Good morning, Pasadena. This is News N’ Roses—the newsletter that tries to cram everything happening in town into one place, kind of like me trying to stuff all my clothes into a suitcase for a two-day trip.
In Today’s News N’ Roses:
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Grants Dish Out a Boost to 57 Local Spots
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Streetfest Spotlights Pasadena’s Dining Scene
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Events This Weekend
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Live Music Lowdown – Lots of live music events this weekend!
Let’s get to it.
— Matthew Ramirez
P.S. Quick favor—if you haven’t yet, please follow @newsn_roses on Instagram. The newsletter is growing fast, and we’d love to keep building this local community with you. Thanks!
THE DIGEST
Grants Dish Out a Boost to 57 Local Spots
A tasty win for our local food scene: 57 restaurants across Pasadena and Altadena just scored $10,000 each thanks to the California Restaurant Foundation’s LA Fire Recovery Grant program. That’s over half a million bucks in direct relief to help neighborhood favorites bounce back from this year’s wildfires. From coffee shops to ramen joints, this funding is helping beloved small businesses stay open, stay strong, and keep feeding the community. Now that’s money well spent (and well seasoned).
For a complete list of recipient restaurants in L.A. County, click here.
@NEWSN_ROSES
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WHAT’S HAPPENING
Friday
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🌸 Celebrate Fridays!: Unwind at the tranquil Storrier Stearns Japanese Garden with a sunset stroll, shimmering pond reflections, and your favorite drink in hand—guests are welcome to bring wine or other beverages. Friday, July 11 from 4:00–8:00PM.
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🎬 Movies in the Park: A Minecraft Movie: Bring a blanket and the whole family for a free outdoor screening of A Minecraft Movie at Garfield Park. Enjoy food from Lilus Boba and Andreas Catering while the sun sets. Friday, July 11 from 5:00–7:00PM.
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🏡 Friday Nights at The Gamble House: Stroll through Pasadena’s iconic Craftsman home after hours with live music, drinks, and architecture under the stars. Fridays in July from 5:30–7:30PM. Admission includes a self-paced house tour.
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💃 Sunset Music Series: Folklórica de México: Experience the vibrant colors and rhythms of traditional Mexican folk dance at Kidspace’s Sunset Music Series. Enjoy live performances, artmaking, and extended museum hours. Friday, July 11 from 5:30–7:00PM, with shows at both 5:30 and 7:00PM.
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🎨 Beginner Sewing 1 & Air Dry Clay: Get creative at Remainders with two hands-on classes—learn to thread, stitch, and sew in Beginner Sewing 1, or sculpt your own custom figures with artist Jayme Thaler in the Air Dry Clay workshop. Friday, July 11 at 6:00PM. Includes all materials.
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🌺 Movies in the Park: Moana 2: Join Pasadena’s Parks After Dark for an outdoor screening of Moana 2 under the stars at Villa Parke’s Multipurpose Field. Friday, July 11 at 7:00PM. Free and open to all ages—just bring a blanket and enjoy the show!
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🧘 Caltech Tai Chi Club: Slow down and find your flow with free tai chi classes at Caltech, open to all experience levels. Practice Hao-style tai chi, Yang-style forms, and more in a welcoming, no-pressure environment. Friday, July 11 at 7:00PM. Beginners welcome—no membership required.
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🇫🇷 Celebrate Bastille Day with Us – Une Nuit à l’Opéra!: Enjoy a magical evening of French opera and classical music with the Pacific Opera Project at the Alliance Française de Pasadena, featuring soprano Brooke Iva Lohman, mezzo-soprano Christine Li, and pianist Yumi Hashimoto. Friday, July 11 at 7:00PM. Snacks and beverages will be served.
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🎻 Summer of Angels Chamber Music Festival Concert #2: Set within the stunning grounds of The Huntington, this evening of chamber music features the New Hollywood String Quartet and guest pianist Olga Zado performing works by Dohnányi, Dvořák, and Mendelssohn. Friday, July 11 at 7:30PM in Rothenberg Hall.
Saturday
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🍑 Pasadena Farmers’ Market at Victory Park: Stock up on fresh, locally grown produce, artisanal goods, and farm-fresh finds while chatting with the farmers themselves. Saturday, July 12 from 8:30AM–12:30PM at Victory Park (2900 block of N. Sierra Madre Blvd).
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🦋 Wildlife Observation & Nature Journaling at Arlington Garden: Slow down and soak up the morning beauty of Arlington Garden while observing local wildlife and practicing nature journaling with guidance from Pasadena Humane’s certified naturalists. Saturday, July 12 from 8:00–10:00AM. Free and open to all experience levels—journaling supplies and binoculars provided (or bring your own!).
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💪 The Courtyard Series | Fitness Sessions Supported by Vuori: Jumpstart your weekend with a free outdoor fitness session at One Colorado, blending movement, wellness, and community energy in the heart of Pasadena. Saturday, July 12 from 9:00–10:00AM in Douglas Alley. Bring a mat, water, and sneakers—RSVP required, space is limited!
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🧪 Quantum for Kids @ Caltech: Dive into the strange and exciting world of quantum science with hands-on demos, crafts, coding workshops, and a campus-wide scavenger hunt on Saturday, July 12 from 10AM–2PM at Caltech. Aimed at middle schoolers but open to all ages—free with registration!
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🧶 SoCal Etsy Guild Market Pasadena: Head to The Paseo for a lively afternoon of handmade goods, live art, and creative vendors at this pet-friendly outdoor market in the heart of Old Town. Saturday, July 12 from 12:00–7:00PM. Free to attend—come support local makers and artists!
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🥁 Drum Corps at the Rose Bowl: Experience the thunderous energy of world-class drum corps as top teams perform precision marching and music under the lights. Saturday, July 12 at the Rose Bowl. Doors open at 3:30PM. A must-see for fans of pageantry and performance!
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🎻 Summer of Angels Chamber Music Festival Concert #3: Set in the lush surroundings of The Huntington, this concert features Ravel’s shimmering Introduction and Allegro, Brahms’ stirring Viola Quintet No. 2, and Shostakovich’s haunting Piano Trio No. 2, performed by an all-star ensemble. Saturday, July 12 at 5:00PM in Rothenberg Hall.
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🔭 Talks & Telescopes with Dr. Rosaly M.C. Lopes: Journey across the fiery and icy volcanoes of our Solar System with NASA JPL’s Dr. Rosaly Lopes in this fascinating talk atop Mt. Wilson, followed by picnicking and stargazing through historic telescopes. Saturday, July 12 at 5:30PM.
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🌼 Mariposa Night: Celebrate the heart of Altadena with an evening of storytelling, music, food, and community on Saturday, July 12 from 7PM–9PM at Beckman Auditorium. Come early for a 5:30PM resource fair with food trucks, live music, and local nonprofits on the lawn. Free and open to all—RSVP requested!
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🎶 Moonlight Melodies: An Evening with The Crooners: Spend a magical night with the Pasadena POPS at the Los Angeles County Arboretum on Saturday, July 12 at 7:30PM. Enjoy timeless tunes from Broadway to Bond under the stars. Gates open at 5:30PM for picnicking at 301 N Baldwin Ave, Arcadia.
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🎥 Movies Under the Stars | Grease: Sing along with Danny and Sandy during this free outdoor screening of Grease in One Colorado’s charming courtyard. Saturday, July 12 from 8:30–11:00PM. Free admission—bring your blankets or snag VIP perks with a same-day purchase from One Colorado shops.
Sunday
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🛍️ Rose Bowl Flea Market: Hunt for treasures at the world-famous Rose Bowl Flea Market, featuring over 2,500 vendors with vintage goods, antiques, and trendy finds. Sunday, July 13 starting at 5:00AM. Tickets must be purchased online—no onsite sales.
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🚲 Beginner’s Bagel Ride: Learn the ins and outs of biking in the city during this relaxed 6-mile group ride through Pasadena—designed for beginners and featuring a free bagel stop along the way. Sunday, July 13 from 9:00AM–12:00PM. Free to join; come for the bagels, leave with confidence!
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🖼️ Arts @ The Observatory: James Griffith | Small Paintings of Infinity: Experience an afternoon of cosmic reflection at the opening reception for James Griffith’s celestial-inspired exhibition inside the historic 100-inch telescope dome at Mt. Wilson Observatory. Sunday, July 13 from 2:00–5:00PM. Free and open to the public.
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🧵 Kids Machine Sewing 1: Perfect for beginners, this hands-on class teaches kids the basics of machine sewing while guiding them through fun, simple projects in a supportive small-group setting. Sunday, July 13 at 3:00PM. $30 includes all materials—parents welcome to stay and assist.
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🎪 Circus of Worldly Wonders, A Steampunk Ballet: Step into a fantastical world of gears, magic, and movement as the Leigh Purtill Ballet Company presents a steampunk tale of transformation and wonder. Sunday, July 13 at 4:00PM.
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🎭 A Chorus Lineage: Lineage’s Dance for Joy program reimagines A Chorus Line with personal stories from dancers of all ages, blending musical theater with real-life inspiration. Sunday, July 13 at 4:00PM.
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🎭 Shakespeare by the Sea: Julius Caesar: Experience betrayal, ambition, and power under the stars as Shakespeare by the Sea brings Julius Caesar to life in this gripping outdoor performance. Sunday, July 13 at 7:00PM. Free and open to all—bring a blanket and enjoy classic theater by moonlight.
Save the Date
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🌉 Pasadena Heritage Bridge Party: An unforgettable community celebration atop the Colorado Street Bridge! Saturday, July 19th from 6–11PM. Enjoy live music, local eats, kids’ activities, and vintage vehicles—all while supporting historic preservation.
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🎨 Pasadena Bead & Design Show: Discover handcraft at its finest with over 300 artisans showcasing jewelry, textiles, beads, gemstones, and wearable art at the Pasadena Convention Center on Friday–Sunday, July 25–27 from 10AM–5PM. Enjoy workshops, live demos, and rare finds from makers across the country.
Nothing in this section is sponsored. These are just the things you need to know. I’ll always let you know if something is sponsored!
CIVIL NEWS
Free Pet Adoptions at Pasadena Humane Through July 20
Pasadena Humane is waiving adoption fees for all adult dogs and cats (six months and older) through July 20 as part of its “Hot Dog & Cool Cat” summer promotion. With around 150 animals currently at the shelter, the event aims to find loving homes during the busy summer season. Sponsored by the Pet Care Foundation and the Ridder Foundation, all adoptions include spay/neuter, microchip, and vaccinations. Stop by daily from 10AM–5PM to meet your new furry friend—first come, first served!
NEWS N’ ROSES WEATHER
Friday
84 🌡️ 62 |☀️| 💨 S 7 mph
🌆 Air Quality Index: 36 (Good)
Saturday
83 🌡️ 62 |☀️| 💨 SW 7 mph
Sunday
84 🌡️ 61 |☀️| 💨 SW 6 mph
Temperature readings taken from the Pasadena Doppler radar.
LIVE MUSIC LOWDOWN
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🎹 Larry Garf Performs: Enjoy a free morning performance by jazz pianist Larry Garf, whose set spans Ragtime, early jazz, classic blues, and even Beatles favorites. Friday, July 11 at 9:00AM at Jones Coffee Roasters.
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🎻 Summer of Angels Chamber Music Festival Concert #2: Set within the stunning grounds of The Huntington, this evening of chamber music features the New Hollywood String Quartet and guest pianist Olga Zado performing works by Dohnányi, Dvořák, and Mendelssohn. Friday, July 11 at 7:30PM in Rothenberg Hall.
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🎷 Jenny & The Jazz Birds: Enjoy smooth Saturday vibes with this beloved South Pasadena jazz group performing live at Jones Coffee Roasters. Saturday, July 12 at 10:00AM. Free to attend—grab a coffee and settle in for blues, funk, and classic jazz.
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🎻 Summer of Angels Chamber Music Festival Concert #3: Set in the lush surroundings of The Huntington, this concert features Ravel’s shimmering Introduction and Allegro, Brahms’ stirring Viola Quintet No. 2, and Shostakovich’s haunting Piano Trio No. 2, performed by an all-star ensemble. Saturday, July 12 at 5:00PM in Rothenberg Hall.
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🎶 Summer Concert Series Co-Sponsored by The Pasadena Conservatory of Music: Head to Vroman’s Paseo for a free outdoor evening of live music, co-hosted with the Pasadena Conservatory of Music. Saturday, July 12 from 5:00–6:00PM. Bring a friend, grab a drink, and enjoy the sounds of summer!
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🎸 Free Summer Concerts: The Walking Phoenixes: Enjoy a summer evening of Johnny Cash classics performed by The Walking Phoenixes at Loma Alta Park as part of Altadena’s 28th annual concert series. Saturday, July 12 at 7:00PM. Free to attend—bring a blanket, grab a drink, and soak in the music under the stars.
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🌙 Moonlight Melodies: An Evening with the Crooners: Sway under the stars to timeless tunes from Sinatra, Dean Martin, Nat King Cole, and more, with Michael Feinstein conducting and featured soloists Maude Maggart and Nick Ziobro. Saturday, July 12 at 7:30PM.
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🎶 2nd Saturday Jazz Night with Jason Luckett: Sip wine, snack, and soak in an intimate evening of jazz with Jason Luckett & Friends at Archetype Yoga—a community-driven showcase of eclectic musical talent. Saturday, July 12 at 8:00PM. Doors open at 7:30PM; donations encouraged to support the artists.
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🎼 The Gold Line Jazz Collective: Start your Sunday with the smooth sounds of cool jazz, hard bop, and Latin fusion from Hank Mehren and his rotating ensemble of top local musicians at Jones Coffee Roasters. Sunday, July 13 at 10:00AM. Free and always a vibe.
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🎺 Jazz Sundays with Catlin & Rosser: Enjoy an afternoon of eclectic and expressive jazz with Barb Catlin and Ken Rosser, whose decades of collaboration and deep musical roots shine through every set. Sunday, July 13 at 2:00PM at Jones Coffee Roasters. Free and full of unexpected musical magic.
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🎻 Summer of Angels Chamber Music Festival Concert #4: The grand finale of this breathtaking series at The Huntington features Beethoven’s Razumovsky quartet, Korngold’s cinematic Suite for Left Hand Piano, and Mendelssohn’s radiant String Octet. Sunday, July 13 at 5:00PM. A sweeping close to a magical season of music and legacy.
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🎸 2025 Summer Concerts in the Park: Big Foot – 70s Rock Classics: Rock out to hits from the golden age of classic rock as Big Foot takes the stage at Sierra Madre’s Memorial Park Bandshell. Sunday, July 13 from 6:00–8:00PM. Free and family-friendly—bring a blanket and enjoy the evening on the green.
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🎷 Music in the Park: The Jack Lantz Band (Big Band Swing): Swing into summer with the smooth sounds of The Jack Lantz Band at La Cañada’s Memorial Park. Sunday, July 13 from 6:00–8:00PM. Free to attend—bring a picnic, blankets, and your best dance moves.
PARKS AFTER DARK
For all ages to enjoy and participate in, unless otherwise specified. Registration is not required unless noted in the activity description.
This weekend’s Parks After Dark Lineup:
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🌺 Movies in the Park: Moana 2: Join Pasadena’s Parks After Dark for an outdoor screening of Moana 2 under the stars at Villa Parke’s Multipurpose Field. Friday, July 11 at 7:00PM. Free and open to all ages—just bring a blanket and enjoy the show!
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🏀 High School Basketball League: The 14th Annual Parks After Dark league tips off at Robinson Park Gym—bring your team and compete in weekly 20-minute games, open to all skill levels. Saturday, July 12 from 5:30–10:00PM. Free to participate and fun for the whole community.
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💦 Aqua Boogie Nights: Dive into summer fun at Kennedy Pool with music, dancing, and night swimming at this splashy Parks After Dark event. Saturday, July 12 from 6:00–9:00PM. Free and family-friendly—just bring your swimsuit and get ready to groove!
Activities are subject to change without notice. For more information, visit CityOfPasadena.net/Parks-And-Rec or call (626) 744-6530.
THANKS!
Thanks for reading News N’ Roses today. If you found something useful, share it with someone who sings musicals at karaoke. 🎤
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