Fall colors paint UCR Botanic Gardens in warm hues, from golden tree canopies and coral-crowned barrel cacti to sun-dappled pathways winding through the diverse collections. (Courtesy of UCR Botanic Gardens)
November brings an extraordinary lineup of events that showcase everything we love about Riverside, from honoring our veterans and celebrating Native voices to supporting survivors and kicking off the holiday season in style. This month's rundown captures just a snapshot of the vibrant arts, culture, music, and community gatherings happening across our city, proving once again why Riverside pulses with such dynamic energy. Whether you're seeking punk rock nostalgia, handmade holiday crafts, historical cemetery tours, or free fitness classes, there's something for everyone in our community this month. For even more events and the latest updates, be sure to check our full community calendar, because in a city this alive, there's always more happening than we can fit in one list.
60 Miles East celebrates Riverside's DIY punk, ska, and hardcore music scenes from the late 1980s through early 2000s, when the city's distance from LA forced it to create its own sound and venues. Curated by childhood friends Zach Cordner and Ken Crawford, the exhibit captures a pre-internet era when bands promoted shows with photocopied flyers and fans discovered music through record stores and 'zines, documenting a fiercely independent community that wore its outsider status with pride.
An opening reception for the exhibit "On Peace & Friendship," commemorating the 100th Anniversary of the Frank A. Miller Testimonial Peace Tower and Friendship Bridge on Mount Rubidoux. Coordinated by the Friends of Mt. Rubidoux, Inc., and held at the Mission Inn Foundation/Museum. The exhibit will feature photos, artwork, and the history of the Peace Tower.
Riverside's annual Salute to Veterans Parade returns with a "Music Across the Eras" theme, featuring marching bands, military vehicles, classic cars, equestrian units, and airplane flyovers along the route from RCC through Downtown. The free event, running from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., honors local veterans and active service members while bringing a nostalgic small-town parade atmosphere to Market St., complete with an expo offering booths, food, and entertainment.
Penrose Records celebrates their anniversary Saturday and Sunday, November 8-9, with live performances, DJs, special merchandise including new Vicky Tafoya and Record Room shirts, plus a prize wheel and exclusive red translucent pressing of "Can I Call You Rose." The two-day event features special offers on new and used records alongside entertainment throughout the weekend.
3485 University Ave. (access entrance from Lemon St.)
NORA's 44th Annual Dinner & Auction Gala celebrates over 50 years of serving sexual assault, domestic violence, and child abuse survivors in Riverside County, highlighting success stories like Emily's journey from trauma to healing. The fundraising event seeks community support to sustain critical services for 2,000+ annual survivors as federal funding cuts threaten these vital programs.
Pá'čapa: A Mt. Rubidoux Story is a groundbreaking short documentary that presents Serrano, Cahuilla, and Tongva perspectives on Mt. Rubidoux, challenging the settler colonial monuments and narratives that dominate this sacred Native site in Riverside. Created by Rosy Aranda, Blossom Maciel, Daisy Ocampo and Lorene Sisquoc through community engagement with tribal cultural bearers, the film reclaims Indigenous voices for this iconic landmark that attracts up to 1,000 daily visitors.
Civil Rights Institute Inland Southern California, 3933 Mission Inn Ave.
Take a self-guided walk up the long trail to the summit, with three informational stops along the ascent to enhance your journey. If you're unfamiliar with the mountain trails, look for flagged guides between 11 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. to help orient you on the route.
Join a FREE 10-week fitness journey that combines posture work, mobility training, and dynamic movement to release tension and boost flexibility. This community-focused series offers participants a chance to connect with others while building strength and recharging their bodies.
The UCR Botanic Gardens hosts an early morning bird walk led by UCR faculty and staff experts, timed for optimal sightings with opportunities to spot at least 30 species in a single outing. Open to all skill levels from beginners to experienced birders, the tour offers novices a chance to develop their identification skills—just remember to wear appropriate walking footwear for the garden paths.
1 Botanic Gardens Dr.
$15.00 to $20.00—$15/member & $20/non-member
Register by Nov. 13
Arrive at 6:50 am for 7am tour
Parking is not included in event ticket prices. Paid parking available in the BG Visitor Lot, ParkMobile (zone 2477)
