In the shadow of Pasadena’s iconic domed City Hall, a different kind of rebuilding begins today. Not of structures, but of spirits.
The Youth Empowerment Festival transforms the civic center into a tableau of resilience, where families affected by January’s devastating Eaton Fire can find both practical resources and moments of joy — commodities that have been in short supply since the disaster ravaged more than 14,000 acres and displaced thousands.
The celebration of resilience, community spirit, and youthful empowerment runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Pasadena City Hall, 100 Garfield Ave. The event is specifically designed for families with children and young adults aged 0-24, especially those who have been affected by the aftermath of the January 2025 wildfire.
The day-long event positions young voices at its center through a carefully curated program of youth panel discussions and performances. Throughout the day, attendees will enjoy a vibrant selection of musical acts and live performances, showcasing local talent and uplifting entertainment to create an atmosphere of joy and celebration.
Between performances, attendees move through a landscape of carnival games and resource booths. Children can try their hand at classic games like ring toss, bean bag toss, and more, all designed to bring out the playful spirit of attendees young and old.
The youth panel discussions offer a platform where young leaders will share their experiences, thoughts, and perspectives on resilience, empowerment, and recovery in the wake of the Eaton Fire. These discussions aim to inspire attendees and encourage an exchange of ideas that can help strengthen the community as a whole.
For those interested in personal development, there will be empowerment workshops focused on helping young people cultivate life skills, set goals, and develop the confidence needed to face challenges head-on. These workshops are not just for youth, but also for parents and community members looking to support the growth and success of the younger generation.
“We’re creating a space where healing happens alongside celebration,” said a representative from the Loveland Community Development Corp., the grassroots organization founded in 2018 that has emerged as a pivotal force in the region’s recovery efforts.
No festival is complete without food, and the Youth Empowerment Festival will have plenty of delicious options to keep attendees fueled throughout the day. A range of food vendors offering various cuisines will be present to satisfy all tastes, from quick snacks to hearty meals.
The event also features community resource booths, offering valuable information on local services and programs available to help those still recovering from the fire. Whether attendees are seeking mental health support, housing resources, or educational opportunities, these booths will provide the connections and guidance needed for continued healing and progress.
The giveaways at the event will also be a big draw. Attendees can expect to receive a variety of free items, including educational materials, health kits, and more, all designed to support the continued recovery of the community and promote well-being.
The Youth Empowerment Festival takes place today from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Pasadena City Hall, 100 Garfield Ave. For more information about the festival or LLCDC’s other programs, visit their website at www.llcdc.org/altadena or contact them at info@llcdc.org.
