Pasadena Fall Guide: Festivals & Things to Do
Experience Pasadena’s fall festivals and activities, from fall-inspired get-togethers to illuminated pumpkin strolls.
Embrace the pumpkin spice, festive events, and pleasant California weather with our ultimate Pasadena fall guide. Along with classical autumnal celebrations and activities, we’ve also got you covered for family outings, date nights, and hangouts with friends, featuring a Chappell Roan concert, local markets, garden adventures, and more.
Fall Festivals & Events
Carved at Descanso Gardens
Intricately carved pumpkins and light displays are a couple of the impressive and breathtaking highlights at Carved at Descanso Gardens. In the fall, the gardens are transformed into an otherworldly Halloween scene, where illuminated spectacles provide Instagram-worthy backdrops. | Dates: October 3 - 30, 2025 (6:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.) | Location: Descanso Gardens (1418 Descanso Dr)
Artazan Handcraft Market
The Artazan Handcraft Market brings local art, live entertainment, and delectable bites together over a two-day celebration. Held at the Pasadena Convention Center, this annual event features one-of-a-kind crafts and accessories from independent artisans and businesses. Treat yourself to wine and chocolate sampling, and then stroll through displays of eye-catching goods. Admission is $8 and $10 at the door. | Dates: October 11 - 12, 2025 (10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.) | Location: Pasadena Convention Center (300 E Green St)
Pasadena Latino Heritage Festival
Don’t miss the chance to celebrate the annual Pasadena Latino Heritage Festival! This celebration attracts thousands of people with a high-spirited festival in front of Pasadena City Hall. Prepare for flavorful bites, family-friendly activities, and live performances. | Date: October 11, 2025 | Location: 100 Garfield Ave
Chappell Roan at Rose Bowl Stadium
Calling all Chappell Roan fans! Come to the Rose Bowl Stadium and see one of the biggest popstars in the world. Chappell Roan will be performing her Visions of Damsels & Other Dangerous Things Pop-Up Shows at the Rose Bowl’s Brookside. | Dates: October 10 - 11, 2025 | Location: Rose Bowl Stadium (1001 Rose Bowl Dr)
Jackalope Art Festival
More than 200 artisans will be selling their wares at this outdoor art festival! Elevate your wardrobe, envision new home decorating ideas, and connect with local artists at the Jackalope Art Festival. This arts celebration is dog-friendly and features activities for all ages. | Dates: November 15 - 16, 2025 (10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.) | Location: Central Park (275 S Raymond Ave)
Autumnal Things to Do
Pasadena Coffee Shops: Pumpkin Spice Specials
Pumpkin spice flavors are meant to be savored. It’s that first sip of fall, where sweet pumpkin and cinnamon notes accompany roasted coffee creaminess. Explore an array of pumpkin spice latte goodness from local cafes and coffee shops! And if you’re ready to brave a potentially long line, we recommend heading to TikTok-famous Badash Bakery to find scrumptious seasonal specials (though we won’t blame you for grabbing the renowned matcha cinnamon rolls, too).
Shop ‘Til You Drop at Local Markets
There’s nothing better than taking in the pleasant fall weather, so why not soak in all the sunshine at the Pasadena Farmer’s Market? Take home the freshest seasonal produce and other mouthwatering pantry goods while supporting local farmers and businesses. Keep an eye out for fall ingredients like pomegranates and squash. Running every Tuesday and Saturday, the Pasadena Farmers Market is a bustling hub for fruits, vegetables, artisanal gems, and plants. And if you’re looking for secondhand treasures, we recommend exploring the vast offerings of the Rose Bowl Flea Market on the second Sunday of every month.
Leaf Peeping at Pasadena’s Gardens
Pasadena is brimming with an array of stunning gardens, where butterflies, stone lanterns, roses, and peacocks abound. Vibrant foliage is everywhere in our gardens, and because of the moderate Californian weather, you can see the true range of natural beauty that goes beyond autumnal oranges and yellows. Take in the serene ambience of gorgeous botanical places such as the Los Angeles Arboretum, Descanso Gardens, Storrier Stearns, and Arlington Garden.
With festivals, concerts, markets, and pumpkins, fall in Pasadena is a magical time. If you’re seeking more things to do in the autumn, check out our guides on activities, restaurants, and events in Pasadena.
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