Riverside – September 30, 2026 -- The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa will switch on its annual Festival of Lights on Nov. 21, 2026, kicking off a holiday season that runs through Jan. 3, 2027.
The free Switch-On Ceremony opens the season on Nov. 21
The public event includes a massive lights display, a fireworks show and live performances, marking the resort's 150th anniversary year in downtown Riverside, California.
Build-A-Bear Workshop joins the festival for the first time
Select pop-up events throughout the season will let guests create personalized stuffed animals, a new addition to the resort's holiday lineup.
Returning traditions include Santa meet-and-greets and a Holiday Market
Guests can visit the lobby Gingerbread House, browse the Holiday Market for hot cocoa and themed retail, and shop a newly opened Festival of Lights gift shop selling year-round merchandise.
Hotel guests get exclusive perks like in-room Christmas trees
Overnight visitors have access to resort credit, in-room trees and elf-led story time, while bookable VIP experiences include Breakfast with Santa on weekends, a Memories with Santa photo studio and an evening Festival of Lights & Delights tour.
"Each year, the Festival of Lights creates a sense of wonder and joy that brings our community together during the holiday season," said Alfredo Anguiano, General Manager at The Mission Inn.
Nicholas Adcock, President & CEO of the Greater Riverside Chambers of Commerce, said the festival supports local businesses and draws visitors from across the region to one of California's iconic holiday destinations.