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Pasadena, California

Welcome to Pasadena, a city where rich history meets vibrant innovation under the Southern California sun. We're proud to be home to the world-famous Tournament of Roses Parade and Rose Bowl Game, a tradition that brings joy to millions each New Year's Day. From the historic architecture of Old Pasadena to the scientific brilliance of Caltech and JPL, our city truly offers a unique blend of heritage and future-forward thinking that makes residents beam with pride.

Founded 1886 | Population 139,731 | Peak 139,731 (2024) | County Los Angeles County

Top Events in Pasadena, California

1886 City Incorporated: Pasadena officially became an incorporated city, marking its formal establishment.

1890 First Rose Parade: The inaugural Tournament of Roses Parade delighted crowds, starting a beloved annual tradition.

1927 City Hall Completed: Pasadena's iconic City Hall, a stunning example of Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, was dedicated.

1944 JPL Begins Space Work: The Jet Propulsion Laboratory, under Caltech, began its pioneering work in rocket science and space exploration.

2003 Gold Line Opens: The Metro Gold Line (now L Line) connected Pasadena to downtown Los Angeles, enhancing transit.

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Latest News in Pasadena

Mar 6, 2026

Suspect Detained After Broad-Daylight Attack in SF

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LADWP Chief Resigns After Year of Scrutiny Over Negligence

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Los Angeles Police Shift to Manual Dispatch Amid Tech Failure

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Historical Timeline of Pasadena

1886 Government

City Incorporated

1890 Culture

First Tournament of Roses Parade

1927 Culture

Pasadena City Hall Completed

1944 Science

JPL's Space Exploration Begins

1950 Economy

Post-War Growth Spurt

1970 Culture

Old Pasadena Redevelopment Starts

2003 Transport

Metro Gold Line Extension

2018 Heritage

Arroyo Seco Parkway Preservation

Did You Know? — Pasadena

Pasadena was originally founded as the 'Indiana Colony' in 1874 by a group of individuals seeking a warmer climate.

The city is home to the California Institute of Technology (Caltech), a private research university consistently ranked among the world's best.

The iconic Rose Bowl Stadium, a National Historic Landmark, has hosted not only the Rose Bowl Game but also Super Bowls, World Cup finals, and Olympic events.

Pasadena boasts an exceptional collection of Craftsman-style homes, including the renowned Gamble House, designed by architects Greene & Greene.

The Arroyo Seco Parkway, connecting Pasadena to Downtown Los Angeles, was the first freeway in the Western United States, completed in 1940.

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