Mission Inn Festival of Lights: A Holiday Tradition

The holiday season in Riverside, California, is marked by a tradition that captures the magic of Christmas through millions of twinkling lights, festive displays, and joyful activities: The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa’s Festival of Lights. Celebrating its 32nd year in 2024, this enchanting event, held in the heart of Riverside’s Arts and Culture District, has become one of the most popular holiday festivals in the United States. Here’s everything you need to know about this year’s spectacular Festival of Lights and how it all began.

The Festival of Lights was founded in 1992 by Mission Inn owners Kelly and Duane Roberts. Wanting to share the warmth and joy of the holiday season with the community, the Roberts envisioned a festival that would become a holiday staple and bring cheer to residents and visitors alike. Their vision was to create an inclusive, magical experience for all ages, and today, it’s clear that they’ve succeeded far beyond their initial expectations.

What started as a simple gift to Riverside has grown into a nationally recognized holiday celebration, drawing over 500,000 visitors each year. Many visitors travel from across the country to witness the hotel’s breathtaking light displays and decorations. It’s easy to see why this event has become so beloved and why it holds a special place in the hearts of so many.

The 32nd Annual Festival of Lights will officially kick off with the Switch-on Ceremony on November 23, 2024, and the festivities will continue through December 31, 2024. Visitors should note that the festival will be closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day, providing a well-deserved break for staff before reopening for the duration of the holiday season.

The festival offers free admission, making it accessible for families and individuals of all backgrounds to enjoy the sights, sounds, and tastes of the season.

The Festival of Lights is more than just a light show; it’s an immersive experience that combines artistic design, holiday spirit, and cultural celebration. Here’s a look at some of the unique elements that make this festival unforgettable:

Millions of Colorful Lights: Each year, millions of LED bulbs are carefully placed around the historic Mission Inn Hotel & Spa, turning it into a radiant, holiday-themed wonderland. The lights cover nearly every inch of the building’s grand facade and extend into surrounding streets, creating a glowing oasis in Riverside’s Arts and Culture District.

Holiday Decor & Animatronic Figures: Beyond the lights, the hotel and nearby streets are adorned with larger-than-life holiday decorations, including whimsical animatronic figures, snowmen, and over-sized nutcrackers. Each display adds a touch of magic to the festival, providing an awe-inspiring scene perfect for family photos and creating lasting memories.

Nostalgic Atmosphere: The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa itself is a masterpiece of Mission Revival architecture and is recognized as the largest building of its kind in the United States. Its historical charm lends a classic holiday feel that beautifully complements the festival’s modern decor. Walking through the decorated streets and the hotel’s open areas feels like stepping into a holiday storybook.

Community and Family-Friendly Events: From carolers singing classic holiday tunes to festive food vendors serving up seasonal treats, the Festival of Lights has something for everyone. Visitors can enjoy traditional and contemporary food options from various vendors and local restaurants. The event’s family-friendly nature makes it perfect for holiday outings with children, who will enjoy both the lively activities and mesmerizing displays.

As one of the country’s largest holiday light displays, the Festival of Lights has become a significant draw for both locals and tourists. With over half a million people attending each year, it’s clear that the event has broad appeal that spans generations and geographic boundaries. Families return year after year to make new memories, while newcomers marvel at the scale and creativity of the festival. It’s this unique blend of local tradition and wide-reaching allure that makes the Festival of Lights a cornerstone of Riverside’s holiday season.

If you’re planning to attend the 2024 Festival of Lights, here are a few tips to enhance your experience:

Visit Early in the Season: With the popularity of the festival, crowds tend to grow closer to Christmas. Visiting in late November or early December may give you a more relaxed experience.

Arrive Early for the Switch-on Ceremony: The Switch-on Ceremony on November 23 marks the official start of the festival. Arriving early will help you secure a great viewing spot and be part of the excitement as the lights illuminate the Mission Inn for the first time this season.

Check for Parking: Downtown Riverside can get busy, especially on weekends. Look for designated festival parking areas or consider using public transportation if available to avoid the hassle.

Bring a Camera: The decorations and light displays make for fantastic photo opportunities, so be sure to capture the magic.

The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa’s Festival of Lights is more than just an event; it’s a cherished tradition that brings people together in celebration of the season. From the vision of the Roberts family to its current status as a nationally renowned festival, the Festival of Lights continues to grow, drawing people from all walks of life to enjoy the holiday magic. This year, Riverside’s Arts and Culture District will once again sparkle with lights, laughter, and holiday cheer, inviting everyone to become part of a beloved legacy.

Whether you’re a longtime fan or planning your first visit, the Festival of Lights is sure to warm your heart and leave you filled with holiday spirit. So gather your loved ones, head to Riverside, and experience the wonder that awaits at this year’s Festival of Lights!