More than 10 million lights, nightly snowfall and a first-time Build-A-Bear Workshop partnership bring holiday magic to downtown Riverside
Every holiday season, downtown Riverside trades its everyday glow for something straight out of a storybook. From Nov. 21, 2026, through Jan. 3, 2027, The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa will once again transform into a winter wonderland for its 34th annual Festival of Lights, complete with more than 10 million twinkling lights, festive décor and nightly snowfall.
This year carries extra meaning. The historic landmark is celebrating 150 years since it welcomed its first paying guest on Nov. 22, 1876, back when it was a modest adobe boarding house called the Glenwood Cottage. Today, the Festival of Lights ranks among Southern California’s most cherished holiday traditions, and USA Today has named it one of the best public lights displays in the country.
“Each year, the Festival of Lights creates a sense of wonder and joy that brings our community together during the holiday season,” said Alfredo Anguiano, general manager at The Mission Inn. “We’re thrilled to welcome new and returning guests back to experience the original magic and create everlasting memories that have made the holidays a beloved annual celebration at The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa.”
Kick Off the Season at the Switch-On Ceremony
The festivities officially begin Saturday, Nov. 21, with the free Festival of Lights Switch-On Ceremony. The celebration starts at 5 p.m. at Orange Street and Mission Inn Avenue with live performances and the illumination of millions of lights, followed by a fireworks show. The City of Riverside recommends arriving no later than 4:30 p.m. to grab a good spot.
Returning Favorites and New Surprises
Throughout the season, the resort’s signature displays and festivities make their return, including meet-and-greets with Santa and Mrs. Claus, the beloved lobby Gingerbread House and the Holiday Market, where visitors can warm up with fresh hot cocoa and browse themed retail.
New this year, an all-new Festival of Lights gift shop will open its doors, offering holiday merchandise year-round so guests can take home a token of holiday cheer whenever they visit. The Mission Inn is also partnering with Build-A-Bear Workshop for the first time, giving guests the chance to create personalized furry friends during select Festival of Lights pop-up events throughout the season.
Book a Little Extra Magic
Hotel guests and local visitors can reserve VIP experiences, including Breakfast with Santa at The Steakhouse on select weekends, the Memories with Santa Photo Studio on select days and the Festival of Lights & Delights Tour on select evenings.
Those who book a stay get even more holiday cheer, with exclusive access to resort credit, in-room Christmas trees and family story time with Santa’s elves.
Make a Night of It Downtown
The fun extends beyond the hotel walls. The City of Riverside’s ice rink returns at the corner of Mission Inn Avenue and Orange Street, just across from the hotel, so guests can skate with the glowing Mission Inn as their backdrop. Check the city’s Festival of Lights page for the latest hours and pricing. To skip the hunt for parking, hop on Riverside Transit Agency, and check out Visit Riverside for more ways to explore downtown during the season.
Q&A:
Q: When is the Mission Inn Festival of Lights?
A: The 34th annual Festival of Lights runs Nov. 21, 2026, through Jan. 3, 2027, at The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa in downtown Riverside.
Q: When and where is the Switch-On Ceremony?
A: The free Switch-On Ceremony takes place Saturday, Nov. 21, at 5 p.m. at Orange Street and Mission Inn Avenue, with a fireworks show to follow. Plan to arrive by 4:30 p.m.
Q: Does it cost anything to attend?
A: The Switch-On Ceremony is free and open to the public. Some experiences, including Breakfast with Santa, the Memories with Santa Photo Studio and the Festival of Lights & Delights Tour, require booking.
Q: What’s new this year?
A: This season brings an all-new Festival of Lights gift shop with holiday merchandise available year-round, plus a first-time partnership with Build-A-Bear Workshop featuring select pop-up events.
Q: Can I stay overnight at The Mission Inn during the festival?
A: Yes. Hotel guests receive exclusive perks during the festival, including resort credit, in-room Christmas trees and family story time with Santa’s elves. Explore current offers and packages to plan your stay.
The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa
3649 Mission Inn Ave
Riverside, CA 92501
951.784.0300
www.missioninn.com
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