The City of South Pasadena will once again come alive with red, white, and blue spirit during the 2025 Festival of Balloons Parade on Friday, July 4, under this year’s unifying theme: “Unity in Community: One Nation, One Neighborhood.” The celebration showcases the pride, diversity, and small-town camaraderie that defines the city’s longstanding Independence Day tradition.
The parade will step off at 11:00 a.m. from Diamond Avenue, travel along Mission Street, and conclude at Garfield Park, where additional festivities will continue into the afternoon.
2025 Parade Line-Up Highlights Beloved Community Organizations
This year’s lineup features a wide variety of local organizations, schools, public officials, and spirited groups, including:
- South Pasadena High School Minuteman Band
- South Pasadena Fire Department and Police Department
- Tournament of Roses Committee
- City Councilmembers, Mayor Janet Braun, and Congresswoman Judy Chu
- Youth groups like Cub Scouts, Girl Scouts, and AYSO Region 214
- Local clubs such as the South Pasadena Juggling Club, Masonic Lodge, and Rotary Club
- Popular groups including Rise Up and Dance, Tai Ji Men Qigong Academy, and the Model T Ford Club of America
The parade will also honor poster contest winners and feature community favorites like Uncle Sam (portrayed by Mike Sandford), the South Pasadena Public Library, and the South Pasadena Unified School District.
Full Day of Festivities From Morning Pancakes to Evening Fireworks
The festivities kick off bright and early with the Kiwanis Club Pancake Breakfast at 7:00 a.m. at the South Pasadena Fire Station (817 Mound Avenue), providing a warm, delicious start to the day.
At 10:30 a.m., the Opening Ceremony will take place on the steps of the South Pasadena Public Library Community Room (1115 El Centro Street), immediately followed by the parade at 11:00 a.m.
After the parade, Garfield Park will host family-friendly games, music by a live DJ, and food vendors from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., creating a festive atmosphere for all ages.
Fireworks Show and Concert at South Pasadena High School
The celebration concludes with a grand fireworks display at South Pasadena High School Stadium (1401 Fremont Avenue). Gates open at 7:00 p.m., followed by a live concert by Faultline from 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., and the fireworks show begins at 9:00 p.m.
Fireworks Ticket Info:
- Online presale: $15 per person (available until 6:00 p.m. on July 4)
- At the gate: $20 per person
- Children under 2: Free
Purchase tickets at: www.southpasadenaca.gov/events
About the City of South Pasadena
Located just six miles from downtown Los Angeles, South Pasadena is known as the City of Trees, celebrated for its scenic neighborhoods, historic charm, and tight-knit community. With a population of 25,000 spread across just 3.44 square miles, South Pasadena offers a unique blend of small-town atmosphere and metropolitan accessibility.
For more information, visit www.southpasadenaca.gov
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