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Parks After Dark Kicks Off 15th Season Thursday at Robinson Park

The free summer program adds Caltech-led science sessions for the first time in its history

Published on Thursday, July 9, 2026 | 6:16 am
 

[photo credit; City of Pasadena]
Pasadena’s Parks After Dark program opens its 15th season Thursday with a kickoff festival at Robinson Park, 1081 N. Fair Oaks Ave., featuring a softball tournament, basketball competition and futsal clinics, according to the city’s Parks, Recreation and Community Services Department (PRCS) and the program flyer. The festival runs 6 to 9 p.m. and also includes free food, inflatable games, arts and crafts and a live DJ.

The department describes the program as transforming local parks into gathering spaces where residents can connect with neighbors, stay active and enjoy summer evenings, with activities running through August 14, according to the city’s June 24 press release. New this year, the program will feature hands-on STEM activities led by scientists and engineers from Caltech at select events — described by Pasadena Now as the first time Caltech has taken part in the program’s 15-year run, according to PRCS.

Parks After Dark runs Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays through August 14, with programming that includes Movies in the Park on Fridays from July 10 through August 8; a Foam and Glow Frenzy on July 16 at Villa Parke Community Center; a World Cup Soccer Tournament with Dena United on July 24 at Robinson Park; Aztec Dance Toltecayotl on July 25 at Villa Parke Community Center; a Teen Neon Party on July 30 at La Pintoresca Teen Education Center; and Aqua Boogie Nights, evening recreation swims on Saturdays from July 11 through August 8 at Kennedy and Villa Parke pools. The program also includes adult and youth basketball leagues and adult soccer leagues throughout the summer.

All activities are free unless otherwise noted, and registration is required only for select programs and leagues; the city notes that activities are subject to change. A full schedule is available at CityOfPasadena.net/Parks-And-Rec or by calling (626) 744-6530, according to PRCS. Residents seeking accessibility accommodations can contact CSC@CityOfPasadena.net or call (626) 744-7311.

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