2026

Festival of Lights

Experience the Holiday Season at the Festival of Lights in Riverside

Riverside turns into a full holiday wonderland each year when the Mission Inn Hotel and Spa lights up with more than ten million twinkling lights and decorations. The moment the sun sets, downtown Riverside feels like it has stepped into its own storybook. The Main Street Pedestrian Mall transforms into a cheerful Christmas Bazaar filled with food, music, and local makers selling festive creations. Whether you love the excitement of the famous switch–on ceremony or you prefer a calm midweek stroll under glowing arches, the Festival has something for every kind of holiday spirit. It is no surprise that the Mission Inn Festival of Lights has earned national attention as one of the most stunning holiday displays in the country. Come admire this beautiful landmark in her holiday best and explore all the seasonal fun that surrounds it. 

 

Switch-on Ceremony: Saturday, November 21, 2026

Duration: Sunday, November 22 – December 31, 2026

Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day

Capture a Moment With Santa

Santa takes a break from his busy holiday schedule to spend some time in sunny Riverside before his big day. Bring the family and pay him a visit. Ask him for a pony or partridge, or just plead your case for a last-minute nice-list addition. Bring your camera because this year, all photos will be do-it-yourself; there will be no professional photographer on site. 

Two children wearing holiday attire posing for a photo with Santa

Festival of Trees

Aside from the fireworks on the first night, the Festival of Trees might be the biggest event during the Festival of Lights. The Riverside Convention Center hosts an arts and crafts fair on November 24th. Festivities include children’s activities, pictures with Santa, and a Christmas tree decorating competition. The Festival of Trees attracts thousands of visitors and is a treasured annual holiday event for Riverside. 

December ArtsWalk

The Riverside Arts Council hosts an ArtsWalk on the first Thursday of each month. The December edition features holiday-themed arts and crafts vendors and holiday-themed activities in many of the downtown museums, which are open free of charge for the event. ArtsWalk is a great way to see Riverside’s commitment to the arts, and all of the extra holiday cheer is a festive bonus. 

Learn more about all that’s happening during the Festival of Lights by visiting RiversideFestivalofLights.com.