Thousands of attendees filled the streets of downtown Riverside, waiting in anticipation for the iconic switch-on ceremony which turns on millions of Christmas lights at the same time, along with a spectacular fireworks display. The event features lights and holiday-themed decorations, as well as food vendors, live entertainment and carnival attractions. Many local shops extended their hours to continue offering visitors a shopping experience. Despite the drizzle of rain, event goers were still able to celebrate the holiday season by participating in activities like skating in the ice rink or taking pictures in one of the many photo ops.

The Mission Inn is covered in more than 10 million Christmas lights, holiday animatronics and even a merry-go-round. Hot chocolate, tamales and funnel cakes are sold throughout the downtown area, perfect for the chilly weather. Local artisans also take advantage of the increased crowds in Downtown by providing artwork on demand, music, and many other offerings.

The Festival of Lights began in 1992 as an initiative by the Mission Inn Hotel & Spa to celebrate the holidays and draw more visitors to the city. What started as a modest lighting display has evolved into one of Southern California's most beloved holiday traditions. Each year, the Mission Inn is adorned with over five million lights, intricate decorations, and animated figures, transforming it into a dazzling winter wonderland. The event has since expanded to include a full street fair with live entertainment, food vendors, and carnival rides. The "switch-on" ceremony, where the lights are turned on all at once, is the festival's main draw, attracting thousands of attendees from across the region.

Not all is merry and bright, however, as Downtown Riverside becomes the focal point of holiday cheer, the city's homeless population finds itself thrust into the spotlight. Advocates for the unhoused point out that the influx of visitors and increased police presence during the festival can displace vulnerable individuals who rely on public spaces for shelter. Local organizations such as Path of Life Ministries have worked tirelessly to provide support and temporary housing during the festival season. However, the visibility of homelessness during such a high-profile event often leads to calls for stricter enforcement, raising ethical concerns about how the city balances compassion and commerce.

While the festival generates significant revenue for the city and draws attention to flagship attractions like the Mission Inn, some small business owners feel left out of the celebration. Many report that the temporary street closures, overcrowding, and competition from event-specific vendors hurt their bottom line during what should be the busiest shopping season of the year. There are also concerns about the increased cost of security, and parking, without any real return coming to their businesses.

Despite these concerns, the Festival of Lights remains a cornerstone of Riverside's cultural identity, and the spirit of the festival persists, as families and friends gather under the glow of millions of lights to celebrate the season. For many, the magic of the Festival of Lights continues to shine brightly, even as Riverside grapples with the realities of its growing pains.

Amid the challenges, the Festival of Lights also provides opportunities for local artisans to showcase their talents to larger audiences. Many independent artists and performers take advantage of the increased foot traffic downtown by setting up tables to sell handmade crafts, offer art-on-demand services, and perform live music. From artists sketching portraits in real time to musicians filling the air with festive tunes, these creatives bring a personal touch to the event.

The Festival of Lights continues to shine as a cherished tradition that brings people together and celebrates the unique spirit of Riverside. From the breathtaking light displays to the artistry of local vendors and performers, the event offers something for everyone. As the city works to address concerns and create a more inclusive experience, there’s hope that the festival can evolve into an even brighter beacon of community pride and holiday joy. For now, the glow of millions of lights and the laughter of families remind us of the power of shared moments and the magic of the season.

Angie Medina was a contributing reporter for this story. See all of our photos on our Flickr page.