Pasadena in November: Your Gateway into the Holidays

They say, “Everything’s bigger in Texas!” Whether your holiday season begins with Halloween or Thanksgiving preparations, the spirit of a joyful time takes hold of the masses, and with its big heart and bold fun, there’s plenty of it in Pasadena.

You are invited to kick off the holiday season fun at two of our annual events! Starting with the Taste of the Town, followed by the McDonald’s Texas Invitational Basketball Tournament, and concluding the month with Thanksgiving and holiday sales, November is the perfect time to celebrate with us. Visit Pasadena and learn what residents already know: There’s something for everyone! 

Taste of the Town 2025

Hosted by the Pasadena Chamber of Commerce and happening on Thursday, November 6, 2025, is the 37th annual Taste of the Town. This is one of our most beloved community events, where the Pasadena Convention Center is transformed into a showcase of sips and samples. For one night only, you will enjoy unlimited bites from over 30 local food and beverage vendors.

Taste of the Town is not only a foodie event showcasing savory Texas classics, international cuisine, decadent desserts, and locally crafted beverages, it’s also a chance to support many local vendors and students together.

Click here to register and purchase your ticket(s):

• VIP: $50 (Enter at 4 pm) 
• Adult: $30 (12 & up) 
• Child: $20 (6 - 12)
• Ages 5 & Under: Free

Your ticket is your entry into a market of vendors, samplings from 30+ restaurants, a live auction and more. It’s the only place in town where you will arrive hungry and leave with your heart and stomach full. 

McDonald’s Texas Invitational Basketball Tournament

There’s no better way to burn calories than wholeheartedly cheering for the high school athletes competing in the 22nd McDonald’s Texas Invitational Basketball Tournament (MTI).

From Thursday, November 20th, through Saturday, November 22nd, Pasadena residents and others will flock to MTI and collectively become one large supporter of the most determined basketball talent from the Pasadena and Deer Park School Districts. MTI is one of the premier high school basketball tournaments in the nation, with 48 boys’ teams and 32 girls’ teams battling it out on the court.

The success of MTI is no small feat with strong community support:

• A dedicated 30-member steering committee that works year-round.
• Close to 400 volunteers donate their time and efforts. 
• Businesses contribute more than $250K annually.

This exciting competition takes community pride and meaningful support for local education to a much higher level. By purchasing a ticket or a tournament pass, you’re making a slam dunk toward local education and the future of Pasadena. Join us and be part of the exciting and edifying energy for all three days!

Visit Pasadena

Consider this your official invitation to usher your way into the holidays with us! Pasadena sets the perfect stage for the season with both the Taste of the Town and the MTI wrapping up just before Thanksgiving. 

Get a head start on your gift list while visiting the various vendors at the Taste of the Town, or grab great athletic gear at the MTI for the basketball fans at home.

Whether you attend one event or both, you’ll feel like you belong. Come our way and #VisitPasadenaTX, just outside the big city, to start your most wonderful time of the year.