The end of the year always seems brighter with holiday lights, decorations and good cheer. If you haven’t already been, we have some recommendations for enjoying the spirit of the season.
Start with going on a walk in your own neighborhood…enjoy the lights through the windows of the homes and businesses nearby, the trees and inflated santas and reindeer! Then check out Thoroughbred and Jenner streets in Rancho Cucamongo. The neighbors on that street have for years decorated and welcomed outsiders to enjoy the Christmas spirit. Of late, so many of us have driven up the hill that the city ordered that only “drive through” is allowed for everyone’s safety.
December 2 – 24, 5pm to 11pm
DRIVE THROUGH ONLY
8287 Thoroughbred, Rancho Cucamonga
Festival of Lights, Mission Inn
through January 6, 2023
3649 Mission Inn Avenue, Riverside
Downtown Riverside offers one of the largest holiday displays in the country at the Mission Inn, historic museum, hotel and spa. For 30 years, the Mission Inn has presented the Festival of Lights, a full square block of displays, decorations, and lights. Nearby Main Street provides food vendors, live music, opportunities to visit with Santa and even more photo ops through December 31.
Enjoy Hanukkah celebrations in downtown Riverside at the historic courthouse and at the Civic Center, where there will be menorah lighting, music, latkes, donuts and holiday crafts.
December 19, 6pm to 8p
4050 Main Street, Courthouse, Riverside
Kwanzaa is celebrated December 26 to January 1, highlighting African American family and social values. At Mt. San Jacinto college, a special event including music, soul food, community and dance is offered December 18 at the campus theater.
December 18, 2022, 5:15pm to 7:30pm
Mt San Jacinto Campus Theater,
1499 State Street, San Jacinto
Don’t forget to check out your local city websites for holiday events. Most cities in the area have just completed their holiday lighting celebrations, but my town of La Verne is having a tree lighting ceremony tonight (Dec. 5) complete with santa and carols.
Tree LIghting Ceremony, La Verne
December 5, 6:30pm
City Hall, 3660 D Street, La Verne
For other events, the San Bernardino Sun has compiled a list of activities in our area. Here’s the link: https://www.sbsun.com/tag/christmas/
