Things to Do
Top 5 Family-Friendly Things to Do in Pasadena
There’s so much to see and do with children in Pasadena, from world-class museums and botanical gardens to live theaters and music festivals.
Pasadena Fall Festival
Gather your family for an afternoon of fun at Pasadena’s free Fall Festival.
Celebrate the season at this free family event that blends autumn traditions with California sunshine. With lively carnival games, costume contests, and live entertainment, this annual festival creates a perfect fall afternoon in Pasadena.
Event Details
Mark your calendar for Saturday, October 25, 2025, when Victory Park (2575 Paloma Street) transforms into a hub of fall fun. The festival runs from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm, giving families three hours of nonstop activities, treats, and entertainment.
Top Experiences
Designed with kids in mind, the Fall Festival features plenty of family-friendly activities to keep families entertained all afternoon.
- Costume Contests - Kids can show off their creativity by dressing as their favorite character, crafting a clever DIY outfit, or pulling together a group costume for the family. With so many imaginative entries, the contests are a highlight of the day.
- Carnival Games - Step right up to play a variety of classic carnival games! Children of all ages will love the playful challenges and the thrill of winning prizes.
- Live Entertainment - Watch performances that keep the park filled with music and excitement.
- Free Food - Snack stations make it easy to grab a treat while you wander from one activity to the next.
Local Tip: Have a fun idea for a costume but don’t have all the pieces? Explore Pasadena’s vintage vault to dig through racks of retro jackets, dresses, and quirky accessories to craft a costume that stands out.
More Ways to Enjoy Fall in Pasadena
The fun doesn’t end when the Fall Festival wraps up! From haunted tours to cozy coffee shop stops, Autumn is bursting with community celebrations and unique experiences you won’t find anywhere else.
- Fall Festivals & Activities - Fill your itinerary with these special events and festivals, seasonal markets, and fun activities that highlight the season.
- Haunted Locations - Explore Pasadena’s spooky side with visits to horror movie filming sites, including Halloween and Poltergeist II, and eerie spots rumored to be home to ghosts.
- Halloween Fun - Throughout October, local attractions, like Kidspace Children’s Museum and Descanso Gardens, host special Halloween programs, adding even more excitement to the season.
Turn Your Festival Visit Into a Weekend Getaway
Stay a little longer and discover how Pasadena shines in the fall. Wander through botanical gardens blooming with seasonal color, hike local trails, and choose from a wide range of accommodations designed to fit your travel style. With so many ways to celebrate the season, Pasadena turns a simple festival outing into a memorable autumn escape.
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Things to Do
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Spooky Buildings & Haunted Houses of Pasadena
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