Riverside, a city nestled in the heart of California, is known for its rich cultural scene, breathtaking landscapes, and exciting events that cater to diverse interests. As we step into 2025, the city is gearing up to host a plethora of events that promise to entertain, educate, and inspire its residents and visitors alike. Here's a sneak peek into the top 5 events in Riverside's 2025 calendar that you wouldn't want to miss.
1. Riverside Festival of Lights
The Riverside Festival of Lights is a beloved annual event that transforms the city's downtown area into a winter wonderland. Scheduled to take place in late November, this six-week celebration features over 400 animated displays, live music performances, and delectable food options. Visitors can enjoy ice skating, horse-drawn carriage rides, and explore the charming shops and restaurants that line the festively decorated streets.
What to Expect:
Over 400 animated light displays Live music performances by local and national artists Ice skating rink and horse-drawn carriage rides Delicious food options and festive drinks Shopping and dining opportunities in downtown Riverside
2. Riverside International Film Festival
The Riverside International Film Festival is a premier event that showcases the best in global cinema. Scheduled to take place in April, this 10-day festival features over 100 films from around the world, including documentaries, feature films, and short films. Attendees can enjoy film screenings, panel discussions, and workshops, as well as mingle with industry professionals and film enthusiasts.
What to Expect:
Over 100 films from around the world Film screenings, panel discussions, and workshops Opportunities to meet industry professionals and film enthusiasts Red-carpet gala events and after-parties
3. Riverside County Fair and National Date Festival
The Riverside County Fair and National Date Festival is a classic American fair that celebrates the region's rich agricultural heritage. Scheduled to take place in February, this 10-day event features live music performances, delicious food options, and exciting rides and games. Visitors can explore the festival's many exhibits, including the Date Festival, which showcases the region's famous date palm trees and offers samples of date-based products.
What to Expect:
Live music performances and entertainment options Delicious food options and date-based products Exciting rides and games for all ages Exhibits showcasing the region's agricultural heritage
4. Riverside Dickens Festival
The Riverside Dickens Festival is a unique event that celebrates the life and works of Charles Dickens. Scheduled to take place in February, this four-day festival features live performances, street fairs, and Victorian-era themed activities. Visitors can enjoy tea parties, costume contests, and lectures on Dickens' works, as well as explore the festival's many vendors selling handmade crafts and artisanal goods.
What to Expect:
Live performances and street fairs Victorian-era themed activities and costume contests Tea parties and lectures on Dickens' works Handmade crafts and artisanal goods for sale
5. Riverside Arts Walk
The Riverside Arts Walk is a monthly event that celebrates the city's thriving arts scene. Scheduled to take place on the first Thursday of every month, this self-guided tour features over 20 art galleries, studios, and museums that showcase the works of local and regional artists. Visitors can enjoy live music performances, artist demonstrations, and lectures, as well as explore the city's many shops and restaurants.
What to Expect:
Over 20 art galleries, studios, and museums Live music performances and artist demonstrations Lectures and workshops on art and art history Opportunities to meet local and regional artists
In conclusion, Riverside's 2025 calendar is packed with exciting events that cater to diverse interests. Whether you're a film enthusiast, a foodie, or an art lover, there's something for everyone in this vibrant city. So mark your calendars and get ready to experience the best of Riverside!
What is the Riverside Festival of Lights?
+The Riverside Festival of Lights is a six-week celebration that takes place in late November and features over 400 animated light displays, live music performances, and delectable food options.
What is the Riverside International Film Festival?
+The Riverside International Film Festival is a 10-day event that showcases the best in global cinema, featuring over 100 films from around the world, including documentaries, feature films, and short films.
What is the Riverside Arts Walk?
+The Riverside Arts Walk is a monthly event that celebrates the city's thriving arts scene, featuring over 20 art galleries, studios, and museums that showcase the works of local and regional artists.
Gallery of Top 5 Events In Riverside 2025 Calendar
