Wednesday, February 12, 2025

Festival of Hope: Fire-Stricken Pasadena Turns Black History Celebration into Community Lifeline

Resources and cultural celebration merge as historic event adapts to crisis

In response to the devastating Eaton fire, planners of Pasadena’s 2025 Black History Month Festival have decided to abandon its traditional parade format to combine cultural celebration with essential community services.

The reimagined event, organized by the Black History Parade & Festival Planning Committee and the City, will offer comprehensive support services at Robinson Park.

“We are focused on supporting our community through the provision of needed resources for those who are surviving through the Eaton fire experience,” said Pixie Boyden, Co-Chair of the Black History Planning Committee.

The festival will be running from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 15, at 1081 N. Fair Oaks Ave., and will feature performances by former parade participants.

The transformed celebration includes an expanded Kids Zone initiative, a “Then and Now” historical exhibit, and local artist performances hosted by James Farr for approximately 1,000 expected attendees.

“It is a hard time for our children and we want to be sure to allow them some space to just be kids for a while,” Boyden said.

Multiple government and community organizations, including the Federal Emergency Management Agency and Los Angeles County Public Works, will provide immediate assistance to residents affected by the Eaton fire crisis.

“All of the food that will be provided to the community will be free,” Boyden said. “Food insecurity is a big project of mine and I am thrilled we can address this issue in our own community through the Festival.”

The festival, which traditionally centered around a parade that was canceled for 2025 due to the fire’s impact, remains part of Pasadena’s broader month-long celebration.

“Having resources that are accessible, relevant, and supportive of where our community is in their very long process of healing is important,” Boyden said.

The event maintains its cultural programming while addressing immediate crisis needs through various educational programs and support services throughout February.