Allow yourself to be swept away by more than 3.6 million+ brilliant lights transforming Riverside's historic hotel into pure magic. The annual festival begins the day after Thanksgiving, on Friday, November 25th with a celebratory lighting ceremony featuring a full fireworks display, and continues through Sunday, January 8th.  With live entertainment, seasonal touches throughout, including horse-drawn carriage rides, freshly fallen snow and special appearances by Santa Claus, Festival of Lights is a beloved Southern California tradition not to be missed.

Both local residents and out of town travelers can experience the spectacular Southern California holiday tradition. In addition to the external light display, throughout the season The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa features an elaborately decorated Christmas tree, appearances by Santa Claus and Dickensian Carolers singing cheerful holiday tunes, authentic horse-drawn carriages and hundreds of characters dressed in 17th Century costumes to entertain crowds and evoke the spirit of the season.

Day trip visitors can also extend their Festival of Lights tour by dining at Inland Southern California’s only AAA Four-Diamond restaurant, Duane’s Prime Steaks & Seafood Restaurant, sipping a glass at wine bar 54° at Duane’s, sneaking in some holiday shopping at the incredibly well-curated Kelly’s Boutique, or taking in High Tea on the Spanish Patio. (from 2p – 4p daily)