A festive garden walkway lit up with colorful string lights and oversized nutcracker soldiers, with trees wrapped in red, gold, and white glow.

34th Annual Festival of Lights

November 21, 2026 - January 3, 2027

Celebrate the start of the Festival of Lights with the Opening Ceremony with fireworks, live entertainment, a visit from Santa, and an epic start to the Holiday Season!

For more than three decades, the Festival of Lights has transformed The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa into one of Southern California’s most celebrated holiday destinations. Named one of the “Best Public Lights Displays” by USA Today, this beloved Riverside tradition continues to enchant guests and visitors from across the region and beyond.
Each year from late November through early January, The Mission Inn comes alive with more than 10 million sparkling lights, dazzling decorations, festive displays, and holiday experiences for all ages.
Guests can enjoy the excitement of the annual grand switch-on ceremony, live entertainment, seasonal treats, holiday shopping, family-friendly activities, and memorable photo opportunities with Santa Claus.

A festive courtyard at night, packed with warm holiday lights, colorful flags, sparkling trees, and a statue display with people dining under the glow.

Festival of Lights Dining

Enjoy festive menus, elegant surroundings, and the glow of millions of lights while creating memories around the table with family and friends. From special holiday celebrations to seasonal culinary offerings, dining at The Mission Inn is an essential part of the Festival of Lights experience. Book your holiday brunches, breakfast with Santa, or a dazzling dinner at any of our restaurants.

A festive mall entrance with a “Santas Toy Shop” sign, towering Christmas trees, twinkling lights, and nutcracker figures by the doorway.

Holiday Experiences

The magic of Festival of Lights extends throughout the property with activities designed for guests of all ages. Wander through beautifully illuminated courtyards, enjoy live music and entertainment, visit with Santa, discover unique gifts, and embrace the traditions that make this season so special.

A brunch table spread with waffles and eggs, fruit and pastries, and glasses of juice and champagne by a window.

Breakfast with Santa

November 22 - Dec 20, 2026 | 8:00am-1:00am

Adults: $45 plus gratuity & tax• Children: (Ages 3-11) $20 plus gratuity & tax

Children under 3 complimentary

Prepayment required with 72-hour cancellation policy
Reserve
Roasted turkey and seasonal sides on a fall table with candles, pumpkins, cranberries, and fresh herbs.

Thanksgiving Day Brunch

November 26, 2026 | 10:00am-7:00pm

Adults: $95 plus gratuity & tax• Children: (Ages 3-11) $35 plus gratuity & tax

Children under 3 complimentary

Prepayment required with 72-hour cancellation policy
Reserve
Santa in a red suit reads a book while holding his hands near his face, surrounded by gifts and blue lights in the background.

Merry Memories Santa Photos

November 22 - December 23, 2026

Saturday - Sunday | 12:00p - 8:00p 

Monday - Friday | 4:00p - 8:00p 

Terms and Conditions
Roasted turkey and a festive table setting with red candles, berries, and warm bokeh lights.

Christmas Brunch

December 25, 2026 | 10:00am-7:00pm

Adults: $110 plus gratuity & tax• Children: (Ages 3-11) $35 plus gratuity & tax

Children under 3 complimentary

Prepayment required with 72-hour cancellation policy
Reserve
Rotunda at the Mission inn, bright blue-and-white lights sparkle above ornate balconies and arches.

Lights & Delights Tour

Starting November 23, 2026 | 5PM, 7PM, 9PM

Adults: $65 plus tax• Children: (Ages 6-12) $35 plus tax

Reserve

Create Your Own Mission Inn Tradition

Every season offers a new way to experience the history, hospitality, and charm of The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa. From beloved holiday celebrations to peaceful seasonal escapes, discover the moments that make every visit unforgettable.

Plan Your Visit
 

A festive garden walkway lit with red, white, and gold lights, lined by towering nutcracker statues and palm trees in holiday display lights. A lit-up historic church façade at night, wrapped in warm string lights, with potted plants and poinsettias lining the entrance. A grand courtyard/atrium is covered with hanging warm-white string lights, forming a glowing tunnel of decorations at night. Festive courtyard at night, packed with Christmas string lights, flags, glowing decorations, and a sleigh-and-reindeer display. A grand indoor courtyard with curved balconies and arches around a glowing circular skylight, lit in blue. Inside a holiday-decorated hall with glowing chandeliers, tall lit Christmas trees, and festive wreaths and garlands.

Stay connected for the latest Festival of Lights announcements!