The Pasadena Strawberry Festival will officially open on Thursday, May 14, 2026, at 5 p.m. with a special Opening Ceremony featuring the unveiling of a statue honoring Clara Barton, founder of the American Red Cross.

The tribute celebrates Barton’s legacy of compassion, service, and humanitarian leadership in a partnership between the American Red Cross and the City of Pasadena. Community members, festival attendees, civic leaders, and special guests will gather for the historic unveiling, with artist Holly Denslow also in attendance.

The Opening Ceremony will include welcoming remarks, special recognition, and the official start of four days of family-friendly festivities, beginning with the presentation of the World’s Largest Strawberry Shortcake.

The Pasadena Strawberry Festival invites the community to join in this meaningful kickoff that blends history, honor, strawberries, and hometown pride.

For event details, schedules, and tickets, visit www.StrawberryFest.org.