Prepare for an adventure-filled holiday season in Moreno Valley! Our guide features all the exciting festive activities. From Moreno Valley regulars to holiday tourists, our guide unlocks the city's festive treasures for everyone.
Kick off the holiday cheer by visiting the Festival of Lights, a dazzling display that transforms the area into a winter wonderland. Dive into the festive spirit with the unique drive-in experience offered at the Riverside Holiday Drive-In, where movies meet a magical holiday ambiance. And the Holiday Lights at Disneyland is something you definitely don't want to miss, featuring enchanting light displays and festive decorations. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
Please contact us if you have suggestions or corrections!
Got questions? Like to help? Check out our Moreno Valley Holiday discussion here!
The Top Christmas Events in Moreno Valley
See these and even more events listed below!Nearby Events
Festival of Lights (Riverside)
What to Expect:
Millions of lights illuminating historic Mission Inn Hotel
Description:
The Festival of Lights transforms Riverside's iconic Mission Inn Hotel into a dazzling spectacle. Millions of twinkling lights adorn the century-old landmark, creating a breathtaking display. Visitors can embark on guided tours to learn about the hotel's rich history dating back to 1876. The event features a towering Christmas tree and elaborate decorations throughout the grounds. Live performances by local choirs fill the air with melodious carols, adding to the joyous atmosphere. This beloved tradition has grown from a small celebration to a nationally recognized holiday attraction.
Website:
Riverside Holiday Drive-In (Riverside)
What to Expect:
Nostalgic drive-in movie experience with holiday classics
Description:
Riverside's Holiday Drive-In revives the classic American pastime with a festive twist. Families gather in their vehicles to enjoy beloved holiday films on a massive outdoor screen. The event harkens back to the 1950s when drive-in theaters were at their peak popularity in the United States. Attendees can tune their car radios to hear the movie audio, creating a cozy, private viewing experience. The drive-in serves up seasonal treats like peppermint hot cocoa and gingerbread cookies. You'll feel transported to a simpler time as you watch timeless holiday stories under the stars.
Website:
Holiday Lights at Disnelyland (Anaheim)
What to Expect:
Disney characters in holiday attire amidst elaborate light displays
Description:
Disneyland's holiday transformation sparkles with millions of lights adorning Main Street, U.S.A. and iconic attractions. The park's beloved characters don their finest holiday attire, delighting guests with special seasonal greetings. Sleeping Beauty's Castle glistens with icicle-like lights, creating a stunning centerpiece for the celebration. Visitors can experience a unique "snow" fall on Main Street, a rare treat in sunny Southern California. The event pays homage to Walt Disney's love for the holiday season, which dates back to the park's early years. Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of Disney magic combined with cherished holiday traditions.
Website:
Jingle Bell Run (Riverside)
What to Expect:
Runners wear jingle bells while supporting arthritis research
Description:
The Jingle Bell Run in Riverside combines fitness with philanthropy, as participants dash through the streets wearing festive jingle bells. This lively 5K race raises funds and awareness for arthritis research, a cause that affects millions of Americans. Runners of all ages and abilities join in, creating a symphony of jingling bells as they make their way through the course. The event originated in 1984 and has since spread to cities across the nation. Participants can form teams, dress in holiday-themed costumes, and compete for prizes. The run fosters a sense of community while supporting a crucial health cause.
Website:
Christmas Wonderland at Castle Park (Riverside)
What to Expect:
Medieval-themed amusement park with holiday overlay
Description:
Castle Park's Christmas Wonderland offers a unique blend of medieval charm and holiday cheer. The amusement park's year-round castle theme takes on a festive twist, with twinkling lights adorning turrets and drawbridges. Visitors can enjoy thrilling rides with a holiday spin, adding excitement to traditional celebrations. The park's miniature golf course transforms into a winter-themed adventure, complete with holiday obstacles. Castle Park, which opened in 1976, pays homage to Riverside's citrus heritage with orange-themed decorations. Guests can meet Santa in his castle throne room, a regal setting unlike typical mall encounters.
Website:
Christmas Wonderland at Castle Park
Temecula Chilled (Temecula)
What to Expect:
Ice skating rink in Southern California wine country
Description:
Temecula Chilled brings winter fun to the heart of Southern California's wine country. An outdoor ice skating rink takes center stage, offering a surprising contrast to the surrounding vineyards. Visitors can glide across the ice while taking in views of rolling hills dotted with grapevines. The event showcases Temecula's award-winning wines, allowing adults to sample local vintages after skating. Food trucks serve up gourmet comfort foods with a holiday twist. Temecula's rich history as a stagecoach stop in the 1800s is celebrated with vintage-inspired decorations throughout the town square.
Website:
Lake Arrowhead Village Christmas (Lake Arrowhead)
What to Expect:
Alpine-style Christmas celebration in a mountain village
Description:
Lake Arrowhead Village Christmas transports visitors to a charming Alpine-style celebration in the San Bernardino Mountains. The village, perched at 5,174 feet elevation, often boasts natural snowfall, creating an authentic winter atmosphere. Visitors can take a ride on the Arrowhead Queen, a paddlewheel boat tour offering stunning views of the lake and surrounding snow-capped mountains. The event pays tribute to the area's logging history with rustic decorations and wooden craft demonstrations. Local artisans showcase their wares in quaint chalets, offering unique mountain-inspired gifts. The crisp mountain air carries the scent of fresh pine, enhancing the alpine holiday experience.
Website:
Lake Arrowhead Village Christmas
Ontario Ice Skating (Ontario)
What to Expect:
Outdoor ice skating in a historic town square
Description:
Ontario's outdoor ice skating rink brings winter charm to Southern California's Inland Empire. The rink, set in the historic Euclid Avenue town square, offers a picturesque setting surrounded by century-old pepper trees. Skaters glide beneath twinkling lights, with the restored 1937 Granada Theatre as a backdrop. The event honors Ontario's agricultural roots with citrus-themed decorations adorning the square. Visitors can warm up with locally-roasted coffee from nearby cafes after their skating session. The rink's location on Euclid Avenue, once part of the historic Route 66, adds a nostalgic Americana touch to the holiday festivities.
Website:
Santa Claus Conquers the Martians (Redlands)
What to Expect:
Live stage adaptation of cult classic holiday film
Description:
Redlands' quirky holiday offering brings the cult classic film "Santa Claus Conquers the Martians" to life on stage. This campy production blends science fiction with holiday themes, creating a unique and humorous experience. The show takes place in Redlands' historic Fox Theater, built in 1928, adding a touch of vintage charm to the offbeat performance. Audience members can participate in an interactive pre-show, learning "Martian" dances and phrases. The production pays homage to the B-movie era of the 1960s with deliberately cheesy special effects and costumes. Prepare for an evening of laughter as you witness Santa's intergalactic adventures unfold before your eyes.
Website:
Santa Claus Conquers the Martians