Pasadena families can cool off after sundown for free starting Thursday, July 9, when the city's Parks After Dark program kicks off its 15th season with a festival at Robinson Park.

The summer-long lineup runs Thursdays through Saturdays, packing city parks with nighttime swimming, outdoor movies, a foam party, Aztec dancing, basketball and soccer leagues, and a new addition: hands-on STEM activities led by Caltech scientists and engineers at select events. Most recurring programs wrap up the week of August 8, with the overall program running through Friday, August 14, according to the city's Parks, Recreation and Community Services Department.

Kickoff night

The opening festival runs 6–9 p.m. Thursday, July 9, at Robinson Park, 1081 N. Fair Oaks Ave. The city is offering free food, games, arts and crafts, live music, and community sports.

What's on the calendar

Movies in the Park — Fridays, July 10 through August 8, at parks across the city. Bring blankets and lawn chairs.

Aqua Boogie Nights — Saturdays, July 11 through August 8, at Kennedy Pool (at Robinson Park, 1081 N. Fair Oaks Ave.) and Villa Parke Pool (363 E. Villa St.). Children must be accompanied by an adult; proper swim attire required.

Foam & Glow Frenzy — Thursday, July 16, 8–9:30 p.m., Villa Parke Community Center Softball Field, 363 E. Villa St. A foam, music, and glow-accessories dance party.

World Cup Soccer Tournament with Dena United — Friday, July 24, Robinson Park.

Aztec Dance Toltecayotl — Saturday, July 25, Villa Parke Community Center. Traditional Aztec dance steps, movement, and live drumming.

Teen Neon Party (ages 12–17) — Thursday, July 30, 6–9 p.m., La Pintoresca Teen Education Center, 1415 N. Raymond Ave.

The program also runs adult and youth basketball leagues on Thursdays at Robinson Park Recreation Center Gym and adult soccer leagues on Thursdays and Fridays at Villa Parke's turf field. Dates and locations for the Caltech STEM sessions have not yet been announced.

How to join

All activities are free. Registration is required only for select leagues and programs. The full schedule is available at CityOfPasadena.net/Parks-And-Rec or by phone at (626) 744-6530. For accessibility accommodations, contact [email protected] or call (626) 744-7311.

Upcoming community events in Pasadena

  • Parks After Dark Kickoff Festival — Thursday, July 9, 6–9 p.m., Robinson Park
  • Movies in the Park — Fridays starting July 10, various parks
  • Levitt VIBE Pasadena Music Series — Free concerts beginning Saturday, July 11, Memorial Park
  • Aqua Boogie Nights — Saturdays starting July 11, Kennedy and Villa Parke pools