Celebrate Diversity
Pasadena is full of diverse backgrounds, cultures, and history. Get to know our community by supporting unique, local businesses with experiences and stories to tell.
Cultural Experiences
Pasadena is a vibrant mosaic of cultures, where history, heritage, and community shape the city’s dynamic identity. From generations-old traditions to contemporary expressions of art, food, and storytelling, Pasadena offers countless ways to engage with its rich cultural fabric.
Exploring the city means integrating your visit with the experiences, voices, and contributions of Black, Asian American and Pacific Islander, Latino and Hispanic, and LGBTQ+ communities. Whether through local businesses, cultural landmarks, or annual celebrations, each experience is an opportunity to connect, learn, and appreciate the diverse perspectives that make Pasadena so unique.
LGBTQ+
Pasadena has long been a welcoming space for the LGBTQ+ community, with inclusive events, LGBTQ-owned businesses, and historic contributions to civil rights movements. From Pride celebrations to queer-friendly art spaces and nightlife, the city fosters a culture of acceptance, visibility, and joy for all.
Black Culture
Pasadena Black history is deeply woven into the city’s identity, from early Black pioneers who fought for civil rights to generations of entrepreneurs, artists, and community leaders. The Pasadena Robinson Memorial honors Jackie and Mack Robinson, whose achievements in sports and activism broke barriers and shaped the city’s history. The annual Black History Parade and Festival brings the community together in a vibrant celebration of culture and heritage. These are just a few ways to experience Pasadena’s Black culture—discover more through local landmarks, events, and Black-owned businesses.
AAPI Culture
Home to a thriving Asian American and Pacific Islander community, Pasadena offers an array of cultural experiences, from the storied history of the USC Pacific Asia Museum to authentic culinary destinations and vibrant festivals. Whether celebrating the Lunar New Year or exploring traditional and contemporary art, the city provides a deep connection to AAPI heritage.
Hispanic & Latino Culture
With Pasadena’s Hispanic population making up 35.3% of the city, Latino heritage is deeply woven into its cultural landscape. From the Latino Heritage Parade and Festival, which has been a cornerstone of the community since 1999, to family-friendly events at Villa Parke Community Center or Cinco De Mayo celebrations, the city offers numerous ways to celebrate Latino culture. Visitors can explore Hispanic art at Jack Rutberg Fine Arts, enjoy authentic Mexican flavors at Anaya’s Restaurant, or attend cultural programs at La Pintoresca Branch Library.
More to Discover
LGBTQ-Owned
Pride Month takes place in June every year, but protecting, respecting, and supporting the LGBTQIA community happens every single day in Pasadena. Help us bring awareness and love to our local LGBTQ-Owned businesses by shopping and dining locally.
Things to Do
4 Ways to Experience Pasadena’s Indigenous Heritage
The land now called Pasadena exists on the ancestral lands of the Gabrielino-Tongva and Kizh Nation peoples, who still call this region home.
Celebrate Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage
Pasadena is your gateway to one of the biggest hubs of Asian Pacific American culture - the San Gabriel Valley. AAPI heritage is celebrated here all year long, with frequent reminders of the delicious, beautiful, and enriching contributions that these communities have made to our city and beyond.
Black History Parade & Festival
Plan your experience at the annual Black History Parade and Festival with our guide on the official date, event features, parade route, and more.
Celebrate Hispanic and Latino Heritage Month
In Pasadena, Hispanic and Latino Heritage Month in September and October is a city-wide celebration of the quintessential Southern Californian communities that enrich our community's past, present, and future.
