City of Pasadena Celebrates Black History Month 2026

PASADENA, Calif. - The City of Pasadena will commemorate Black History Month by honoring the achievements and contributions of African Americans and recognizing their central role in shaping our nation's history. Throughout February, Pasadena Public Library and Friends of the Pasadena Public Library, Parks, Recreation, and Community Services Department and the Pasadena Black History Committee, Pasadena Public Health, Pasadena Transit, and City Manager's Office, Communications and Marketing Division, and Economic Development Division are offering a month-long series of programs, events, and activities for all ages in February. All programs and events are free unless otherwise noted.

Black History Month provides an opportunity to reflect on history, celebrate culture, and uplift the voices and stories that continue to shape our community today. Through educational programming, cultural events, and supportive services, the City invites the community to come together in learning, celebration, and connection.

Programs

For all ages unless specified.

Black Infant Health (BIH) Program

Year-round • Monday-Thursday 8 a.m. - 5:30 p.m., Friday 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. • 1845 N. Fair Oaks Ave.

For 35 years, the Black Infant Health (BIH) Program has been a cornerstone of support in the Pasadena community. Dedicated to reducing disparities among birthing people, BIH strives to connect, empower, and uplift families through culturally affirming care. The program is now enrolling pregnant and postpartum birthing people across the Greater San Gabriel Valley, offering group sessions and personalized one-on-one support to help participants thrive.

For more information or to inquire about eligibility, please call (626) 744-6155 or complete the online interest form at bit.ly/BIHForm .

Eat the Culture: African Foodways & Traditions

Saturday, Feb. 7 • 11 a.m. • Linda Vista Branch Library, 1281 Bryant St.
Saturday, Feb. 14 • 10:30 a.m. • Hastings Branch Library, 3325 E. Orange Grove Blvd.

African cooking techniques, traditions, and flavors have traveled all over the world. This culinary diaspora was shaped initially by the brutalities of the transatlantic slave trade, which forced African people separated from their homelands to retain and reinvent traditional dishes, find and experiment with substitute ingredients, and pass down to their children the cultural significance of particular foods to nourish the soul as well as the body. In this workshop, Chef Denà Brummer will share the delights, comforts, revelations, and recipes of Black foodways. For ages 18+.

To attend, sign up at CityOfPasadena.net/Library/Calendar/.

Black-owned Businesses Spotlight Series

Month-long series • Social Media

The City's Communications and Marketing Division and Economic Development Division under the City Manager's Office are set to spotlight Black-owned businesses in Pasadena. Follow along as we highlight local gems on social media, including Facebook and Instagram @CityOfPasadena, and Twitter (X) @PasadenaGov.

Events

For all ages unless specified.

Jackie Robinson's Birthday Celebration

Friday, Jan. 30 • 11 a.m.- 1 p.m. • Jackie Robinson Community Center, 1020 N. Fair Oaks Ave.

You know Jackie Robinson as a baseball legend, but there's so much more to his story. Join us for a fun and interactive program led by Library Technician Tiffany Dueñas and Pasadena History Librarian Young Phong. We'll explore Jackie Robinson's childhood in Pasadena, the sports he loved before baseball, and some surprising moments from his early life. Using a myth vs fact style, you'll get to know Jackie Robinson in a whole new way. There will be birthday snacks and a tour of the Jackie Robinson baseball exhibit. This event is hosted by both the Pasadena Public Library and Pasadena Parks, Recreation and Community Services Department.

Transit Equity Day

Wednesday, Feb. 4

Pasadena Transit and Dial-A-Ride are offering free rides system-wide on Wednesday, February 4, in honor of Transit Equity Day, celebrated in honor of Rosa Parks' birthday. Transit Equity Day is a national day of action to commemorate the birthday of Rosa Parks by declaring that public transit is a civil right. Ms. Parks, an iconic civil rights leader, refused to give up her seat on a bus in Montgomery, Alabama, in protest and to demand an end to segregation on transit systems.

Celebrating the Life of Bridget "Biddy" Mason

Friday, Feb. 20 • 4 p.m. • La Pintoresca Branch Library, 1355 N. Raymond Ave.

Lorinda Hawkins Smith's theatrical presentation brings to life the extraordinary story of Bridget "Biddy" Mason, a formerly enslaved woman who became a nurse, real estate entrepreneur, philanthropist, and a foundational figure in Los Angeles history. Mason (1818-1891) won her freedom in a landmark California court case and became one of the first Black women to own property in Los Angeles, using her wealth to support her community. Join us for a celebration of resilience, community, and empowerment. For ages 5+.

Black History Festival

Saturday, Feb. 21 • 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. • Robinson Park, 1081 N. Fair Oaks Ave.

Join local schools, community groups, elected officials, dignitaries, neighbors, and friends at the 44th Annual Black History Festival at Robinson Park, 1081 N. Fair Oaks Ave. This event is sponsored by the City of Pasadena and the Pasadena Black History Planning Committee. The festival features live entertainment, youth performances, community resource booths, food trucks, and tons of fun! For more information, please visit CityOfPasadena.net/Parks-And-Rec .

Celebrate Black History from 1865 to Juneteenth!

Friday, Feb. 27 • 4 p.m. • Hastings Branch Library, 3255 E. Orange Grove Blvd.

Join us for a special Black History Month program featuring the talented artist John Barge! Discover the powerful journey of Black history from 1865 to Juneteenth as Barge guides students through this crucial period, highlighting key historical dates and milestones in a unique, engaging presentation.

Every student will receive an illustrated coloring book featuring the events discussed, and then choose a historical event page and bring it to life by coloring their own piece of history. For ages 5 - 19.