• Arts & Entertainment

      When Hollywood Visited Pasadena

      A group of actors in costumes from a movie scene

      A still from D.W. Griffith’s “The Queen’s Necklace” with the Fényes Mansion is in the background (Photo – PMH)

      Pasadena may be known as the City of Roses, but at the Pasadena Museum of History, it will be celebrated as the city of stars (of the silver screen variety).

      By Reina Esparza

      On Sunday June 9, the Pasadena Museum of History will host “Happy Birthday Pasadena: Silver Screen Extravaganza,” a special movie-themed celebration for the city’s 138th birthday.

      The event is free to all and kicks off the museum’s new exhibition, “Lights! Camera! Action! Hollywood Magic in Pasadena,” which will explore how the city and its people served as backdrops and trailblazers for the early film industry.

      From 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm, the museum grounds will offer engaging activities that both adults and kids alike can participate in to be fully immersed in the movie magic. Silent movies will be screened throughout the event, including a 1929 Laurel and Hardy film, titled Big Business, which was filmed in Southern California.

      An actress by a fountain

      A still from “The Queen’s Necklace” at the Fényes Mansion fountain, 1912 (Photo – PMH)

      Dress up like a star of yesteryear

      Attendees are encouraged to dress up like stars of yesteryear while they walk the museum’s red carpet and have a chance to win free movie tickets. The freebies do not stop there, as movie themed gift baskets are up for grabs for those that can find 10 Oscar statues hidden throughout the venue.

      To further add to the spectacle, people are invited to take pictures on replica movie production sets as well as learn different dances of the past and the present.

      a mansion with people walking in the garden

      The Fényes Mansion (Photo – ©ColoradoBlvd.net).

      Creativity in action

      For the creatives in attendance, or anyone who wishes to partake, there will be a station to make your own top hat, tiara or movie themed headpiece. To watch creativity in action, chalk artists will also be on site, crafting intricate images live, as a sneak preview for the upcoming Pasadena Chalk Festival.

      Mayor Victor Gordo will also be in attendance to help close out the afternoon like any birthday bash would; with cake for everyone. As well as a drawing for the costumed winners of the free movie tickets.

      To stay updated about this movie extravaganza, visit the Pasadena Museum of History website.

      Happy Birthday Pasadena:
      Silver Screen Extravaganza
      Sunday, June 9
      12:00 pm - 4:00 pm
      Location
      Pasadena Museum of History
      470 W. Walnut St
      Pasadena, CA 91103

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