Although the traditional Doo Dah Parade won’t be gallivanting down the streets of Pasadena this year, organizers of the eccentric event aren’t going quietly, preparing for Sunday’s “The Doo Dah Takeover,” described as “a two-part celebration of music, mayhem, and merriment in Old Pasadena.”
The day will begin at Dog Haus Biergarten at 93 E. Green St., with a cabaret of Doo Dah legends and queen tryouts from 11 a.m. to 2:45 p.m.
The festivities continue a few blocks away at The Old Towne Pub at 66 N. Fair Oaks Ave. for a 21+ after-party from 3-6 p.m., featuring the coronation of Doo Dah’s 2025 queen, followed by live music.
For the queen tryouts, individuals of every gender, shape and persuasion will test their mettle to win the coveted crown, though contenders must be at least 21 years of age. Hopefuls are asked to “dress to fit the part and be ready to put on a show.”
Known as the “twisted sister” of the conventional Rose Parade on Jan. 1, the Doo Dah Parade began as a grassroots event in 1978 to gain national attention for its eccentric satire. The parade, which has spawned numerous off-beat replicants across the country, is co-produced by Light Bringer Project and the Doo Dah Preservation Society.
Organizers said they decided to forego the usual parade this year “to conserve financial resources and sustain the high quality of programs we deliver throughout the community in spite of this year’s wildfires and concerns over possible cuts in education.”
More information can be found at pasadenadoodahparade.info.