Best Christmas Events In Riverside County To Enjoy The Season In 2026

Last Updated September 17, 2026. We check dates against official event organizers whenever possible. Events without confirmed 2026 dates are marked TBD.

Looking for the best Christmas events in Riverside County in 2026? From the spectacular Mission Inn Festival of Lights in Riverside to festive parades, Christmas train rides, and dazzling light displays throughout the Coachella Valley, there’s plenty of holiday magic to experience across the county.

Whether you’re planning a romantic Christmas outing, looking for family-friendly activities, or searching for free holiday celebrations, we’ve gathered top Christmas events in Riverside County to help you plan your season. Discover illuminated holiday attractions, festive markets, ice skating, visits with Santa, and traditional community celebrations.

Our 2026 Riverside County Christmas events guide includes event dates, locations, admission information, and links to official organizers. We’ve also identified events still awaiting their 2026 announcements so you can plan with confidence.

Use our at-a-glance table below to find the perfect holiday events for your Christmas calendar.

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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Riverside County Christmas Events 2026 at a Glance

Looking for the best Christmas events in Riverside County? Use this quick-reference guide to find holiday lights, parades, train rides, and festive celebrations throughout the county.

Planning notes: *The Mission Inn hotel’s holiday season extends through January 3, 2027. The City of Riverside’s downtown festival has different operating dates. **Peltzer’s published skating calendar lists November 18–January 18. Check available sessions before visiting. Event dates and details are subject to change.

Best Christmas Light Displays in Riverside County

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 21, 2026 – January 3, 2027 (Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day)
Location: 3649 Mission Inn Avenue
More Info: Mission Inn Festival of Lights

Candy Land at White Park – Riverside

New for 2026, Candy Land at White Park adds another festive experience to Riverside’s beloved Festival of Lights. Just a short walk from the Mission Inn, this ticketed attraction features an illuminated holiday maze, glowing photo trails, interactive games, and original light installations created by local artists. Families can enjoy the Snowball Arena, explore an artisan marketplace, and warm up with seasonal treats and hot cocoa. Consider combining a visit to Candy Land with an evening stroll past the Mission Inn’s spectacular Christmas lights for a memorable holiday outing in downtown Riverside.

Dates: November 27–December 27, 2026. Thursday–Sunday, 5–10 p.m., through December 17; daily, 5–10 p.m., December 18–27.
Location: White Park, 3936 Chestnut Street, Riverside, CA 92501
Admission: $15 Thursday, Friday, and Sunday; $20 Saturday and December 18–27. Children ages 2 and under are free
Website: Riverside Arts Council – Candy Land at White Park

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

Christmas Nights at 123 Farm – Cherry Valley

Celebrate the holiday season at Christmas Nights at 123 Farm, where more than one million twinkling lights transform the lavender fields, olive groves, historic buildings, and a 1,000-year-old oak tree into a dazzling winter wonderland. Stroll through a festive Christmas village, browse the 12 Days of Christmas artisan shops, and enjoy seasonal treats and organic hot cocoa.

Families can explore an illuminated holiday maze, take a tractor wagon ride through the glowing fields, and capture memorable photos with Santa on select dates. With beautiful light displays and plenty of festive activities, this Riverside County Christmas attraction offers a holiday outing for couples and families alike.

Dates: November 5, 2026 – January 3, 2027 (select days).
Times: Weekdays: 5–10 p.m.; weekends: 2–10 p.m.
Location: 123 Farm at Highland Springs Ranch & Inn, 10600 Highland Springs Avenue, Cherry Valley, CA 92223. General admission parking entrance: 41267 Grand Avenue, Beaumont.
Website: Christmas Nights at 123 Farm

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 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–December 2026
Location: Empire Polo Club in Indio
Website: https://magicoflights.com/

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: 2026 Dates TBD
Time: 6 pm – 9 pm
Location: 47900 Portola Ave, Palm Desert, CA 92260
Website: https://www.livingdesert.org/events/wildlights/2025-11-25/

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

Christmas Parades and Tree Lightings

Palm Springs Festival of Lights Parade – Palm Springs

Experience one of Riverside County’s most beloved holiday traditions at the Palm Springs Festival of Lights Parade. Each December, downtown Palm Springs comes alive with elaborately decorated floats illuminated by thousands of colorful lights, giant holiday balloons, marching bands, and festive performances.

Watch as the dazzling procession travels along Palm Canyon Drive, bringing holiday cheer to spectators of all ages. Santa and Mrs. Claus are traditionally part of the festivities, adding to the Christmas magic. This free, family-friendly event is a wonderful way to celebrate the holiday season in the Coachella Valley. Arrive early to secure a viewing spot along the parade route.

Date: Saturday, December 5, 2026, at 5:45 p.m.
Location: Palm Canyon Drive, Downtown Palm Springs, CA. The parade begins at Ramon Road and travels north to Tachevah Road.
Admission: Free.
Website: Palm Springs Festival of Lights Parade – Official Website

Santa’s Electric Light Parade – Temecula

Celebrate the magic of Christmas in Old Town Temecula at the annual Santa’s Electric Light Parade! This festive nighttime procession fills the streets with illuminated floats, dazzling holiday decorations, marching bands, and cheerful community groups. Watch as the parade travels through historic Old Town, bringing Christmas spirit to families and visitors of all ages. Santa Claus joins the celebration, making this a memorable holiday tradition for children and adults alike. Bring blankets and lawn chairs, arrive early to find a good viewing spot, and enjoy one of Temecula’s most festive holiday events.

Date: Friday, December 4, 2026, at 7 p.m.
Location: Old Town Temecula, CA. The parade begins at Jefferson Avenue and Del Rio Road and travels south into Old Town Temecula.
Admission: Free.
Website: Santa’s Electric Light Parade – City of Temecula

Norco Christmas Festival & Parade of Lights – Norco

Celebrate the holiday season with a Western twist at Norco’s Christmas Festival & Parade of Lights! Known as Horsetown USA, Norco brings its equestrian heritage to this festive celebration featuring holiday entertainment, food and craft vendors, pony rides, a petting zoo, train rides, games, and crafts.

Start your day with Breakfast with Santa, then explore the festival before enjoying the evening’s highlight: the Horsetown Parade of Lights. Watch illuminated floats, decorated vehicles, and festive equestrian groups travel along Sixth Street in a dazzling nighttime procession.

With free festival admission and parade viewing, this event offers plenty of Christmas fun for the whole family. Additional fees apply for certain activities.

Date: Saturday, December 12, 2026.

• Breakfast with Santa: 7:30 a.m.–12:15 p.m.
• Christmas Festival: 8 a.m.–8 p.m.
• Parade of Lights: 5 p.m.

Location: Ingalls Event Center, 3737 Crestview Drive, Norco, CA 92860. The parade travels along Sixth Street from Corona Avenue to the Ingalls Event Center.

Admission: Festival admission, parking, and parade viewing are free. Activity wristbands cost $10 per person; Breakfast with Santa costs $5 per person and requires advance online reservations.

Website: City of Norco – Christmas Festival & Parade of Lights 

Hemet – Hemet Christmas Parade

The City of Hemet is excited to announce its annual Christmas Parade, followed by Christmas in the Park at Weston Park!

Date: 2026 Dates TBD
Location: The route begins on Gilbert St./Florida Ave. and ends on Santa Fe St./Florida Ave.

Menifee Christmas Tree Lighting & Holiday Bazaar – Menifee

Celebrate the holiday season at Menifee’s annual Christmas Tree Lighting & Holiday Bazaar! This festive community gathering brings families together for an evening of Christmas cheer at Mt. San Jacinto College. Browse holiday gifts and handcrafted treasures from local vendors, enjoy seasonal entertainment, and join the community for the magical countdown to the lighting of the Christmas tree. Past celebrations have also featured visits with Santa, snow play, holiday treats, and family-friendly activities. Whether you’re shopping for unique Christmas gifts or simply looking for a festive evening with the family, Menifee’s holiday celebration is a wonderful way to embrace the spirit of the season. The complete 2026 activity schedule has not yet been announced.

Date: Saturday, December 5, 2026, from 4–8 p.m.
Location: Mt. San Jacinto College, Menifee Campus, 28237 La Piedra Road, Menifee, CA 92584.
Website: City of Menifee – Official Special Events Calendar

Christmas Events Lake Elsinore

Lake Elsinore Winterfest – Lake Elsinore

Celebrate the magic of Christmas in historic downtown Lake Elsinore at the annual Winterfest! Main Street transforms into a festive holiday gathering place with local vendors, family-friendly amusements, live entertainment, and opportunities to take photos with Santa in Gediman Square. Browse holiday gifts, enjoy seasonal festivities, and soak up the Christmas spirit at this free community celebration. The event traditionally includes a holiday parade and snow activities, although specific details for these attractions have not yet been confirmed for 2026. With activities for all ages, Lake Elsinore Winterfest offers a festive way to welcome the Christmas season.

Date: Saturday, December 5, 2026, from 4–8:30 p.m.
Location: Downtown Main Street, Lake Elsinore, CA 92530.
Admission: Free.
Website: City of Lake Elsinore – Winterfest 2026 

Corona Holiday Lighting Celebration – Corona

Kick off the Christmas season at Corona’s annual Holiday Lighting Celebration, a festive community gathering on the front lawn of the Historic Civic Center. Families can enjoy live holiday performances, meet festive characters, write letters to Santa, and capture memorable photos with Santa himself. Children will love the snow play area, while visitors can browse holiday shopping vendors and enjoy seasonal food. The celebration brings the community together for an evening of twinkling lights, entertainment, and Christmas cheer, making it a wonderful holiday outing for families and couples alike.

Date: Sunday, December 6, 2026, from 4–7 p.m.
Location: Historic Civic Center Front Lawn, 815 W. Sixth Street, Corona, CA 92882.
Website: City of Corona – Official 2026 Fall Event Guide 

Christmas Train Rides, Ice Skating and Family Attractions

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 – Beginning November 11, 2026
Location: 2201 S A St, Perris, CA 92570
Admission: Tickets start at $56.25 for adults and $49.25 for children, with fees included, on value departures.
Tickets: https://socalthepolarexpressride.com/

Temecula – Peltzer Ice Rink

Get ready to create some holiday magic at the Peltzer Ice Rink. 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 18, 2026–January 18, 2027 (Check the official session calendar before reserving)
Location: Peltzer Pumpkin Farm
Website: Peltzer Ice Rink

More Riverside County Christmas Events in 2026

Looking for even more ways to celebrate Christmas in Riverside County? From a festive charity run to old-fashioned holiday celebrations at historic properties, these additional events offer opportunities to enjoy the season throughout the county. Here are four more Christmas events to add to your holiday calendar.

Temecula – Santa’s Arrival and Christmas Tree Lighting

Kick off the Christmas season in Temecula with two festive celebrations! Santa makes his grand arrival in Old Town Temecula at Pennypickle’s Workshop, where families can welcome him to his cozy cottage and return for weekend visits throughout the holiday season. A few days later, head to the Temecula Duck Pond for the city’s annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony. Enjoy festive music, hot chocolate, and a special appearance by Santa Claus as the community gathers to illuminate the Christmas tree. Together, these family-friendly celebrations offer a wonderful way to welcome the holiday season in Temecula.

Dates:

• Santa’s Arrival: Friday, November 27, 2026, 6–9 p.m. Additional Santa visits: Saturdays, 10 a.m.–1 p.m., and Sundays, 1–4 p.m., November 28–December 20.
• Christmas Tree Lighting: Monday, November 30, 2026, 7–8:30 p.m.

Locations:

• Santa’s Arrival: Pennypickle’s Workshop, 42081 Main Street, Temecula, CA 92590.
• Christmas Tree Lighting: Temecula Duck Pond, 28250 Ynez Road, Temecula, CA 92591.

Website: City of Temecula – Holiday Events 

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.

This Temecula event encompasses Wine Country, Old Town and Pechanga. Visit to participate in seasonal fun, see dazzling lights, and snap a photo with Mr. & Mrs. Claus! Activities and more

Dates: November 27 – December 31, 2026
Website: https://www.visittemeculavalley.com/temecula-chilled/

Santa Trot Christmas 5K Run/Walk – Jurupa Valley

Get into the holiday spirit while supporting a good cause at the Santa Trot Christmas 5K Run/Walk at Rancho Jurupa Regional Park. This family-friendly event invites participants to run or walk a festive 5K while helping local holiday gift programs. Whether you’re an experienced runner or simply looking for an active way to celebrate the Christmas season, the Santa Trot offers an opportunity to enjoy the outdoors and give back to the community. Participants can contribute a gift donation or pay the $20 entry fee, with proceeds benefiting local holiday gift programs.

Date: Saturday, December 5, 2026. Event hours: 7–11 a.m.; 5K begins at 9 a.m.
Location: Rancho Jurupa Regional Park, 4800 Crestmore Road, Jurupa Valley, CA 92509
Website: RivCoParks – 2026 Event Guide 

Yuletide Celebration at Lake Skinner – Winchester

Celebrate the Christmas season at Lake Skinner Recreation Area’s Yuletide Celebration, a festive afternoon of family activities and holiday giving. Visitors can enjoy food trucks, take photos with Santa Claus, and participate in a community toy drive that helps spread Christmas cheer to local families. Set against the scenic backdrop of Lake Skinner, this event combines seasonal festivities with an opportunity to support the community. Bring the family and consider contributing a toy to help make the holidays brighter for a child in need.

Date: Saturday, December 12, 2026, from 3–7 p.m.
Location: Lake Skinner Recreation Area, 37701 Warren Road, Winchester, CA 92596.
Website: RivCoParks – 2026 Event Guide 

Olde Tyme Christmas at Gilman Historic Ranch – Banning

Step back in time and experience a traditional Christmas celebration at Gilman Historic Ranch and Wagon Museum in Banning. This annual holiday event celebrates the charm of Christmases past at a historic Riverside County ranch. Previous celebrations have featured stagecoach rides, Christmas carolers, blacksmith demonstrations, historic house tours, holiday crafts, and visits with Santa Claus. It’s an opportunity to combine Christmas festivities with a glimpse into the region’s history. The event is confirmed for 2026, although the complete schedule of activities and admission details have not yet been announced.

Date: Saturday, December 12, 2026, from 10 a.m.–3 p.m.
Location: Gilman Historic Ranch & Wagon Museum, 1901 W. Wilson Street, Banning, CA 92220
Website: RivCoParks – 2026 Event Guide 

Christmas at the Crestmore – Jurupa Valley

Celebrate Christmas at the historic Crestmore Manor, where Riverside County Parks is hosting a family-friendly holiday gathering. Visitors can enjoy festive games, craft stations, seasonal snacks, and photo opportunities in the picturesque setting of this historic estate. The event gives families a chance to spend time together, enjoy hands-on holiday activities, and experience the Christmas spirit at one of Riverside County’s distinctive historic properties. Confirm additional event details, including any admission requirements, with the organizer before attending.

Date: Saturday, December 19, 2026, from 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
Location: Crestmore Manor, 4600 Crestmore Road, Jurupa Valley, CA 92509
Website: RivCoParks – 2026 Event Guide 

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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