Report: Convention Center Sheltered 1,140 Fire Evacuees for 42 Days

The Pasadena Convention Center transformed into a lifeline during the Eaton Fire, sheltering 1,140 displaced residents for 42 days while California’s second-most destructive wildfire raged through the region. 

The emergency response will be highlighted Tuesday when the city’s Economic Development and Technology (EDTech) Committee reviews the Pasadena Center Operating Company annual report at 5 p.m. 

From Jan. 7 through Feb. 17, the convention center operated around the clock as an evacuation center and shelter. Staff coordinated with the city, Red Cross, SodexoLive!, medical professionals and public safety officers. 

The Eaton Fire burned for 24 days, claiming 19 lives and destroying 9,400 structures, according to the Los Angeles Times. 

“This past year reminded us of what a true community looks like,” Board Chair Tyron Hampton wrote in the report. “Neighbors helping neighbors, local businesses uplifting one another.” 

The facility provided shower and laundry services, three meals daily and rigorous cleaning schedules. Staff handled the complex logistics with what CEO Michael Ross called unwavering commitment to service continuity. 

The crisis cost the convention center heavily. Eighteen groups were affected by cancellations or postponements. Five events were canceled outright. Twelve were postponed to future dates. 

Total losses reached $2.5 million in canceled business. Another $4.6 million was affected by postponements. 

Yet the center still hosted 160 events during fiscal year 2025. More than 332,000 attendees passed through its doors. Client satisfaction scored 3.86 out of 4.00. 

Visit Pasadena launched recovery campaigns to counter misinformation about the city’s readiness. The “Meetings Bloom Stronger Here” campaign addressed concerns about air quality and hotel capacity. 

“It has been a year of challenges and accomplishments,” Ross wrote.

The Pasadena Civic Auditorium recorded 185 event-use days. The Ice Skating Center welcomed nearly 50,000 public session skaters. 

Visit Pasadena booked 42,316 room nights for future business. Hotel occupancy rose 10% to 78.9%. Revenue per available room jumped nearly 14%. 

The organization earned 37 media placements in outlets including Conde Nast Traveler and People Magazine. 

Social media followers reached 81,000. Website pageviews topped 2.6 million, an 8.3% increase. 

“Together, we will continue to build on our successes,” Ross wrote.