Wednesday Gazette: February 18, 2026
Hello Riverside, and Happy Wednesday! Three-day weekends are a gift, but they have a way of leaving the whole week feeling a little scrambled. If you're not quite sure what day it is or what's on your plate, you're in good company. A couple of things that help: take a few minutes to look at your week ahead so nothing sneaks up on you, and be patient with yourself as you find your footing. You've got this.
In the meantime, we've got you covered with everything happening around Riverside. Check out our community calendar and if you have a story you'd like to share, send it our way at newsroom@raincrossgazette.com.
See you tomorrow!
Advertisement (Become an advertiser)
COMMUNITY
Photo Essay: Riverside Celebrates 46th Annual Black History Month with Parade and Expo
The annual parade, founded by two high school students in 1980, brought together community leaders, performers, and families for a day of celebration on February 14.
A strong sense of unity and culture filled the streets at the 46th Annual Riverside Black History Parade and Expo on February 14. From Polytechnic High School band students marching with their instruments alongside their Color Guard and cheerleading team, to the Charlie Sampson Rodeo's cowboys and cowgirls riding down Main Street and showcasing tricks to the delight of the audience — the energy was unmistakable. Families, children, and even pets brought the event together as the public enjoyed the parade while sampling Louisiana-style food and banana pudding. Our photo essay takes you through this celebratory community moment, now 46 years in the making.
Read and share the full photo essay...
Advertisement (Become an advertiser)
EVENTS
Mayor's Ball Returns to Newly State-Designated Downtown Arts District
This year's Rock of the Ages celebration comes just months after downtown Riverside earned state recognition as a California Cultural District.
Riverside's arts community celebrates downtown's new California Cultural District designation at the annual Mayor's Ball on March 21.
Why it matters: If you care about Riverside's arts scene, this is the year's biggest celebration — and your votes determine the winners. Early Bird tickets expire Friday.
Driving the news: The California Arts Council named Riverside's Arts and Culture District one of only 10 new state Cultural Districts in December, chosen from 80+ applicants statewide.
- The designation runs through 2030 and brings state funding, marketing resources, and technical assistance to the downtown corridor.
What's happening: The "Rock of the Ages"-themed event takes place at The Box at the Fox Entertainment Plaza, 3635 Market St. Mayor Lock Dawson will announce winners live.
- Award categories include Public Artwork, Music, Dance, Literary Arts, Theatre, and Arts Facilities — all determined by public vote.
What's next: Voting closes March 9. Early Bird tickets are $80 through Feb. 21, then jump to $100. Must be 18+.
Read and share the full story...
Advertisement (Become an advertiser)
What's Happening in Riverside
Today
- Riverside East Rotary Club at Civil Rights Institute of Inland Southern
- Stretch & Dance Class at Janet Goeske Senior Center
- Promise Program - Information Session at Riverside City College
- Reading Assistance Program at My Learning Studio
- Ash Wednesday Service at First Congregational Church of Riverside
- Back to Campus Resource Fair at Riverside City College
- Safety, Wellness, and Youth Committee at Riverside City Hall
- Cal Baptist Lancers Women's Basketball vs. Utah Valley Wolverines at Dale E. and Sarah Ann Fowler Events Center
- History on the Rocks - Round Two! Presented by The Mission Inn Foundation at Mission Inn Foundation ($60)
- Riverside Mission Belles at Victoria Presbyterian Church
- Riverside Open Mic Music Series at Back to the Grind
Tomorrow
- Economic Development Committee at Riverside City Hall
- Empowered Leadership: Cultivating Influence and Impact at Work Well ($165)
- Men's Basketball vs Cal State Bakersfield at SRC Arena
- History on the Rocks! Presented by The Mission Inn Foundation at Mission Inn Foundation ($60)
- Vitamin String Quartet:The Music Of Billie Eilish, Bridgerton & Beyond at Fox Performing Arts Center
Save the Date
- February 21: 2026 Riverside Dickens Festival at White Park ($5- $20)
- February 21: Battle of the Bands Packinghouse Feb 21st 2026 at Packinghouse Brewing Co
- February 21: Woodcrest Market Collective at Woodcrest Public Library
- February 23: Sip with a Scientist at Bar Ni Modo
- March 9: REEF's Best Event Ever! Take 9! at Fox Performing Arts Center ($10- $75)
- March 14: Riverside Sunrise Rotary 22nd Annual Black Tie Bingo at Riverside Convention Center ($130- $250)
- March 19: Empowered Leadership: Cultivating Influence and Impact at Work Well ($165)
🗓️ See More Events 📝 Submit Your Event
📸 Submit a photo to be featured in our newsletters and social media accounts.
🏆 Nominate a remarkable Riversider as Neighbor of the Week.
