The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa Prepares for Its 34th Annual Festival of Lights, Transforming Downtown Riverside Into a Holiday Wonderland

The beloved annual tradition will feature millions of dazzling lights, a holiday market, live
performances and infinite holiday magic for guests of all ages

RIVERSIDE, Calif., Sept. 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The iconic Mission Inn Hotel & Spa announced the return of its celebrated Festival of Lights, welcoming guests near and far to experience one of Southern California's most cherished holiday traditions. From Nov. 21, 2026, through Jan. 3, 2027, the historic landmark will once again be transformed into a winter wonderland illuminated by millions of twinkling lights, festive décor, and nightly snowfall.

For 150 years, The Mission Inn has brought together families, friends and visitors from across the region to celebrate the holidays in high style. As part of their milestone anniversary year, the property will ring in the holiday season once more with their annual Festival of Lights Switch-On Ceremony on Nov. 21 – a very merry and free event, inviting the public to revel in this year's massive lights display, plus a fireworks show and live performances.

"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. "We're thrilled to welcome new and returning guests back to experience the original magic and create everlasting memories that have made the holidays a beloved annual celebration at The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa."

Throughout the season, the resort's signature displays and festivities will make their return, including meet-and-greets with Santa and Mrs. Claus, the beloved lobby Gingerbread House and Holiday Market, featuring fresh hot cocoa and themed retail. An all-new Festival of Lights gift shop will open its doors, offering holiday merchandise year-round for guests to take home a token of holiday cheer whenever they visit.

For even more holiday cheer, The Mission Inn is partnering with Build-A-Bear Workshop^® for the first time, giving guests the opportunity to create personalized furry friends and lasting memories during select Festival of Lights pop-up events throughout the season.

Guests staying at The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa will have exclusive access to special offerings during the Festival, including resort credit, in-room Christmas trees and family story time with Santa's elves. Bookable VIP experiences for hotel guests and local visitors include Breakfast with Santa on the weekends, Memories with Santa Photo Studio on selected days and the Festival of Lights & Delights Tour on select evenings.

"The Festival of Lights is a shining example of how Riverside brings people together during the holiday season. For generations, The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa has served as the heart of this cherished tradition, welcoming residents and visitors alike to experience the magic, hospitality, and spirit that make our community so special," said Nicholas Adcock, President & CEO, Greater Riverside Chambers of Commerce. "We are proud to invite guests from across the region and beyond to celebrate the season in Riverside, support our local businesses, and create lasting memories in one of California's most iconic holiday destinations."

The Festival of Lights continues to serve as one of Southern California's favorite holiday destinations, attracting visitors seeking immersive seasonal experiences and cherished traditions. Whether guests are visiting for a weekend getaway, a family outing or a special holiday celebration, the Festival of Lights at The Mission Inn offers something for every age.

Count down to the Festival of Lights and visit MissionInn.com for event information, accommodations and updates.

About The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa
The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa is a National Historic Landmark in downtown Riverside, California, where history, hospitality, culture and celebration have come together for 150 years. Founded in 1876, the hotel is the largest Mission Revival-style building in the United States, and has welcomed U.S. presidents, celebrities, artists, travelers and neighbors who have made it part of their own stories across generations. Today, the hotel offers 238 luxuriously appointed guestrooms and suites, six restaurants and lounges, the award-winning Spa at The Mission Inn, a lushly landscaped outdoor pool and 25,000 square feet of event space. The property has warmly embraced its role as Southern California's Gathering Place, hosting weddings, celebrations, community gatherings and corporate events, as well as signature traditions such as the annual Festival of Lights. Now owned by the San Manuel Investment Authority and managed by Pyramid Global Hospitality, The Mission Inn enters a new chapter that honors its storied past, while creating fresh experiences for guests to gather, explore and savor year-round. For more information, visit missioninn.com.

SOURCE The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa