Pasadena Celebrates Latino Heritage Month With Vibrant Cultural Events

Pasadena is commemorating National Latino Heritage Month with a diverse array of free events, spotlighting the histories and contributions of Americans with Latin American ancestry. The celebration, running from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15, features parades, concerts, storytimes and craft workshops across the city.

The month-long observance kicks off with Fiestas Patrias on Friday, Sept. 13, a family-friendly event at Villa Parke Community Center showcasing Latin American culture through live music and traditional dances. The festivities honor the independence days of several Latin American countries, including Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua.

On Wednesday, Sept. 25, at 4 p.m., the La Pintoresca Branch Library will host INCA, a Peruvian ensemble, presenting a musical journey through Peru’s diverse heritage. The performance will feature Andean, Criollo and Afro-Peruvian styles, highlighting unique instrumentation from various regions of the country.

A special Movie Night featuring “A Million Miles Away” is scheduled for Friday, Sept. 27, at 7 p.m. at Madison Elementary School. The film follows José Hernandez’s journey from farm worker to astronaut.

The 26th Annual Latino Heritage Parade and Festival, a cornerstone of the celebration, is scheduled for Oct. 5. The parade begins at 10 a.m. at Los Robles Ave. and Buckeye Street, concluding at Pasadena City Hall, where a festival will take place from noon to 4 p.m.

Throughout the month, the city’s Public Affairs team will spotlight Latino-owned businesses in Pasadena on social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram and Twitter (X). This initiative aims to highlight local entrepreneurs and their contributions to the community’s economic fabric.

Libraries across Pasadena are also participating, offering special storytimes, craft sessions and cultural presentations throughout the month. These events cater to various age groups, ensuring participation from all segments of the community. Library programming is sponsored by The Friends of the Pasadena Public Library.

Additional events include a Latino Heritage Month Preschool Storytime on Sept. 25, Fiesta La Pintoresca on Oct. 2, and “De Colores: Celebrating Latino Diversity Through Music” on Oct. 12. A Community Ofrenda will be on display from Oct. 21 to Nov. 4 at Santa Catalina Branch Library.

For those interested in hands-on experiences, several workshops are available. On Oct. 12, Villa Parke Community Center will host a “Paint and Aguas Frescas” event for adults, combining art with traditional beverages.

A Pan Dulce “Concha” Workshop for ages 16 and up will be held on Oct. 19, teaching participants how to make the traditional sweet bread. Registration for both workshops begins on Sept. 23 for Pasadena residents and Sept. 30 for non-residents.

The celebration extends beyond October, with a Dia de los Muertos event scheduled for Nov. 1 at Villa Parke Community Center. This centuries-old holiday will be commemorated with dance performances, arts and crafts, food, and traditional “ofrendas” honoring deceased loved ones.

For a list of programs relating to Latino Heritage Month, visit https://www.cityofpasadena.net/library/ and https://www.cityofpasadena.net/parks-and-rec/.