What You Don’t Want to Miss This Summer in Pasadena

By Alex Cordero

There are so many things to do in the City of Pasadena you may often find yourself wishing you could be in two places at once (or a few places for that matter). It is normal for the city to pull you in various directions. However, during summer it’s a whole different Pasadena experience.

If you are struggling with deciding on how to plan your calendar next month, please make sure to mark July 14 for the Biennial Colorado Street Bridge Party in the City of Pasadena. The event is hosted by Pasadena Heritage, an organization that focuses on preserving the history of Pasadena. This has become a Pasadena summer tradition you don’t want to miss.

Did you know that the Colorado Street Bridge is on the National Register of Historic Places? The bridge was built and designed by a firm called Waddell & Harrington in 1913. This historic bridge spans 1,486 feet at a maximum height of 150 feet. This majestic overpass connects Pasadena with Eagle Rock and Glendale to the west and with Monrovia to the east. The Colorado Street Bridge is distinguished by its Beaux Arts design. This architectural style taught in Paris had a great influence on American architects. With its arches, light standings, and railings this architectural masterpiece was designated a National Historic Civil Engineering Landmark by the American Society of Civil Engineers. Is it any wonder why the Pasadena Heritage presents a summer party on this iconic bridge?

Since 1977, the Pasadena Heritage, a nonprofit organization, has been identifying, protecting, and preserving historic and architectural resources in Pasadena through advocacy and education. In fact, it is their mission to preserve and protect the history that defines the city’s character. Pasadena Heritage makes it easy for you to become part of their organization. You can join Pasadena Heritage by becoming a member, volunteering, donating or participating in current and upcoming events. They are the second largest preservation organization in the state of California. They hold several easements in Pasadena. Places preserved and protected by the organization include the Pasadena Playhouse on South El Molino Ave., Castle Green on South Raymond Ave., and what is their biggest? Yes, you guessed it, the Colorado Street Bridge. They also host several different events such as private bus tours, walking tours, and community presentations throughout the year. However, once every other year the Colorado Street Bridge Party has become a signature event hosted by Pasadena Heritage. What started off as a feature event to save the famous bridge has now become an anticipated community event. So grab your dancing shoes and experience Pasadena by being part of this summer tradition that only comes every other year on this illustrious bridge. Otherwise you have to wait a whole other year, and who knows what could happen by then.

The Biennial Colorado Street Bridge Party will be held on Saturday, July 14 from 6 to 11:30 p.m. Guests will be treated to live music, dancing, and fun-filled children’s activities. There will also be food and drinks available for purchase from local vendors. Tickets are on sale now and you may purchase them at an early discount price of $18 for members or $20 for non-members through July 13. Ticket prices at the door will be $25.To purchase your tickets and support the Pasadena Heritage organization please visit pasadenaheritage.org  and if you would like more information on how to join Pasadena Heritage you may visit them at pasadenaheritage.org.

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Pasadena Heritage will host the Biennial Colorado Street Bridge Party in July. – Photo by Alex Cordero / Beacon Media News

The Biennial Colorado Street Bridge Party will include live music and children’s activities. – Photo by Alex Cordero / Beacon Media News

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