Inland Empire December Spotlight
December in the Inland Empire is full of lights, parades, and community events. Families across the region look forward to these winter traditions every year. The IE offers a wide mix of celebrations, and each city brings its own style. Here are some of the top events happening this season, along with links so you can learn more and add them to your calendar.
Mission Inn Festival of Lights – Riverside
Location: Mission Inn Hotel & Spa and Downtown Riverside
Dates: November 22, 2025 through January 6, 2026
Switch On Ceremony: Saturday, November 22, 2025, 4:30 pm to 8:00 pm
Event page: Mission Inn Festival of Lights
Add to calendar: 33rd Festival of Lights Switch On Ceremony
The Mission Inn Festival of Lights is one of the biggest holiday events in Southern California. The hotel and downtown area glow with millions of lights. Visitors can walk through light displays, enjoy food vendors, watch live entertainment, and ride family friendly attractions. As a result, the event draws large crowds throughout the season.
Downtown Redlands Christmas Parade
Location: Historic Downtown Redlands
Date: Saturday, December 6, 2025, evening
Event page: Downtown Redlands Christmas Parade
Add to calendar: City of Redlands events calendar
The Downtown Redlands Christmas Parade is a long running tradition. It features marching bands, dancers, local groups, and bright holiday floats. Families line the streets every year to watch the show. Because of its strong community spirit, it remains one of the most popular holiday parades in the IE.
Hometown Holiday Parade & Faire – Upland
Location: Historic Downtown Upland
Date: Saturday, December 6, 2025, 1:30 pm to 6:00 pm
Event page: City of Upland Winter Festivities
Add to calendar: Hometown Holiday Parade & Faire calendar link
Upland’s Hometown Holiday Parade and Faire brings an afternoon full of activities. The parade includes floats, music, and local performers. After that, visitors can walk the winter themed street fair with vendors, treats, and photos with Santa. The event is simple to enjoy and fits well into a busy holiday schedule.
Holiday Light Parade & Tree Lighting – Ontario
Location: Euclid Avenue and Ontario Town Square, Ontario
Date: Saturday, December 6, 2025, 6:30 pm
Event page: City of Ontario Special Events
Add to calendar: Holiday Light Parade & Tree Lighting calendar link
Ontario’s Holiday Light Parade and Tree Lighting brings together floats, performers, and a large community tree. Many families choose this event because it has a classic holiday feel. In addition, the central location makes it easy to attend.
Yucaipa Winterfest
Location: Uptown Yucaipa area
Date: Saturday, November 29, 2025, 12:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Event page: City of Yucaipa Winterfest
Add to calendar: Yucaipa Winterfest calendar link
Yucaipa Winterfest brings a full day of winter fun. The event includes snow play areas, crafts, food vendors, live music, and family activities. Kids especially enjoy the snow features, which makes this event a great option for younger families. Also, the layout of the festival makes it comfortable to walk and explore.
Why the Inland Empire Shines in December
The Inland Empire offers a wide mix of holiday events. Some focus on lights, others on parades, and many bring the whole community together. No matter where you live, you can find something local and easy to enjoy. As you plan your month, use the event links to add dates to your calendar and make the most of the season.
