Riverside will observe its first official Raincross Day on Wednesday, Feb. 25, with an opening reception at the Mission Inn Foundation and Museum, 3598 Main St., from 6 to 8 p.m.
The evening doubles as the launch of a new exhibit, "Inside the Glenwood, Outside the Inn: 150 Years of the Glenwood Mission Inn and 50 Years of the Mission Inn Foundation and Museum," marking two milestones in Riverside's cultural history. The exhibit commemorates the 150th anniversary of the Glenwood's opening in November 1876 and the Foundation's 50th year of preservation and community engagement.
Ward 1 Councilmember Phillip Falcone is expected to formally proclaim Raincross Day during Tuesday's City Council meeting, with the holiday officially beginning Feb. 25.
Mindy Griffith, Executive Director of the Mission Inn Foundation and Museum, said the dual anniversaries reflect something larger than institutional history. "These anniversaries reflect a shared history of stewardship, resilience, and cultural significance that continues to shape Riverside," she told the Gazette.
Raincross Day itself is rooted in local history — it commemorates the date Frank Miller's design patent for the Raincross symbol was issued. Griffith said the Foundation hopes the day grows into something the whole city can claim. "We hope to bring a tradition of celebrating Riverside's history, development and communities. Our goal is to make this an annual event," she said.
Associate Curator Arman James Agahi will be on hand at Wednesday's reception to discuss the new exhibit, which he told the Gazette explores how the Mission Inn's spaces have been understood — and contested — over time. The exhibit uses art and architecture to examine questions of community, identity and place as they relate to the Inn, the Foundation and Riverside at large.
The reception will feature light food and drinks. New and renewing members who sign up on Raincross Day will receive a complimentary souvenir bell while supplies last.
The celebration extends beyond the museum. Raincross Tattoo, 4027 Market St., is hosting its first annual Raincross Day Car Show on Saturday, Feb. 28, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. in its parking lot. The event includes a tattoo flash sale with designs starting at $60 and additional community festivities throughout the day.
For more information about the Raincross Tattoo car show, contact Jacob Gamble at 951-203-2293.
