Tuesday, April 14, 2026

Older Americans Month Celebration Planned for Victory Park

The May 20 event is expected to feature live performances, fitness demonstrations, and dozens of exhibitors serving older residents

The Senior Commission is scheduled to review and approve updates to its work plan on Tuesday, including the latest planning details for the commission’s annual Older Americans Month celebration, a citywide event set for May 20 at Victory Park in Pasadena.

The event, planned from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., is being organized by the commission’s Ad Hoc Committee on Objective #1, which includes Commissioners Chelsea Mason, Dion Ferguson, Katie Brandon, Mari Berkemeier, and Jeanine Hernandez. As a strictly advisory body to the City Council, the Senior Commission’s event planning is carried out in coordination with city staff and depends on city approvals and logistical support.

According to work plan updates presented at the commission’s March meeting, Commissioner Brandon reported that the event has secured 18 sponsors and in-kind supporters and has raised $16,900 to date, not including city support. Brandon stated that additional sponsorships are still being sought to support remaining event costs. The committee had previously noted it was seeking to raise an additional $7,000 beyond the $13,900 reported in February.

Exhibitor outreach has received a strong response, with approximately 35 exhibitors confirmed and about 40 expected to participate, including nonprofit organizations, businesses, and government entities, according to Commissioner Brandon’s March report.

Commissioner Berkemeier reported that the main stage schedule has been confirmed and will include opening remarks, a senior fitness demonstration from the Rose Bowl Aquatics Center, chair yoga through the Parks, Recreation and Community Services Department, Dance for Joy from Lineage Performing Arts Center, and an adult ensemble performance from the Pasadena Conservatory of Music. Commissioner Mason reported that the committee would like opening remarks to be offered in both English and Spanish.

The commission previously allocated $1,360 from its Fiscal Year 2026 budget toward the event at its March meeting. Commissioner Mason reported that Starbucks will return as an in-kind sponsor, providing complimentary coffee and pastries for event participants. The event website is live at PasadenaVillage.org/events and includes a list of confirmed sponsors, according to Commissioner Brandon. Registration for the free event is encouraged so attendees can receive reminders, parking instructions, and additional event information.

Staff member Lilia Lopez-Rodriguez, Program Coordinator I, reported that transportation will be coordinated from the Jackie Robinson Community Center and Villa Parke as in prior years and that outreach will be sent to city department directors to invite participation as event resources. Lopez-Rodriguez also confirmed that the event flyer will be included in the spring and summer editions of the Recreation Guide.

The Senior Commission is scheduled to meet at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, April 14, at the Jackie Robinson Community Center, 1020 North Fair Oaks Avenue, in Pasadena. For more information call (626) 744-7311 or visit https://www.cityofpasadena.net/commissions/agendas/.