Life in the Past Lane: Pasadena’s Free Museum Day Announced

Good morning, Pasadena. This is News N’ Roses, the newsletter that’s free and brings joy. Unlike taxes.

In today’s News N’ Roses:

• Step Into “Life in the Past Lane” at Museums of the Arroyo Day

• Events this Wednesday & Thursday

• More ‘Save the Dates’

Let’s get to it.

— Matthew Ramirez

THE DIGEST

Step Into “Life in the Past Lane” at Museums of the Arroyo Day

Museums of the Arroyo Day is rolling into its 35th year, inviting locals to explore six historic museums across Pasadena, South Pasadena, and LA — all for free! The event takes place Sunday, May 4, from noon to 4 p.m., and is a perfect opportunity to dive into the rich cultural heritage of the Arroyo Seco region.

Celebrating a diverse mix of art, architecture, and history, MOTA Day features six unique history-based museums that preserve and perpetuate early Los Angeles life. Participating locations include the Gamble House, Heritage Square, Los Angeles Police Museum, Lummis Home and Garden, Pasadena Museum of History, and South Pasadena Historical Museum.

Free shuttles will connect all six, making it easy to hop between locations. This year’s theme, “Life in the Past Lane,” highlights iconic architecture, hidden histories, and family-friendly fun at every stop.

With limited time and so much to see, organizers recommend visiting no more than three museums to get the best experience. For shuttle info, parking tips, and full event details, head to museumsofthearroyo.com. It’s one of Pasadena’s most beloved spring traditions — don’t miss it!

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WHAT'S HAPPENING

Wednesday

• 🥕 Altadena Farmers' Market: Shop seasonal produce, handmade goods, and prepared foods from local farmers, bakers, and makers. 3:30PM–6PM at Loma Alta Park.

• 😂 Pasadena Comedy Show – Always Free: Get your midweek laughs at The Mixx with host Paddy and a rotating lineup of guest comedians. Free entry, 2-for-1 drinks, and big belly laughs every Wednesday. 443 E Colorado Blvd · 8PM.

• 🧠 Game Night Live Trivia at Stone Brewing: From word jumbles to picture rounds, this isn’t your average trivia night. Join the fun, win prizes, and sip craft brews while playing game show-style trivia. 6PM–8PM.

Thursday

• 🌽 South Pasadena Farmers' Market: Shop fresh California-grown produce, grab dinner, and enjoy live music under the trees every Thursday. Located right by the Gold Line station. 4PM–7PM.

• 🎷 GCC Jazz Night at The Mixx: Enjoy a night of live jazz with performances by Glendale Community College’s Music Department. Free admission, plus drink and dinner specials. 7PM.

Save the Date

• 🖼️ Remember Eaton Canyon: Stop by Callisto Tea House for the opening reception of Remember Eaton Canyon, a solo show featuring Risograph prints by FyerLyon. Saturday, April 19 · 6PM–8PM. Exhibit on display through May 31. 1359 N Altadena Dr, Pasadena.

• 🐝 Bee Kind To Our Planet: Celebrate Earth Day at One Colorado! Enjoy eco-friendly activities, a pollinator plant workshop, honey tastings, candle-making, and more, April 26

• 🎨 Jackalope Pasadena Artisan Fair, Spring 2025: Discover over 200 local artisans at the Jackalope Indie Artisan Fair on April 26 and 27, 2025, from 10 AM to 5 PM at Central Park in Old Pasadena. This free outdoor event features handmade goods, including fashion, jewelry, home décor, art, and more. Enjoy live music, food vendors, and family-friendly activities. Leashed pets are welcome.

• 🛍️ Artazan Handcraft Market: Celebrate creativity and craftsmanship at the Artazan Market, returning to the Pasadena Convention Center May 3–4. Shop fine art, jewelry, textiles, and artisan foods while enjoying live music, chocolate tastings, and hands-on workshops. A spring weekend of inspiration and artistry awaits! Saturday 10AM–6PM | Sunday 10AM–5PM.
  

  

• 🏛️ Museums of the Arroyo Day: Step into “Life in the Past Lane” on Sunday, May 4 · 12PM–4PM as six local museums—Gamble House, Lummis Home, Pasadena Museum of History, and more—offer free admission, family activities, and shuttle service between stops. It’s the 35th annual celebration of Arroyo culture, architecture, and history.

• 🦸 Pasadena Comic Con: A vendor hall full of comic books, toys, action figures, anime and so much more, May 24

• ⛸️ Juneteenth Celebration: The NAACP Pasadena Branch will hold its Juneteenth Celebration and 4th Annual Roller Jam at Pasadena City Hall, June 14 at 4 PM.

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

Big Plans, Big Bucks: Pasadena’s $2.4B Infrastructure Overhaul Begins

Pasadena’s gearing up for a serious glow-up. The City Council just opened discussions on a $2.4 billion Capital Improvement Plan that maps out five years of upgrades — from parks and storm drains to smoother streets and better city buildings.

The 2026 budget alone proposes $446 million for 119 projects, but there’s still over $1.1 billion left to lock down. Think of it as a wish list with a head start.

More details are coming at a joint Council and Finance Committee meeting on April 28. The public hearing stays open through May as they shape what’s next.

It’s official: Pasadena’s future is under construction (and it’s looking pretty impressive).

PUSD’s State of the Schools Is Tonight

PUSD Board President Jennifer Hall Lee will deliver the annual State of the Schools address tonight at 5:30 p.m. at Pasadena High School (also livestreaming at pusd.us/stateofschools).

With budget cuts, staff layoffs, and Eaton Fire recovery on deck, expect an honest look at the challenges ahead — plus updates on student performance and district goals. Stay tuned.

NEWS N’ ROSES WEATHER

Wednesday

62 🌡️ 49 |⛅| 💨 SW 8 mph

🌆 Air Quality Index: 32 (Moderate)

Thursday

60 🌡️ 51 |🌧️| 💨 SW 7 mph

Temperature readings taken from the Pasadena Doppler radar. 

LIVE MUSIC LOWDOWN

• 🎵 Music in the Chinese Garden: Stroll the Garden of Flowing Fragrance while enjoying live traditional Chinese melodies performed on classical instruments like the dizi, pipa, and erhu. Wednesday, April 16 · 1PM–3PM.
  

• 🎷 GCC Jazz Night at The Mixx: Enjoy a night of live jazz with performances by Glendale Community College’s Music Department. Free admission, plus drink and dinner specials. Thursday, April 17 · 7PM.
  

• 🎹 Valentina Shelton – “Straight, No Chaser” Thursdays: Let Valentina Shelton set the mood with classic straight-ahead jazz from the golden era of the '50s and '60s. Smooth vocals, piano vibes, and perfectly crafted cocktails. Thursday, April 17 · 8PM–11PM.
  

• 🎤 Amy Winehouse Tribute & Other Jazz Legends Dinner Show: Experience a soulful evening honoring Amy Winehouse and other jazz greats, featuring live performances by Liela Avila and Friends. Enjoy dinner and drinks at Hawg Heaven BBQ & Gastro Pub. Friday, April 18 · 7PM.
  

• 🎤 Nic Jackson Duo – “Grand Piano” Fridays: Wind down the week with the Nic Jackson Duo performing soulful pop and lounge-style tunes with vintage flair. It’s the perfect backdrop for a classy night out. Friday, April 18 · 8PM–11PM.
  

• 🎸 AC/DC – Power Up Tour: Rock legends AC/DC return to the U.S. for the first time in nine years, bringing their Power Up Tour to the Rose Bowl Stadium on Friday, April 18 at 7PM. Expect an electrifying night of classic hits and high-voltage energy. Special guests The Pretty Reckless will open the show. Tickets are available now.​

  

THANKS!

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