Festival of Lights
Entertainment, Seasonal - Holiday
Delight in Millions of Magical Lights
What began in 1992 as a small holiday lighting ceremony has turned into the crown jewel of annual holiday festivals in Southern California, and one of the most recognized and superlative holiday events in the United States.
Beginning the day after Thanksgiving, the Historic Mission Inn and downtown Riverside together unleash a holiday spirit unparalleled anywhere. With over 40,000 visitors waiting in anticipation, one flip of a switch illuminates the Mission Inn, downtown buildings, and palm trees with over 4 million lights, and sparks a firework show that rivals the best Fourth of July extravaganza.
