Whether you're new to Riverside or a longtime resident, there's always something happening here. From the Festival of Lights drawing half a million visitors to neighborhood block parties that bring us together, our city knows how to celebrate.
We've rounded up more than 50 annual events spanning cultural festivals, holiday celebrations, arts showcases, athletic competitions and family fun throughout 2026. While organizers are still finalizing details for many 2026 dates, we wanted to give you a head start on planning your year. Pencil these into your calendar now, and we'll keep updating our community calendar as more information becomes available.
January: New Beginnings and Cultural Celebrations
Citrus Heritage Run- Saturday, January 10, 2026 California Citrus State
A race through historic orange groves featuring half marathon, 10K, 5K, and kids' mile distances. Post-race festivities include fresh-squeezed orange juice and live music. The 2025 edition sold out—register early. Ticketed.
MLK Walk-a-Thon- Monday, January 19, 2026 (Martin Luther King Jr. Day)
The annual commemorative walk honors Dr. King's legacy with a community procession, awards ceremony, and entertainment. Proceeds support the Civil Rights Institute of Inland Southern California.
Riverside Lunar Festival- Jan. 24-25, 2026 (Saturday-Sunday)
The annual celebration of Asian American culture transforms downtown with lion and dragon dancers, Taiko drummers, K-Pop performances, JDM car exhibits, and dozens of food vendors. Saturday-Sunday, 11 a.m.–8 p.m. (Sunday closes at 7 p.m.). Free.
Riverside Home and Garden Show- Jan. 24-25, 2026
Home improvement expo featuring more than 600 exhibitors showcasing remodeling, landscaping, interior design and outdoor living. Seminars and demonstrations throughout. Free admission.
February: Victorian Charm and Black History
Black History Expo and Parade- First Saturday of February
One of Southern California's oldest and largest Black History Month celebrations. Features floats, marching bands, dancers, and community organizations on Magnolia Avenue, followed by live entertainment, food trucks, and vendors. Free.
Riverside Dickens Festival- Feb. 21-22, 2026 (Saturday-Sunday)
The annual Victorian festival celebrates Charles Dickens with costumed attendees, theatrical performances, a London Marketplace, and the popular "Evening in a Victorian Pub" (21-plus). 2026 theme: "Oliver Twist—A Tale of Justice and Belonging." Adults $20, couples $35. Ticketed.
March: Spring Awakens
First Sundays at Museum of Riverside locations return (monthly October–May) offering free family activities celebrating Indigenous and local cultures.
April: Citrus Heritage and Tamale Traditions
Citrus Festival- First Saturday in April (April 4, 2026)
The annual celebration of Riverside's citrus legacy features rare citrus tastings, cooking demonstrations, Ballet Folklorico performances, food trucks, craft vendors, and lawn games for kids—all within the park's historic groves. Free.
Southern California Air Show- Mid-April (typically April 11-12, 2026) March Air Reserve Base
Aerobatic performances, military demonstration teams, and vintage aircraft displays draw aviation enthusiasts from across the region. Free.
Riverside Community Flower Show and Garden Tour- Late April (April 25-26, 2026)
Riverside's longest-running community event—now in its 78th year—showcases displays from the Raincross Rose Society, Orchid Society, Iris Society, and Master Gardeners. Self-guided tour of six private gardens ($10). Children under 16 free with adult.
Riverside Tamale Festival- Late April (typically April 25, 2026)
The 13th annual celebration of family, food, and Hispanic culture brings tamale vendors, Lucha Libre wrestling, live music, folklorico dancers, and kids' activities. Proceeds support restoration of the historic Trujillo Adobe. General admission $20, children under 12 free. Ticketed.
Riverside Insect Fair- Late April Main Library
Features more than 50 vendors, cockroach races, interactive exhibits and UC Riverside entomology students sharing their passion for bugs. Free.
May: Cars, Pride, and Anime Culture
Show and Go Car Show- First Saturday of May (May 2, 2026)
Since 1997, more than 1,000 classic cars—hot rods, lowriders, muscle cars—cruise through downtown streets. Pancake breakfast at 7 a.m., displays through 4 p.m. Benefits Stater Bros. Charities and local nonprofits. Free for spectators.
Inland Empire Pride Festival- Mid-May (typically second Saturday)
The largest LGBTQ-plus Pride celebration in the western Inland Empire features drag performances, live music (including Mariachi Arcoiris), a youth zone, beer garden and more than 100 vendors. Free.
The Great American Cleanup- May (typically second Saturday) Citywide
Part of a national initiative ahead of America's 250th anniversary, this volunteer cleanup effort beautifies neighborhoods across Riverside, followed by lunch and entertainment for participants. Free.
Old Riverside Foundation Vintage Home Tour
Five showcase homes spanning Victorian to Mid-century Modern architecture open their doors for self-guided tours. Ticketed.
UCR Pow Wow- Memorial Day Weekend Riverside Sports Complex
UC Riverside's 40th annual celebration of Indigenous cultures features traditional dance competitions, drums, food vendors, and artisan crafts. Open to the public. Free.
West Coast Thunder Memorial Day Ride- Monday, May 25, 2026 Starts at Riverside Harley-Davidson, passes Riverside National Cemetery
A roaring tribute to fallen service members, this motorcycle procession concludes with a concert at Riverside Municipal Auditorium. Free to participate.
Anime Riverside- May 30-31, 2026
The 5th annual anime convention brings cosplay contests, voice actor guests, vendor marketplace, artist alley, gaming tournaments, and panels. Kids 12 and under free with adult ticket. Ticketed.
June: Freedom Celebrations
Juneteenth Celebration- Friday, June 19
The 6th annual commemoration of the end of slavery features historical reenactments, live music, spoken word performances, African marketplace vendors, and soul food. Hosted by The B.L.A.C.K. Collective and Iota Phi Theta. Free.
July: Fireworks and Global Flavors
Fourth of July Spectacular- Saturday, July 4, 2026 Fireworks launched from Mt. Rubidoux; viewing at Ryan Bonaminio Park and La Sierra Park
A tradition since 1964, dual fireworks displays light up the sky at 9 p.m. Evergreen Cemetery hosts "Front Row Fireworks" fundraiser ($10 adults, $5 children).
Concerts in the Park- Wednesdays in July, 6-9 p.m. Fairmount Park
Free outdoor concerts featuring diverse musical styles. Bring blankets and picnic baskets for family-friendly summer evenings. Free.
IE International Food and Music Festival- Late July (typically last weekend) Mission Inn Avenue, Downtown (spanning 4 blocks)
The Inland Empire's largest celebration of global cuisine draws more than 100,000 attendees with more than 75 food vendors, carnival attractions, more than 50 craft vendors and headline concerts. Free admission.
August: Neighbors and Chalk Art
National Night Out- First Tuesday of August (August 4, 2026) Neighborhoods citywide
Residents host block parties and cookouts to strengthen police-community partnerships and neighborhood connections. Contact City of Riverside to participate.
Chalk It Up Riverside- Third Tuesday of August Community centers and libraries citywide
Sidewalk chalk art event where participants create positive messages across Riverside neighborhoods. Chalk provided at all locations. Free.
September: Latin Rhythms and Deaf Culture
DeaFestival- Third Saturday of September (September 19, 2026)
The annual celebration of Deaf culture features ASL performances, Deaf-owned business vendors, food, and family activities during International Week of the Deaf. Free.
Mucho Gusto Festival- Third Saturday of September (September 19, 2026)
This "celebration of music without borders" showcases tropical Afro-Latin sounds—cumbia, psychedelic rock, fusion—alongside more than 40 art vendors, more than 20 art installations and a Hangar 24 beer garden. Children 12 and under free. Ticketed.
Moon Festival at Heritage House- September or early October Heritage House
An evening celebrating Chinese American contributions to Riverside's citrus industry with lion dance, calligraphy, mah-jongg, storytelling, and mooncakes. Free.
October: Arts, Athletics, and All Hallows
Riverside Book Festival- Early October
Partnership between Inlandia Institute and Riverside Public Library featuring more than 50 authors, panels, bilingual storytelling, children's activities and live music. California Poet Laureate keynote. Free.
Mission Inn Run- Mid-October (October 18, 2026)
The annual signature race winds through parks, landmarks, and historic neighborhoods. Half marathon, 10K, 5K, and Kids Fun Run options. Benefits Mission Inn Foundation and Museum. Ticketed registration.
Pink on Parade- Third Saturday of October (October 17, 2026)
The annual breast cancer awareness event features a mountain walk, Family Fun Walk, classic car show, dove release, and vendor village. All proceeds support The Pink Ribbon Place resource center. Registration: Adults $30, youth $10, children 10 and under free.
ARToberfest- Mid-October
This 21-and-older evening combines art with Oktoberfest vibes—local craft beers from more than seven breweries, German-inspired food, vintage art sale, silent auction and live brass music. Benefits RAM education programs. Ticketed (approximately $25 and up).
Doors Open Riverside- Late October, Historic sites citywide
The annual event opens doors to more than 14 usually-private historic buildings including Harada House, Peter J. Weber House and Trujillo Adobe. Won 2019 Governor's Historic Preservation Award. Free.
Ghost Walk Riverside- Weekend before Halloween
For years, California Riverside Ballet has produced this community festival featuring theatrical walking tours with Edgar Allan Poe performances, Thriller flash mob, kids' carnival, and beer garden. Park admission $10, tour add-on $20. Ticketed.
Barktoberfest- October White Park, Downtown Riverside
Craft beer tasting festival benefiting pets in need at Mary S. Roberts Pet Adoption Center. Features local breweries, food vendors and live music. 21 and older only. Ticketed ($50-$70).
Citrus Classic Bike Ride- October, Starts at Riverside Plaza
Cycling event drawing regional participants. Registration $15-$80.
November: Honoring Ancestors and Heroes
Día de los Muertos Festival- November 1-2, 2026 (Sunday-Monday)
One of California's largest Day of the Dead celebrations spans six to seven blocks with more than 80 community-built altars, two stages of live music, folklorico and Aztec dancers, Lucha Libre wrestling, lowrider displays and La Catrina pageant. Draws more than 75,000 visitors. Now in its 23rd year. Free.
Salute to Veterans Parade and Expo- Saturday before Veterans Day (November 7, 2026) Parade: Riverside City College to Historic Courthouse
The annual tribute features more than 2,500 marchers, military flyovers, equestrian units, marching bands and 130 organizations. Post-parade expo offers veteran services, food trucks and live music. Complimentary veteran lunch at Riverside Elks Lodge. Free.
Festival of Lights Switch-On Ceremony- Saturday before Thanksgiving (November 21, 2026)
The annual switch-on ceremony draws up to 75,000 spectators for fireworks and the illumination of more than 10 million lights. USA Today's "Best Public Lights Display" in America. Festival runs through Jan. 6, 2027, with ice skating, carnival rides, live entertainment at Ben Franklin Stage and Santa photos. Hours: 5-11 p.m. daily (closed Thanksgiving and Christmas). Free admission; activity fees apply.
Turkey Trot 5K- Thanksgiving morning (November 26, 2026), 8 a.m. Condron Coffee, 3696 Sunnyside Drive
Benefits Olive Crest nonprofit. Work up an appetite before the feast.
December: Holiday Magic Across the City
Alternative Gift Fair First Saturday of December (December 5, 2026), 11 a.m.-3 p.m. First United Methodist Church, 4845 Brockton Ave.
The annual fair features handcrafted goods from nonprofits including Ten Thousand Villages, Inlandia Institute and Heifer International. Free soup, bread and live music. All proceeds benefit participating organizations. Free admission.
A CBU Christmas- First weekend of December (December 5-6, 2026) Dale E. and Sarah Ann Fowler Events Center, California Baptist University
Billed as one of the largest Christmas productions on the West Coast, this ninth annual spectacular features more than 500 students, professional guest musicians, university choirs and full orchestra in the 5,050-seat arena. Multiple performances sell out quickly. Adults approximately $25, children 6 and under free. Ticketed.
La Sierra University Candlelight Concert- First weekend of December (December 4-5, 2026) La Sierra University Church, 4937 Sierra Vista Ave.
Riverside's longest-running annual event features the La Sierra Symphony Orchestra, choirs, brass ensembles, Handel's "Messiah" excerpts and carol sing-along. General admission free; reserved priority seating $20.
Goeske Holiday Festival- First Saturday of December Janet Goeske Center, 5257 Sierra St.
Family-friendly holiday kickoff with food, handmade crafts and activities. Free.
Las Posadas- Early December Procession from The Cheech to Riverside Art Museum
Traditional Mexican holiday procession reenacting Mary and Joseph's search for shelter, with activities continuing at RAM.
Chanukah Festival- During Hanukkah (December 25, 2026 – January 2, 2027) Historic Courthouse, Downtown Riverside
The annual celebration features the Inland Empire's largest menorah lighting, traditional food, fire performances, live music, dancing and children's activities. Attended by Riverside County officials. Free.
Heritage House Victorian Christmas- Mid-December Heritage House, near CBU campus
Journey back to Victorian-era elegance with Father Christmas, festive decorations, musical entertainment and holiday treats. Free.
The Nutcracker by Inland Pacific Ballet- Mid-December (typically December 19-20, 2026) Fox Performing Arts Center
Annual holiday classic performed by Inland Pacific Ballet in the historic 1,600-seat Fox Theater. Multiple performances. Ticketed ($92-$118 and up).
Wreaths Across America- December 12, 2026 Evergreen Memorial Historic Cemetery
National ceremony honoring veterans with wreath-laying.
Reindeer Run- Late December Riverside
Holiday-themed running event with 5K, 10K, 15K, and half marathon distances. Ticketed.
Year-Round Monthly Events
Riverside ArtsWalk- First Thursday of every month, 6-9 p.m. Downtown Riverside (Main Street and surrounding areas)
Since 2002, this free monthly celebration has opened more than 22 galleries and museums with artisan vendors, live performances and special programming. Special "Merry ArtsWalk" editions during Festival of Lights. Free.
First Sundays at Museum of Riverside- First Sunday monthly (October–May), 1-4 p.m. Various Museum of Riverside locations
Free family activities featuring Indigenous culture-bearers, nature activities and hands-on crafts. Free.
Riverside Light Parade- Last Saturday of every month Ryan Bonaminio Park area
Community bike ride featuring more than 600 participants on decorated, light-adorned bicycles parading through downtown. Family-friendly. Free to participate.
Quick Reference: 2026 Dates at a Glance
January Citrus Heritage Run (10), MLK Walk-a-Thon (19), Lunar Festival (24-25), Home Show (24-25)
February Black History Parade (early), Dickens Festival (21-22)
April Citrus Festival (4), Air Show (11-12), Flower Show (25-26), Tamale Festival (25)
May Show and Go Car Show (2), Pride Festival, Anime Riverside (30-31)
June Juneteenth (19)
July Fourth of July Fireworks, Food and Music Festival (late July)
September DeaFestival (19), Mucho Gusto Festival (19)
October Mission Inn Run (18), Pink on Parade (17), ARToberfest (17), Ghost Walk (24-25)
November Día de los Muertos (1-2), Veterans Parade (7), Festival of Lights Switch-On (21)
December CBU Christmas (5-6), La Sierra Candlelight Concert (4-5), Chanukah Festival, The Nutcracker
Most city-organized events are free and family-friendly, while ticketed festivals like Dickens, ARToberfest and A CBU Christmas offer premium experiences. Residents should note that popular events—particularly the Citrus Heritage Run and CBU Christmas—sell out early, so advance registration is recommended.
For the most current details and official announcements, visit raincrossgazette.com/calendar, follow event organizers on social media, or check the Raincross Gazette's event coverage throughout the year.
