Kidspace Welcomes Over 3,500 Guests for Pasadena’s Celebration of the Young Child Kick-Off

This September, the smallest members of our community got the biggest celebration! Kidspace partnered with the City of Pasadena to host the Celebration of the Young Child Kick-Off, a free community festival that brought together more than 3,500 young children, families, and city and early childhood leaders for a joyful day of learning, play, connection, and support.

The event, held at Brookside Park and Kidspace Museum, marked the official start of Pasadena’s week-long Celebration of the Young Child, a citywide initiative recognizing Pasadena’s designation as a City of Early Learning. The festival celebrated the creativity, curiosity, and promise of children ages 0-5, while connecting families with valuable early childhood resources and opportunities.

Families were invited to explore a Touch-A-Truck zone where kids could climb on bucket trucks, backhoes, and other city vehicles. Local organizations supporting children and families provided playful activities, resources, and information. Families rested and played in shady picnic areas with bouncy ponies, bubbles, and hands-on family activities, while food trucks and vendors kept everyone well fed.

Guests also enjoyed free admission to Kidspace’s Halloween Bash, officially kicking off the museum’s seasonal festivities with a Halloween costume parade led by Mayor Victor Gordo. City and community leaders joined together on the Kidspace Halloween stage for a special opening presentation, highlighting Pasadena’s shared commitment to supporting early learning and family well-being.

“Hosting this celebration alongside the City of Pasadena is a natural extension of our mission to nurture the potential of all children to become joyful, active learners,” said Lisa Clements, Kidspace CEO. “Seeing hundreds of families come together to celebrate our city’s earliest learners was truly inspiring, and it reflects the strength and care of our community.”

Eva Rivera, Coordinator of Pasadena’s Office of the Young Child, added, “Our partnership with Kidspace embodies what it means to be a City of Early Learning. Together, we’re creating joyful spaces where families can connect, children can explore, and our community can grow stronger.”

As a long-time partner in Pasadena’s early learning initiatives, Kidspace is proud to play a role in this meaningful collaboration. The Celebration of the Young Child Kick-Off was not only a day of fun—it was a powerful reminder of what’s possible when a city comes together to champion its youngest residents and invest in their bright futures.