Black Friday & Turkey Trot

Good morning, Pasadena. This is News N’ Roses—the newsletter that knows half the city is shopping, the other half is eating leftovers, and some of you are doing both at the same time.

In Today’s News N’ Roses:

• Black Friday Crowds Meet Shop Small Pasadena Weekend

• Pasadena Turkey Trot Draws Thousands in Support of Eaton Fire Recovery

• Events this Weekend

• Save the Dates

• Civil News: Pasadena Closures (continued)

• Live Music Lowdown

Let’s get to it.

—Matthew Ramirez

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🍂THE DIGEST

Black Friday Crowds Meet Shop Small Pasadena Weekend

Pasadena is joining the Black Friday rush across L.A. County, but the city is also rolling out its Shop Small Pasadena push to spotlight local shops all weekend. There are free tote bag stations around town, free Pasadena Transit rides today and Saturday, and a bunch of indie retailers doing special promos.

You can grab the free totes at places like Vroman’s Bookstore, Sibylline Records, Republic of Lucha, MeowMeowz!, and Run With Us, along with more than 20 other shops citywide. Many are offering deals or small perks, and some—like Vroman’s and Sibylline Records—are hosting holiday events to bring people in.

On the national side, the NRF expects a record 186.9 million people to shop between Thanksgiving and Cyber Monday. Clothes, gift cards, and toys top the lists, with Legos and Hot Wheels leading for boys and Barbie and collectible plush toys trending for girls.

So if you’re out this weekend, it’s a mix of classic Black Friday deals and a big hometown nudge to explore the small shops that make Pasadena fun to wander during the holidays.

Pasadena Turkey Trot Draws Thousands in Support of Eaton Fire Recovery

Thousands of Pasadena residents kicked off Thanksgiving morning at the Rose Bowl for the 8th Annual Turkey Trot, which doubled as a fundraiser for families affected by the Eaton Fire earlier this year. The 5K looped around Brookside Golf Course under clear skies, with runners, walkers, strollers, and plenty of turkey hats filling the route.

Registration fees supported the Rose Bowl Legacy Foundation and the Pasadena Educational Foundation’s Eaton Fire Response Fund. Organizers said signups surged in the days leading up to the holiday, pushing turnout well past early expectations.

The Turkey Trot started in 2018 as a small community run and has quickly grown into a Thanksgiving staple, bringing competitive runners and casual walkers to the same start line before everyone headed home for the holiday.

@NEWSN_ROSES

📷@newsnroses📍Turkey Trot 2025, The Rose Bowl
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WHAT'S HAPPENING🥧

Friday (11/28/25)

✨ Enchant Los Angeles at Santa Anita Park: Step into a glowing holiday world filled with light mazes, ice skating, festive treats, and plenty of cozy winter magic. A perfect night to wander, sip, and feel the sparkle of the season. Friday, November 28 at 4:30–7:30PM.

🌲 Enchanted Forest of Light: Descanso Gardens turns into a glowing, after-dark wonderland with interactive installations, stained-glass cottages, shimmering pathways, and all the cozy seasonal vibes. A perfect stroll for anyone who loves a little magic at night. Friday, November 28 at 5:30–10PM.

🏈 2025 CIF SS Division 1 Football Championships: High school football takes over the Rose Bowl for a rare championship night, bringing big-game energy to one of the most iconic stadiums in the country. Expect a packed crowd, major school spirit, and a classic Friday-night kickoff. Friday, November 28 at 7PM.

Saturday (11/29/25)

🛍️ Small Business Saturday Takeover: Celebrate Pasadena’s indie shops and kick off the holiday season by supporting the local businesses that give each neighborhood its charm. Stop by a welcome kiosk for a free canvas tote (while supplies last) and spend the day discovering one-of-a-kind gifts all around town. Saturday, November 29.

🧺 Pasadena Farmers' Market at Victory Park: Start your Saturday with fresh produce, local vendors, and all the good community vibes that come with shopping straight from the farmers. A great spot to grab seasonal goodies and stroll with a coffee in hand. Saturday, November 29 at 8AM–12PM.

🍅 La Cañada Farmers' Market: A cozy Saturday market packed with fresh produce, baked goods, local favorites, and all the little treats that make weekend shopping fun. Rain or shine, it’s always a great stop for something delicious. Saturday, November 29 at 9AM–1PM.

🎁 Holiday Market: Browse work from 80+ local ceramic artists, enjoy tasty bites, and listen to live music at Green & Bisque Clayhouse’s festive annual market — with a special limited-edition tote for the first 25 shoppers each day. Saturday–Sunday, November 29–30 from 10AM–5PM.

❄️ Winter Bloom Market & Gathering: A warm, community-forward celebration in Altadena with live music, crafting, wellness activities, and more than 50 local artists and food vendors. A great spot to wander, connect, and soak up the neighborhood spirit. Saturday, November 29 at 10AM.

🩰 Holidays @ the Playhouse: Bob Baker's Nutcracker: A charming marionette twist on the classic ballet, filled with whimsical characters, colorful sets, and all the holiday magic you remember. A longtime favorite for families and anyone who loves a nostalgic December tradition. Saturday, November 29 at 10:30AM.

🏠the Queen Anne Cottage: Step into a festive 19th-century scene with Victorian entertainment, local vendors, crafts, and rare walkthrough tours of the beautifully restored Queen Anne Cottage. A charming holiday escape right in the Arboretum. Saturday, November 29 at 11AM–2PM.

🩰 Holidays @ the Playhouse: Bob Baker's Nutcracker: The beloved marionette retelling of the classic ballet returns with whimsical characters, colorful sets, and that nostalgic holiday magic Bob Baker fans love. A timeless treat for all ages. Saturday, November 29 at 1:30PM & 4:30PM.

✨ Enchant Los Angeles at Santa Anita Park: Wander through glowing trails, dazzling light mazes, festive treats, and all the cozy winter magic that makes Enchant such a holiday favorite. A perfect night out for families, friends, or a seasonal date. Saturday, November 29 at 4:30–7:30PM.

🌲 Enchanted Forest of Light: Descanso Gardens turns into a glowing, after-dark wonderland with interactive installations, stained-glass cottages, shimmering pathways, and all the cozy seasonal vibes. A perfect stroll for anyone who loves a little magic at night. Saturday, November 29 at 5:30–10PM.

🎄 A Christmas Carol: A Noise Within brings back its beloved holiday tradition with a festive, music-filled reimagining of A Christmas Carol — complete with whimsical costumes, lobby crafts, photo ops, and post-show pictures with the cast. Saturday, November 29 (select dates through December 24), 7PM.

Sunday (11/30/25)

🦊 Cemetery Wildlife Walk: Start the morning with a peaceful wildlife walk through Mountain View Cemetery, where you’ll spot local animals, learn about native plants, and hear the stories behind a few notable gravestones. Sunday, November 30 at 6:30–8AM.

🎁 Holiday Market: Browse work from 80+ local ceramic artists, enjoy tasty bites, and listen to live music at Green & Bisque Clayhouse’s festive annual market — with a special limited-edition tote for the first 25 shoppers each day. Saturday–Sunday, November 29–30 from 10AM–5PM.

🩰 Holidays @ the Playhouse: Bob Baker's Nutcracker: This whimsical marionette spin on the classic ballet brings Clara, the Nutcracker, and the Sugarplum Fairy to life with beautiful sets and Bob Baker’s signature magic. A cozy holiday favorite for all ages. Sunday, November 30 at 10:30AM.

⛄ Winter Frolic: Kidspace transforms into a playful winter wonderland filled with sock skating, hands-on activities, and plenty of cozy, imaginative fun for little ones and their families. A full day of magical, kid-approved seasonal joy. Sunday, November 30 (all day).

🎭 A Christmas Carol: A Noise Within brings back its beloved, music-filled adaptation of Dickens’ classic tale—Scrooge, spirits, redemption, and all the holiday warmth you’d expect. A perfect tradition for families. Sunday, November 30 at 11AM.

🎄 A Victorian Holiday at the Queen Anne Cottage: Step into a festive Victorian scene with music, crafts, local vendors, and rare walkthrough tours of the beautifully restored Queen Anne Cottage. A charming way to celebrate the season at the Arboretum. Sunday, November 30 at 11AM–2PM.

🩰 Holidays @ the Playhouse: Bob Baker's Nutcracker: The beloved marionette retelling of the classic ballet returns with whimsical characters, colorful sets, and that nostalgic holiday magic Bob Baker fans love. A timeless treat for all ages. Saturday, November 29 at 1:30PM & 4:30PM.

🎶 Holiday Concert at Vroman’s Bookstore | Café Luar: Enjoy a cozy afternoon of holiday classics—folk, jazz, and more—performed live by Café Luar inside Vroman’s. A sweet way to ease into the season with great music and bookstore vibes. Sunday, November 30 at 1PM.

🎄 A Christmas Carol: A Noise Within brings back its beloved holiday tradition with a festive, music-filled reimagining of A Christmas Carol — complete with whimsical costumes, lobby crafts, photo ops, and post-show pictures with the cast. Saturday, November 29 (select dates through December 24), 2PM.

✨ Enchant Los Angeles at Santa Anita Park: Wander through glowing trails, a massive light maze, festive treats, and all the cozy holiday magic Enchant is known for. A perfect way to wrap up the weekend under millions of twinkling lights. Sunday, November 30 at 4:30–7:30PM.

🌲 Enchanted Forest of Light: Descanso Gardens glows after dark with interactive light installations, stained-glass cottages, shimmering sculptures, and all the cozy nighttime magic this annual favorite is known for. Sunday, November 30 at 5:30–10PM.

Save the Date

🎄 A Victorian Holiday at the Queen Anne Cottage: Step back into the 1880s at this charming Victorian celebration, complete with Santa visits, caroling, old-fashioned dancing, and a holiday marketplace with 30+ vendors. A cozy throwback to the season’s simpler joys. November 29–December 14, 11AM-2PM.

💎 International Gem and Jewelry Show: Browse dazzling displays of gems, fine jewelry, beads, and accessories as top designers and wholesalers come together for a three-day shopping event running Friday, Dec. 5 from 12pm–6pm; Saturday, Dec. 6 from 10am–6pm; and Sunday, Dec. 7 from 11am–5pm. A fun place to explore everything from diamonds to unique handcrafted pieces.

🏡 Holiday Look-In Home Tour: Take a festive peek inside four beautifully decorated Pasadena homes, each filled with stunning florals, elegant architecture, and holiday charm. Don’t miss the free Holiday Boutique at the Pasadena Scottish Rite Center for extra seasonal shopping. Saturday & Sunday, December 6–7, 9:30AM - 5PM.

🎅 Holidayfest!: South Lake Avenue comes alive with live music, free photos with Santa, crafts, raffles, and plenty of festive energy—plus tons of in-store holiday specials. A fun, family-friendly way to kick off the season. Saturday, December 6 from 12PM–6PM.

🛍️ Pasadena City College Flea Market: Browse one of the region’s most beloved flea markets, featuring 400+ vendors offering everything from antiques and collectibles to quirky secondhand finds. A Sunday staple for treasure hunters. Sunday, December 7, 8AM-3PM.

🕯️ Holiday Candlelight: Experience Pasadena Symphony’s most cherished holiday tradition as All Saints Church glows with candlelight and fills with classic seasonal music performed by choir, handbells, and orchestra. A breathtaking way to celebrate the season. Friday, December 12 at 7PM and Saturday, December, 13 at 4PM & 7PM.

🎄 Jingle & Mingle at Pasadena Playhouse: The Playhouse transforms into a festive holiday hub with concerts, crafts, behind-the-scenes tours, and a free Holiday Open House for all ages. A cheerful way to spend an afternoon or evening. Saturday, December 13, 1PM & 5PM.

🏰 Castle Green Holiday Tour: Step into Pasadena’s golden era as Castle Green opens its doors for a festive self-guided holiday tour, complete with live piano music, lawn games, a photo booth, and plenty of seasonal charm. Arrive anytime between 11 and 3. Sunday, December 14 from 11AM–3PM.

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

Thanksgiving Closures in Pasadena (continues through weekend)

City Hall and most Pasadena services will be closed this Thursday and Friday for the Thanksgiving holiday. Police and Fire will operate as normal, but non-emergency lines and the police records office will be closed until Monday.

Trash pickup for Thursday will move to Friday, and Friday’s collection will happen on Saturday. Parking meters will be free on Thanksgiving Day, but all enforcement returns Friday.

Pasadena Transit Route 33 will run a Sunday schedule on Thursday. All other routes and Dial-A-Ride will not run that day.

Libraries will close at 5 PM on Wednesday and stay closed through Friday, with select branches reopening Saturday. Recreation and community centers will also be closed Thursday and Friday, though parks remain open.

The city and Visit Pasadena are also launching a “Shop Small Pasadena” campaign starting this Saturday, encouraging residents to support local retailers and restaurants. Select shops will be giving out free tote bags while supplies last.

NEWS N’ ROSES WEATHER🍁

Friday

71 🌡️ 54 |☀️| 💨 NE 2 mph

🌆 Air Quality Index: 31 (Good)

Saturday

70 🌡️ 52 |☀️| 💨 NW 2 mph

Sunday

66 🌡️ 51 |☀️| 💨 E 3 mph

Temperature readings taken from the Pasadena Doppler Radar.

🥕LIVE MUSIC LOWDOWN

🎷 Grace Fae and The Grandbirds at Edwin Mills: Settle in for a night of vintage jazz, swinging tunes from the 1920s–40s, and the warm, Peggy Lee–style vocals of Grace Fae. A perfect soundtrack for a cozy fall evening. Friday, November 28 at 7–11PM.

🎸 Daryl Darden at Edwin Mills: Settle in for an evening of smooth jazz and blues with guitarist Daryl Darden, whose decades of performing around the world bring serious soul and style to every set. A great night for live-music lovers. Saturday, November 29 at 7–11PM.

🎶 Ken Song at Edwin Mills: Unwind with an evening of smooth jazz from guitarist Ken Song, bringing warm, laid-back vibes to close out the weekend. Sunday, November 30 at 6–10PM.

🎶 Holiday Concert at Vroman’s Bookstore | Café Luar: Enjoy a cozy afternoon of holiday classics—folk, jazz, and more—performed live by Café Luar inside Vroman’s. A sweet way to ease into the season with great music and bookstore vibes. Sunday, November 30 at 1PM.

THANKS!🦃

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