Black History Festival to Go On; Parade, Car Show Canceled

The annual car show held every year as part of the Black History Festival has been canceled.

“Out of respect to our various car/bike clubs in the city, the annual car show has been postponed, as many members have suffered damage and/or destruction of their classic cars,” the City said in a statement.

According to a statement released on Wednesday, the Black History Parade & Festival Planning Committee and the City hope to continue the tradition in future celebrations.

The cancellation is part of a temporary revamp of the Black History Festival due to the devastation caused by the Eaton Canyon fire.

The festival will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, February 15, at Robinson Park, 1081 N. Fair Oaks Ave.

This year’s Black History Festival will focus on recovery within the community amidst the ongoing tragedy caused by the Eaton Fire.

“Bringing together various resources to support our community in this unprecedented time of need, as well as providing a bit of joy is what the committee hopes to provide,” said Pixie Boyden, Co-chair of the Black History Parade & Festival Planning Committee. “The Altadena/Pasadena community is stronger than the current circumstances it finds itself, and while it will take time to heal from this unbelievable tragedy, the Black History Planning Committee hopes to support its progress towards healing.”

The fire has scorched more than 14,000 acres and all but destroyed Altadena, leaving many residents homeless or displaced.

The City’s Black History Parade, the oldest Black History parade in Southern California, has been canceled.

The festival typically begins after the parade but will proceed this year without it.

Performers previously registered in the parade will have the opportunity to perform at Robinson Park between 10—11:30 a.m., with festival activities to follow until 3 p.m.

All festival activities will be free and include entertainment, family-friendly activities, and community resources.

Vendors are encouraged to apply, but the sale of items will not be permitted this year.

Instead, the committee is seeking vendors that offer public assistance or other services free of charge to support community needs.

Food will be available to the community but not sold; food vendors who choose to help address food insecurity within our community and generously distribute food may register. Vendor applications are encouraged via the CivicRec system available at CityofPasadena.net/Reserve under the “Special Events” tab.

Support is available for those in need; please visit CityofPasadena.net/Eaton-Fire for information and resources.