, families, and local leaders to dream boldly about long-term rebuilding and resilience — sparked by Futurists of Color and guided by conversations among longtime residents, youth, artists, business owners, and organizers.
“Star Child” Teen Reading Series
Friday, December 5 | Octavia E. Butler Magnet School
In partnership with the National Education Association and Octavia’s Bookshelf, this youth reading program introduces teens to Star Child by Ibi Zoboi, a literary celebration of Octavia E. Butler’s life and influence. A featured guest reader will lead discussions, and teachers and parents will receive follow-up guides for classroom or home use.
Afrofuturistic Roller Boogie Affair
Date & Time TBA | Venice
Roll into the future! This lively skating celebration invites guests to dress as Afrofuturistic heroes, cosmic characters, or intergalactic explorers, grooving to a DJ mix that spans from Parliament-Funkadelic to Janelle Monáe. It’s an evening of joy, creativity, and community in motion.
