‘Power Up Altadena’ Festival, Jan. 17, 2026.
On Saturday, January 17th, the Altadena community will come together to celebrate its rich cultural diversity and commemorate the one-year anniversary of the devastating Eaton Fire. The ‘Power Up Altadena’ festival, organized by Dena United, a coalition of over 10 legacy organizations, will take place from 11:00 am to 7:00 pm at the Westminster Presbyterian Church (1757 North Lake Ave, on the border of Pasadena and Altadena).
By News Desk
This free, family-friendly event is designed to be a day of healing, empowerment, and cultural celebration. The festival aims to honor the resilience of the Altadena community while supporting a cultural renaissance that’s been sparked in the wake of the fire. The festival will feature a variety of activities, including visionary music, workshops, and community engagement. It’s a celebration that reflects Altadena itself, with performances from local artists, inspirational speakers, and live world music genres such as jazz, African rhythms, and Hip Hop.
The event’s performances will be a cultural feast, featuring senior culture bearers and renowned musicians like Bobby Bradford, Dwight Trible, Baba Onochie Chukwurah, and the Rhythms of the Village Family Band. Also on the lineup are the Pan Afrikan Peoples Arkestra, Earthseed Band, and Whispering Giants, with special guest MCs Medusa and Myka 9. Additional performances will include local talent such as Kevin Sandbloom, Okay Colman, and Tara Zorthian, all contributing to the festival’s dynamic musical landscape.
The festival will also serve as an opportunity for the community to come together in remembrance and reflection. At 1:11 pm, there will be a Libation Ceremony with Baba Onochie Chukwurah and the Rhythms of the Village Family Band. At 2:22 pm, a special segment will honor Altadena elder culture bearers and commemorate those lost in the Eaton Fire, providing space for collective healing.
‘Power Up Altadena’ is not only about music and performances, it’s a platform for strengthening the community. Local artists, musicians, and activists are playing a key role in serving the cultural healing process post-fire. Workshops will be held throughout the day, engaging attendees in art, dialogue, and community-building activities. There will also be food trucks offering diverse cuisine, as well as a selection of solo artists showcasing their craft.
While the event is free, donations will be collected to support local healing arts initiatives and the ongoing empowerment of the Altadena community through legacy organizations. These donations will help fund programs aimed at reimagining Altadena’s cultural landscape and celebrating the community’s spirit.
For more details on the festival’s schedule, featured artists, and reservations, visit DenaUnited.org. Those interested in volunteering can reach out via email at DenaUnited@gmail.com.
Tentative Festival Schedule:
- 11:11 am: Youth performances, art workshops & family activities
- 12:12 pm: Solo artists, food trucks, and speakers
- 1:11 pm: Libation ceremony with Baba Onochie Chukwurah & Rhythms of the Village Family Band
- 2:22 pm: Speakers honoring Altadena elder culture bearers + Remembrance of lives lost to Eaton Fire
- 4:44 pm: Earthseed Band, Pan Afrikan Peoples Arkestra, guest artists
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