If you’re looking for over-the-top holiday lights, packed crowds, and a very enthusiastic dose of Christmas spirit, the Festival of Lights at the Riverside Mission Inn delivers all of that and then some.

The event takes place annually in downtown Riverside and draws hundreds of thousands of visitors each season. Before you go, here are five important things to know so you can set expectations and plan accordingly.

1. What Is the Festival of Lights at the Riverside Mission Inn?

The Festival of Lights is a large-scale holiday lighting event centered around the historic Mission Inn Hotel & Spa and the surrounding downtown area.

The Mission Inn is decorated with extensive holiday lights and displays, and nearby streets often feature entertainment, food vendors, rides, and seasonal attractions. It’s visually impressive and unapologetically festive.

The event typically runs from late November through early January, with nightly light displays beginning after dark.

2. Where Is the Riverside Mission Inn Located?

The Mission Inn is located in downtown Riverside, roughly an hour east of Los Angeles without traffic (which is a bold assumption during the holidays).

The surrounding downtown area becomes part of the experience, so expect walking, detours, and crowds extending beyond the hotel itself.

3. When Is the Best Time to Visit the Festival of Lights?

This is the most important thing to understand: it is always crowded.

• Weekends are the busiest, especially Friday and Saturday nights.
• School breaks dramatically increase crowd size.
• Weeknights are slightly better, but still busy.
• The event begins after dark, so arriving early helps.

Crowds tend to thin slightly after Christmas, except around New Year’s. If you’re crowd-averse, manage expectations or choose a quieter weeknight.

4. Is There More to Do Than Just Look at the Lights?

Yes. Most downtown Riverside restaurants and shops stay open during the event, making it easy to turn the visit into a full evening.

You’ll typically find food vendors, pop-up attractions, and seasonal entertainment nearby. Restaurants and bars within walking distance can be a good escape from the densest crowds.

New additions and vendor lineups change year to year, so checking the official event site before going is recommended.

5. Is the Festival of Lights Worth It?

Yes. At least once.

It’s crowded, chaotic, and very busy, but it’s also one of the most immersive holiday experiences in Southern California. When December temperatures are warm everywhere else, the Festival of Lights actually feels like the holidays.

Go with patience, plan to walk, and don’t expect a quick in-and-out visit.

For current dates, schedules, parking information, and official updates, visit the City of Riverside’s Festival of Lights page here.