Riverside Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Riverside and surrounding areas
Riverside welcomes the Christmas season with historic flair centered on the Mission Inn and downtown. The 33rd Annual Festival of Lights and the Mission Inn Hotel & Spa Festival of Lights create spectacular Holiday lights displays, seasonal events, and family-friendly things to do. From holiday markets to New Year's Eve celebrations and cozy neighborhood gatherings, the city offers warm seasonal entertainment and festive attractions for all ages.
Find the best Riverside Christmas happenings this year!
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Christmas Lights
16 eventsOver 10 million dazzling lights at a historic hotel
Christmas Shows
14 eventsA 78-year-old university tradition of worship and music.
Christmas Markets
13 eventsAuthentic Swedish Christmas market experience
Christmas Parties
6 eventsMulti-venue New Year's Eve bar crawl
Christmas Activities
49 eventsFestively decorated train with live entertainment and Santa.
Editor's Picks (6)
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The 33rd Annual Festival of Lights
(San Bernardino)
Over 10 million dazzling lights at a historic hotel
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Downtown Redlands Christmas Parade
(Redlands)
Annual Christmas parade with Santa Claus
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Metrolink Holiday Express Train
Festively decorated train with live entertainment and Santa.
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Feast of Lights
(Redlands)
A 78-year-old university tradition of worship and music.
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THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride
(Perris)
Magical train ride to meet Santa.
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Imaginarium at Fairplex: Land of Oz Light Spectacular
(Pomona)
Immersive walk-through light festival with 'Land of Oz' theme.
Events Happening Soon (6)
Riverside Christmas Events Map
See every Christmas event, light display, and market on one map.
Also Near Riverside
Christmas Events Road Trips & Weekend Getaways
Worth the drive for more holiday events near Riverside!
Riverside Christmas FAQ
The Mission Inn Festival of Lights is Riverside’s largest annual Christmas event, featuring millions of lights, live entertainment, and family activities. The Riverside Downtown Holiday Market also draws many visitors during the season.
Riverside’s tradition of illuminating the historic Mission Inn with millions of lights and animated displays is a unique and cherished holiday custom. The city also hosts community-focused markets and neighborhood light displays that foster local holiday spirit.
Neighborhoods near downtown Riverside and surrounding residential areas are known for their festive displays and welcoming atmosphere, offering great spots for walking or driving to enjoy holiday lights.
The Riverside Downtown Holiday Market is a central hub for local artisans and makers, with additional craft fairs and vendor stalls held throughout the city and nearby neighborhoods during the holiday season.
Visiting neighborhood light displays and attending free community markets are budget-friendly ways to enjoy the holidays. The city also offers free concerts and public events during the Festival of Lights season.
Families can enjoy the Festival of Lights with its holiday rides, ice skating rink, and children’s games at the Mission Inn. Local markets often feature kid-friendly crafts and seasonal treats, making them ideal for family outings.