The holiday season brings the magic of Christmas. This is the time when families and friends come together to celebrate, create cherished memories, and spread joy and love. And what better way to do that than by attending some of the best Christmas events in Riverside County?

From dazzling light displays to festive parades, there are plenty of activities happening all throughout Riverside County during this special time of year. But with so many options, it can be hard to narrow down which ones are worth your time. That’s where we come in.

We’ve scoured the county for the most magical and memorable Christmas events, guaranteeing a jolly good time for all ages. So whether you’re looking for a traditional celebration or something unique and unexpected, we’ve got you covered.

Important Note: Please visit the attractions’ websites before visiting for the latest information and specific guidelines for each listed attraction.  Information may change after it is posted on our website.

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Christmas Events Hemet

Hemet – Hemet Christmas Parade

The City of Hemet is excited to announce this year’s annual Christmas Parade on Saturday, December 6, 2025, followed by Christmas in the Park at Weston Park!

Date: December 6, 2025
Time: 5:30 pm to 9 pm
Location: The route begins on Gilbert St./Florida Ave. and ends on Santa Fe St./Florida Ave.

Christmas Events Indio

Indio – Magic of Lights

Get ready to be dazzled by the fourth annual “Magic of Lights” where you can experience this sparkling drive-through holiday tradition from the comfort of your car. Wind your way through incredible light displays like Toyland, a 32-foot-tall animated Christmas Barbie, and the brand-new 750-foot palm tree tunnel. Using over 2 million LED lights, this event promises a magical journey for one set price per carload. Plus, don’t miss the “Holiday Village,” a special walk-through attraction featuring additional festive activities to make your holiday season truly memorable.

Dates: November 10 – December 31, 2025
Location: Empire Polo Club in Indio
Website: https://magicoflights.com/

Christmas Events Palm Desert

Palm Desert – WildLights at Living Desert Zoo and Gardens

Place yourself among more than one million colorful, twinkling lights. Stroll through light tunnels set to holiday music.  Watch model trains travel on thousands of feet of track.  You can even get your photo taken with Santa.  It’s a unique way to enjoy the native plants of the Southern California desert.

Dates: November 25 – December 30, 2025
Time: 6 pm – 9 pm
Location: 47900 Portola Ave, Palm Desert, CA 92260
Admission: Adults starting $15.95
Website: https://www.livingdesert.org/events/wildlights/2025-11-25/

Stay Nearby – Hotel Paseo, Autograph Collection by Marriott
Rated 9.4 on Expedia

Christmas Events Perris

Perris – The Polar Express Train Ride

Hop on a magical train ride.  This one-hour adventure is set to the film’s soundtrack. Relive the classic story as you are whisked away to meet Santa himself. Enjoy delicious shortbread, hot chocolate, and punch served by dancing chefs.  Read along with the classic book during your ride.

Dates: Select days – November 20 through December 31, 2025
Location: 2201 S A St, Perris, CA 92570
Tickets: https://socalthepolarexpressride.com/

Stay Nearby –  Ayres Hotel & Spa Moreno Valley
Rated 9.4 on Expedia

Christmas Events Riverside

Riverside – Christmas at Fox Performing Arts Center

Catch a variety of shows this holiday season at the Fox Performing Arts Center in Riverside. Here’s what’s playing this year:

November 29, 2025: Christmas with the Beatles
December 6, 2025: Swan Lake By International Ballet Stars
December 12, 2025: Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland
December 20-21, 2025: Inland Pacific Ballet Presents The Nutcracker

Location: Fox Performing Arts Center in Riverside
Website: Fox Performing Arts Center

Riverside – Mission Inn Festival of Lights

During the holidays, the Mission Inn in Riverside is draped with millions of lights.  It shows a magnificent glow and sets the mood for the holidays. USA Today has called it the “Best Public Lights Display” in the nation. It’s one of the largest holiday light collections in the United States and attracts visitors from across the country.

Dates: November 22 – December 31, 2025
Location: 3700-3662 Mission Inn Avenue, Riverside, CA 92501
More Info: Mission Inn Festival of Lights

Stay Nearby –  Ayres Hotel & Spa Moreno Valley
Rated 4.6 on Expedia

Christmas Events Temecula

Temecula – Peltzer Ice Rink

Get ready to create some holiday magic at the Peltzer Ice Rink, returning for its 8th season in November 2025! Located at the Peltzer Pumpkin Farm, this family-friendly attraction invites everyone from Southern California to enjoy its 8,400-square-foot skating space. Whether you’re gliding on the ice, enjoying hot cocoa and snacks, or grabbing a bite from a local food truck, there’s something for everyone. For the adults, the Rink & Drink Bar serves Peltzer Wine, Sangria, and local beer. Find the rink in its new location near the Farm Parking Lot at entrance 3, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure, rain or shine!

Dates: November 14, 2025 – January 19, 2026
Location: Peltzer Pumpkin Farm
Website: Peltzer Ice Rink

Temecula – Temecula Chilled Holiday Market

Experience “Temecula Chilled” in Temecula Valley, Southern California Wine Country. It’s a great way to get into the holiday spirit. Relax in winter sunshine while sipping wine, ice-skating, viewing colorful light displays, enjoying “chilled” menu items, and taking in the sights and sounds of the season.

Visit to see this beautiful Historical Property dazzling with lights and snap a photo with Mr. & Mrs. Claus! Activities and more

Dates: November 28 – December 31, 2025

Website: https://www.visittemeculavalley.com/temecula-chilled/

Bookmark our Southern California Christmas Events Guide

Southern California offers many things to do between November and January to keep you in the holiday spirit.  We hope you’ve found this Southern California Christmas Events directory helpful and wish you a wonderful winter season.  Thanks for visiting our website.

We hope to see you at the places where we go.

Julie & Art

Check out more seasonal event guides

Halloween events in Southern California – Bookmark it for next year!
Julefest Christmas in Solvang, California
Celebrate Victorian Christmas in Nevada City, California

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