Support Local This Holiday Season

Good morning, Pasadena. This is News N’ Roses. I get it. It’s not even Thanksgiving yet and we’re already talking holidays. But even though Mariah Carey has defrosted and her song is already playing in every store you walk in, just remember to be thankful we live in Pasadena—truly a wonderful city. And that’s why we have to support our local businesses.

In Today’s News N’ Roses:

• Holiday Shopping Campaign Kicks Off in Pasadena

• Doo Dah Takeover Coming Up

• Events this Wednesday & Tuesday

• Updated Save-the-Date List

• Civil New: PUSD Set to Vote on $25 Million in Cuts This Week

• Live Music Lowdown

Let’s get to it.

—Matthew Ramirez

🍂THE DIGEST

Holiday Shopping Campaign Kicks Off in Pasadena

Pasadena is rolling out a citywide push to support small businesses this holiday season, starting with Small Business Saturday on Nov. 29 and continuing through December. More than 1,600 local shops and 700 restaurants are part of the effort, and a handful of them will host welcome stations handing out limited-edition “Shop Small Pasadena” canvas totes while supplies last.

To sweeten things a bit, the city is promoting the Open Rewards app, which gives shoppers cash-back rewards at participating businesses. And if you want to skip parking headaches, Pasadena Transit is offering free rides on Nov. 28 and 29.

The City of Pasadena says the goal is simple: keep holiday spending in town and highlight the independent shops and eateries that make Pasadena stand out. More than 30 small businesses will participate, including Vroman’s Bookstore, Republic of Lucha, Atelier by Artmingo, MeowMeowz!, Union Street Toys, and Poo-Bah Record Shop. A full list is available at Bit.ly/ShopLocalPasadena.

Doo Dah Takeover Coming Up

In case you forgot, the Doo Dah parade may be off this year, but the Doo Dah spirit is definitely not. Instead of sitting it out, the community is turning the would-be parade day into something even better — a full takeover of Old Pasadena on Sunday, Nov. 23. It’s a reminder that this tradition runs on people, creativity, and pure momentum, and none of that is slowing down.

Things start at Dog Haus Biergarten on Big Bang Theory Way from 11 AM to 3 PM. Expect live sets from MA the Band and The Rock and Roll Preservation Society, plus the usual cast of Doo Dah characters doing whatever it is they do best. The annual Queen Tryouts and crowning happen from noon to 3 PM, and anyone can throw their hat in the ring — people, pets, and anything in between.

After that, the party moves over to The Old Towne Pub for an after party from 3 PM to 6 PM, with Ashton Slater’s Grateful Get-Down bringing the psychedelic edge. For more info, click here.

If you’re feeling bold, the Queen Tryouts are open to anyone ready to perform, entertain, or just fully embrace the chaos. Past contenders have included lizards, birds, dogs, and a good mix of humans. Bring a costume, bring a talent, or just bring the energy. The judges are all former Doo Dah royals, and they’re looking for someone who can carry the torch in this no-parade year.

It’s Doo Dah, so the only real rule is to show up and have fun!

@NEWSN_ROSES

📷@seereenuh📍Astronomy On Tap, Dog Haus Beirgarten
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WHAT'S HAPPENING🥧

Wednesday (11/19/25)

🧺 Dinner in the Park 2025: Union Station Homeless Services is giving out Thanksgiving meal boxes — complete with all the ingredients needed for a warm holiday dinner at home. Swing by the Adult Center to pick one up while supplies last, with volunteers on-site to help. Wednesday, November 19 from 9AM–3PM.

🧶 Make a Holiday Gift Using Your Knitting and Crocheting Skills: Learn the basics of knitting and crocheting and start creating handmade holiday gifts — think colorful scarves and cozy pieces made with your own yarn and tools. Wednesday, November 19 at 11AM.

🐶 Barks & Books: Kids can curl up with a friendly therapy dog and practice reading in a calm, confidence-boosting environment — a sweet way to build skills without the pressure of reading to adults or peers. Wednesday, November 19 at 4PM.

🍁 Adult Crafternoon: Fall Wreath: Get crafty at Loma Alta Park with a relaxed, hands-on session where adults can make their own autumn wreath — a fun, creative way to welcome the season. Wednesday, November 19 from 4PM–5:30PM.

🌲 Enchanted Forest of Light: Descanso Gardens lights up the night with immersive, glowing installations — from stained-glass cottages and shimmering sculptures to illuminated forest pathways and holiday treats along the way. Wednesday, November 19 from 5:30PM–10PM.

🐾 Hidden Gems: Pop-Up Dog Adoption Event: Meet Pasadena Humane’s “Hidden Gems” — wonderful dogs who’ve been waiting a little longer for their forever homes. Stop by PetSmart Hastings Ranch for a sweet midweek adoption pop-up and give a deserving pup some extra love and attention. Wednesday, November 19 at 5PM.

🧠 Game Night Live Trivia at Stone Brewing Tap Room: Not a trivia expert? Doesn’t matter — this free, fast-paced game night mixes word jumbles, picture rounds, and game-show-style challenges for a fun, prize-filled evening at Stone Brewing. Wednesday, November 19 from 6PM–8PM.

📚 Jerry D. Moore Discusses & Signs Cat Tales: A History: Dive into the wild, surprising, and sometimes ancient relationship between humans and cats as anthropologist Jerry D. Moore shares stories from his new book, tracing felines from prehistoric predators to beloved companions. A perfect event for history buffs and cat people. Wednesday, November 19 at 7PM.

🚀 Caltech Watson Lecture – Ashwin Vasavada: Go behind the scenes of NASA’s Curiosity rover mission with JPL’s Ashwin Vasavada as he shares how the rover uncovered evidence that Mars was once habitable. Enjoy an evening of science, stories, and stargazing vibes at Caltech’s Beckman Auditorium. Wednesday, November 19 at 7:30PM.

🎤 Distinguished Speaker Series – Sanna Marin: Hear from Sanna Marin, former Prime Minister of Finland and one of the world’s youngest leaders, as she explores what makes Finland the happiest country on Earth. An inspiring evening of global insight and conversation awaits. Wednesday, November 19 from 7:30–9PM.

Thursday (11/20/25)

🏈 College Rivalries Roundtable: Gear up for USC vs. UCLA with a lively morning of trivia, fan banter, and guest speakers — including Hall of Famer Warren Moon and Pro Football Hall of Fame President Jim Porter. A fun kickoff to rivalry weekend hosted by the Rose Bowl Quarterbacks Club. Thursday, November 20 from 8AM–9:30AM.

🛒 Supervisor Kathryn Barger Grocery Giveaways: Supervisor Kathryn Barger and the LA Regional Food Bank are teaming up to distribute free groceries across the 5th District, ensuring families have what they need for the holiday season. No eligibility requirements — just stop by while supplies last. Thursday, November 20 from 9AM–12PM.

🖼️ Curator’s Tour: Cha-Rie Tang — 48 Years of Artistic Innovation in Pasadena: Join curator Cha-Rie Tang for an intimate walkthrough of her exhibition, exploring decades of vibrant fused glass, sculptural ceramic tiles, and multidisciplinary design work that spans architecture, interiors, and public art. Thursday, November 20 at 11AM.

🪶 Native American History Month Discussion: Hear from Tribal Councilwomen Regina Murillo and Patricia Neminski as they discuss the importance of Federal Recognition for Native Nations — and how it strengthens sovereignty and self-governance for tribal communities. Thursday, November 20 from 1:30PM–2:30PM.

🍊 South Pasadena Farmers' Market: Spend your Thursday evening under the trees browsing fresh, California-grown produce, grabbing dinner from local food vendors, and enjoying the lively market atmosphere right off the South Pasadena Gold Line station. Thursday, November 20 from 4PM–7PM.

👥 “Meet Me at the Village!” (In Person Edition): Enjoy a warm, casual meetup with Pasadena Village over coffee and bagels — a chance to learn what the Village is all about, meet members, and bring along a friend for good conversation. Thursday, November 20 at 4PM.

🌲 Enchanted Forest of Light: Descanso Gardens glows after dark with interactive light installations, stained-glass cottages, shimmering sculptures, and illuminated forest pathways — a dreamy way to kick off the holiday season. Thursday, November 20 from 5:30PM–10PM.

🎭 Vital Sounds Fundraiser: Mozart Masquerade: Step back into 18th-century elegance for a magical evening of Mozart on fortepiano, masked revelry, and intimate performances led by Salastina’s resident artists — all in support of their concerts and community music programs. Thursday, November 20 at 6PM.

🎭 Broadway Gamble Ramble: Wander through the historic Gamble House as performers bring Broadway’s evolution to life with music, dance, and storytelling in every room — an immersive, intimate journey through theater history. Thursday, November 20 at 7PM.

🎭 Tom Segura: Come Together: Comedian Tom Segura brings his sharp wit and fearless humor to the Pasadena Civic Auditorium for one unforgettable night of laughs. A portion of proceeds supports World Central Kitchen’s humanitarian work. Thursday, November 20 at 7:30PM.

Save the Date

🎨 Jackalope Art Festival: Explore one of Pasadena’s favorite outdoor markets with 200+ indie artisans showcasing handmade art, jewelry, home goods, and more. Enjoy live music, great food, and family-friendly vibes at this free weekend event. Saturday–Sunday, November 22–23 from 10AM–4PM.

🩰 NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet: Step into the magic of the holidays with this breathtaking ballet featuring an international cast, lavish sets, and hand-crafted costumes from Europe—all set to Tchaikovsky’s timeless score. A dazzling tradition for the whole family. Saturday, November 22 at 3PM and 7PM.

🎉 Doo Dah Takeover: Even without the parade, the Doo Dah spirit marches on! Kick off the chaos at Dog Haus Biergarten for Doo Dah’s Big Bang! — a lively alley cabaret packed with music, antics, and the iconic Doo Dah Queen tryouts. Then roll right into the 21+ after party at The Old Towne Pub for a psychedelic Grateful Get-Down to keep the revelry going. Sunday, November 23: 11AM–3PM (Dog Haus) & 3PM–6PM (Old Towne Pub).

🎸 The Mars Volta: The Mars Volta hits the Pasadena Civic Auditorium for a high-energy night from the genre-bending duo behind At The Drive-In, blending experimental rock, wild rhythms, and their unmistakable sound. Doors at 7, show at 8. Wednesday, November 26 at 8PM.

🦃 Rose Bowl Turkey Trot: Kick off Thanksgiving morning with a fun, family-friendly 5K loop around the iconic Rose Bowl — whether you run, walk, skip, or jog, it’s a Pasadena tradition that starts the holiday on a high note. Thursday, November 27 from 8:30AM–10:30AM.

🎁 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.

🎄 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).

🛍️ 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.

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

Reconnecting Communities Advisory Group Meeting: Learn about Pasadena’s ongoing efforts to envision the future of the former 710 freeway corridor as the Reconnecting Communities Advisory Group meets to discuss planning, community input, and next steps for restoring and revitalizing the area. Wednesday, November 19 at 6:30PM.

PUSD Set to Vote on $25 Million in Cuts This Week

Pasadena Unified is preparing for one of its toughest budget decisions in years. On Thursday, the board will vote on $25 million in cuts that would affect athletics, arts, libraries, landscaping and other school-based programs. In total, the district needs to close a $30.5 million gap for next school year.

The cuts come after years of declining enrollment, rising costs and the end of temporary COVID relief funding. The Los Angeles County Office of Education has warned that PUSD must make significant reductions to stay financially stable.

If approved, the plan would eliminate or reduce school staff positions, central office roles and several outside service contracts. Some sports may be consolidated across campuses, and not every school would offer every team. Specific job cuts would be identified later this year, with layoff notices going out in March.

Parents, educators and students voiced strong concerns at last week’s meeting, saying the cuts would hit programs that keep kids engaged and families in the district.

The board votes tomorrow, Thursday, November 20. Residents can contact their board member or speak during public comment to weigh in.

NEWS N’ ROSES WEATHER🍁

Wednesday

60 🌡️ 48 |⛅| 💨 NW 6 mph

🌆 Air Quality Index: 26 (Good)

Thursday

55 🌡️ 49 |🌧️50%| 💨 E 8 mph

Temperature readings taken from the Pasadena Doppler Radar.

🥕LIVE MUSIC LOWDOWN

🎺 Jumpin' Joz Band: Get ready for a high-energy night of swing, jump, jazz, and early R&B as the Jumpin’ Joz Band brings their vintage vibe and big, Basie-style sound to Edwin Mills — perfect for both listeners and dancers. Wednesday, November 19 from 6PM–10PM.

🎭 Vital Sounds Fundraiser: Mozart Masquerade: Step back into 18th-century elegance for a magical evening of Mozart on fortepiano, masked revelry, and intimate performances led by Salastina’s resident artists — all in support of their concerts and community music programs. Thursday, November 20 at 6PM.

🎸 Doug MacDonald: Enjoy a warm, timeless night of jazz with guitarist Doug MacDonald, a true “player’s player” known for his clean swing, classic tone, and decades of performing with legends across the country. A perfect evening for jazz lovers who appreciate mastery without the flash. Thursday, November 20 from 6PM–10PM.

THANKS!🦃

Thanks for reading News N’ Roses today. If you found something useful, share it with someone who prefers duck over turkey for Thanksgiving. 🦆

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