Pasadena’s 27th Annual Latino Heritage Festival returns today with a reimagined format that foregoes the traditional parade in favor of an expanded celebration at Centennial Square. The event, themed “A Proud Past, a Hopeful Future” (“Un Pasado con Orgullo, un Futuro con Esperanza”), reflects the community’s adaptation to current issues affecting local Latino residents.
The festival will take place Saturday, October 11 from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. in front of Pasadena City Hall at 100 N. Garfield Avenue. Organizers designed this year’s approach to build community spirit through music, food, and cultural engagement rather than the parade format used in previous years.
Mayor Victor Gordo praised the event’s importance as a celebration of community strength and unity.
The evening’s entertainment lineup features Grammy Award-winning band Ozomatli alongside Los Jornaleros del Norte. Student bands from Pasadena Unified School District will also perform. Traditional dance groups will present cultural performances throughout the event.
Festival attractions span multiple generations and interests. Families can enjoy children’s activities including arts and crafts, jumpers, and games. An artisanal marketplace will feature handmade crafts, art, jewelry, and cultural items created by local artisans.
Latin American food vendors will offer cuisine representing the community’s diverse heritage. A classic car show adds another dimension to the festivities. Community resource booths will provide information and services to attendees.
The festival represents one component of Pasadena’s broader Latino Heritage Month celebrations, which run through October 24. Additional programming includes concha-making workshops and a Day of the Dead celebration.
The Pasadena Latino Heritage Committee coordinates the event with support from Centro Comunitario Villa Parke.
The celebration at Centennial Square honors the resilience, pride, and enduring spirit of Pasadena’s Latino community. Admission is free and open to the public, welcoming all community members to participate in the cultural celebration.
For more information, call Villa Parke Community Center at (626) 744-6530.
