The Magic Returns: The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa’s Festival of Lights Shines Brighter Than Ever

There’s no place quite like Southern California during the holidays, but few destinations capture the magic of the season like The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa in Riverside. Every winter, this historic landmark transforms into a dazzling wonderland of twinkling lights, festive cheer, and timeless holiday traditions, drawing visitors from all over the state who come to bask in its glow.

Now celebrating another spectacular year, the Festival of Lights has become a cherished holiday tradition, a heartfelt celebration of community, joy, and togetherness. It’s the kind of experience that reminds us what makes the holidays so special: moments shared with loved ones, laughter echoing down cobblestone paths, and the pure delight of childlike wonder.

“This cherished tradition has always been about community, celebration, and creating magical memories,” shared Kelly and Duane Roberts, Keepers of The Mission Inn. “We are proud to continue bringing joy to Riverside and beyond with this year’s Festival of Lights.”

The Festival of Lights, a creative vision of Kelly Roberts, whose passion for spreading holiday cheer is at its heart, welcomes guests back this year with even more enchantment. From the moment the lights flicker to life, visitors are transported into a storybook setting where every detail is designed to dazzle.

Stay, Celebrate, and Savor the Season

To make the most of the season, The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa has introduced an incredible lineup of holiday packages that blend cozy luxury with festive flair. Each package is crafted to create unforgettable memories, whether you’re escaping for a romantic getaway or bringing the whole family to experience the magic.

The Festival of Lights and Delights Package (starting at $399, available Sunday–Thursday) includes overnight accommodations, a $50 food and beverage credit for any of the hotel’s award-winning restaurants, and carousel rides for all registered guests a whimsical nod to holiday nostalgia.

For those looking to indulge, the Eat, Drink, and Be Merry Package (starting at $419) offers overnight accommodations, a food and beverage credit, and two of Casey’s Cupcakes’ famous holiday treats paired with hot chocolate or eggnog because no festive stay is complete without a little sweetness.

Families will love the Holiday Elf Package (starting at $429), which includes an in-room story time with the Inn’s special Holiday Elf, a children’s Christmas book, stockings, cupcakes, and ride tickets, a perfect way to make holiday dreams come alive.

If you’re after a grander escape, Rudolph’s Winter Wonderland Package (starting at $849) offers a two-night stay in The Kensington Kelly Suite, complete with festive décor, hot chocolate turndown service, sparkling cider, and Casey’s Cupcakes. Or, for the ultimate luxury, the Sugar Plums and Suite Dreams Package (starting at $799) includes a private caroling session in your suite, yes, your very own holiday serenade, along with a $75 dining credit and more seasonal treats.

A Culinary Celebration

Of course, no holiday experience at The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa is complete without indulging in its exceptional culinary offerings. Guests can savor flavors of the season across four acclaimed restaurants: Mission Inn Restaurant, Duane’s Prime Steaks and Seafood, Las Campanas, and Bella Trattoria.

This year’s Holiday Brunches are a must from Thanksgiving and Christmas to New Year’s Day. Surrounded by the glow of the Inn’s architecture and lavish décor, guests can enjoy made-to-order omelets, carved meats, fresh seafood, artisanal breads, and decadent desserts, accompanied by complimentary champagne and mimosas for those 21 and over.

For an even more elevated celebration, the Grand Holiday Brunch in the Parisian Ballroom offers live entertainment and, for Christmas, a visit from Santa himself.

And for families, Breakfast with Santa is the ultimate festive tradition. Kids can share their wish lists while enjoying a delicious breakfast, and on select Sundays in December, Santa joins the hotel’s Champagne Brunch, adding a sprinkle of joy (and photo ops) for guests of all ages.

Evening celebrations shine just as bright. Throughout December, the Holiday Dinner Buffets featuring Prime Rib, carved turkey, and a feast of seasonal sides bring everyone together for heartwarming dinners, including a special Christmas Eve buffet curated by Chef Roberto Hernandez.

Relax and Renew at Kelly’s Spa

Amidst the holiday excitement, guests can unwind in true luxury at Kelly’s Spa, an Italian-inspired sanctuary that evokes the tranquil villas of Tuscany. With its golden Venetian plaster, marble mosaics, and warm, glowing tones, the spa is a world away from the hustle and bustle, offering massages, body rituals, and restorative treatments designed to refresh the mind and body.

It’s the perfect way to end (or begin) your holiday stay, a reminder that even in the busiest season, a little self-care goes a long way.

Where Holiday Dreams Come True

From the first sparkle of light to the last sip of cocoa, The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa’s Festival of Lights continues to capture hearts year after year. Whether you’re there for a day visit, a weekend getaway, or an extended stay, you’ll find yourself surrounded by beauty, laughter, and the kind of magic only The Mission Inn can create.

For more details, booking information, and updates about The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa’s Festival of Lights, visit www.missioninn.com/about/festival-of-lights