A Holiday Wonderland: Riverside’s Mission Inn Festival of Lights Lights Up the Season

Published on December 20, 2025

Riverside’s historic Mission Inn Hotel & Spa has long been the heart of one of the most spectacular holiday festivals in the United States. The Mission Inn Festival of Lights, now in its 33rd year, transforms this iconic hotel into a dazzling winter wonderland, attracting visitors from all over the country to experience the magic of over 10 million Christmas lights. Located just 60 miles east of Los Angeles, Riverside has become a must-visit destination for holiday travelers, with the Mission Inn Festival of Lights being the city’s crown jewel.

Each year, the Mission Inn Hotel & Spa, a luxurious, fairytale-like property, becomes a festive beacon for visitors seeking a magical Christmas experience. The festival features enormous ornaments, dazzling animatronics, towering Christmas trees, and a variety of festive attractions, all set against the backdrop of the hotel’s stunning architecture. The event is a beloved tradition, offering a blend of holiday cheer, history, and family-friendly fun.

A Glimmering Spectacle of Lights

The centerpiece of the Mission Inn Festival of Lights is, of course, the thousands of twinkling lights that cover the hotel’s exterior. The hotel’s distinctive Spanish-Colonial Revival architecture provides the perfect canvas for the over-the-top light display, which is one of the largest in the country. Visitors marvel at the towering Christmas trees decked out in sparkling ornaments and the illuminated walkways that wind throughout the property.

The light displays are carefully curated each year, with new additions and themes that keep the experience fresh for returning visitors. These intricate light installations draw people in, from couples seeking a romantic evening to families excited to immerse themselves in the holiday atmosphere. The sheer scale of the event is awe-inspiring, and the best part is that it’s free to visit, making it accessible to a wide audience.

Holiday Attractions and Festive Fun

Beyond the mesmerizing light display, the Mission Inn Festival of Lights offers an abundance of activities that make it a full-fledged holiday experience. Carnival rides are a major draw, providing entertainment for kids of all ages. The festive rides, including a Ferris wheel, carousel, and train, are set against the backdrop of the stunning lights, adding to the magic of the event.

Food vendors offering seasonal treats like hot cocoa, roasted chestnuts, and holiday-themed snacks line the streets surrounding the hotel, creating the perfect atmosphere for enjoying the holiday season. Visitors can indulge in these delicious offerings as they take in the sights and sounds of the festival, making the experience even more festive and memorable.

Enchanted Animatronics and Holiday Performances

The Mission Inn Festival of Lights also features an enchanting array of animatronics that bring the holiday spirit to life. From Santa and his reindeer to whimsical holiday characters, the animated displays delight children and adults alike. The hotel’s courtyards and public spaces are filled with these larger-than-life characters, many of which move and interact with visitors, creating an immersive and magical experience.

Throughout the festival, there are also live performances, including local choirs, musicians, and dance troupes. These performances, often set in the charming courtyard or outdoor areas, add a festive soundtrack to the event, further immersing visitors in the holiday atmosphere. The combination of lights, animatronics, and live entertainment makes the Mission Inn Festival of Lights a truly multi-sensory holiday experience.

A Holiday Tradition in Riverside

The Mission Inn Festival of Lights has become a beloved tradition for locals and tourists alike. For Riverside residents, it marks the start of the holiday season, and many families return year after year to experience the joy and magic of the lights. For tourists, the event offers a unique and unforgettable way to experience Christmas in Southern California.

Riverside itself, though often overshadowed by nearby Los Angeles, has become a standout holiday destination due to the Mission Inn Festival of Lights. The city’s downtown area, with its historic buildings and festive decorations, adds to the charm of the festival, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for visitors. The event draws people not just from California but from across the country, contributing significantly to the local tourism industry.

Holiday Shopping and Dining in Riverside

In addition to the festival, Riverside’s downtown district offers plenty of holiday shopping opportunities. Local boutiques, art galleries, and specialty stores feature unique gifts and holiday items, making it a great spot for those looking to find something special for the season. Dining options in Riverside also add to the festive experience, with many restaurants offering holiday-themed menus and cozy atmospheres perfect for a warm meal after a day of sightseeing.

Visitors can also take a stroll through Riverside’s historic district, where they can admire the festive decorations and explore the charming streets lined with holiday lights. The combination of the festival, shopping, and dining makes Riverside a perfect destination for a holiday getaway.

The Future of the Mission Inn Festival of Lights

As the Mission Inn Festival of Lights continues to grow, it’s clear that this magical event will remain a cornerstone of Riverside’s holiday offerings for years to come. With each passing year, the festival becomes bigger and better, with new additions to the light displays, activities, and entertainment. Its reputation as one of America’s most magical holiday festivals is well-deserved, and it continues to draw increasing numbers of visitors who are eager to experience the wonder of Riverside during the holiday season.

For travelers seeking a unique and festive experience this holiday season, the Mission Inn Festival of Lights in Riverside, California, offers a magical destination filled with lights, joy, and holiday cheer. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for another year, the festival promises an unforgettable holiday experience for all.