Need a boost to your Christmas spirit? The cure can be found nestled in the heart of Riverside, California. The Mission Inn and Spa transforms into a mesmerizing winter wonderland during the Christmas season, adorned with enchanting lights that captivate the spirit of the holidays.
The Mission Inn and Spa’s Christmas lighting is a must-see for anyone seeking to immerse themselves in the festive magic of the holidays. It successfully marries tradition with innovation, creating an experience that delights visitors of all ages. The attention to detail, the vibrant ambiance, and the overall joyous atmosphere make it a standout destination for Christmas enthusiasts.
The moment you step onto the grounds of The Mission Inn during Christmas, you’re transported into a magical realm. The ambiance is nothing short of enchanting. The historic architecture of the inn serves as a picturesque backdrop for the extravagant Christmas lighting, creating a scene that feels straight out of a holiday fairy tale.
The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa’s Festival of Lights is a beloved annual tradition that has been enchanting visitors since 1992. Hosted by Kelly and Duane Roberts, the owners and Keepers of the Inn, the festival has grown to become one of the nation’s largest holiday light collections, earning recognition as the “Best Public Lights Display” by USA Today.
The inn’s story begins in 1876 when Christopher Columbus Miller, a civil engineer, purchased the property. Initially, it was a two-and-a-half-story adobe boarding house known as the “Glenwood Cottage.” Miller started expanding and transforming the property.
Saturday’s ceremony featured a star-studded lineup featuring performances by some big names in music, including Mark McGrath of Sugar Ray; Skip Martin, Grammy Award Winner of the Dazz Band and former lead singer of Kool & The Gang for 20 years; Jason Scheff, the longtime lead vocalist of the legendary band Chicago; Wally Palmar, the lead singer of The Romantics; Elliot Lurie, the lead singer of Looking Glass; Tommy Tutone; Dean Torrence of Jan & Dean; all backed by the electrifying Live 61 high-energy dance band!
The Switch-On ceremony also welcomed acclaimed comedian and actor, Cheech Marin. In partnership with Riverside Art Museum and the City of Riverside, he established The Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art & Culture, located next to the Mission Inn Hotel & Spa.
With 10 million lights, the Christmas lighting is a masterpiece of illumination. Every corner of the inn is meticulously adorned with twinkling lights, creating a symphony of colors that dance in harmony. The play of lights on the Spanish-style architecture enhances the intricate details of the building, making it a visual feast. From the towering Christmas tree in the center of the courtyard to the delicate lights draping the archways, every element contributes to a breathtaking display.
The variety of lights used in Saturday’s celebration featured a combination of traditional string lights, LED displays, and thematic ornaments that come together to form a cohesive yet diverse spectacle. The clever use of warm and cool tones adds depth to the display, creating a dynamic and visually engaging experience for visitors.
The fireworks display was icing on the cake. Take a look below:
REELated:
Inside, the inn doesn’t just offer a lighting display; it provides a full-fledged festive experience. The air is filled with the sweet melodies of Christmas carols, and the scent of holiday treats wafts through the air. Visitors can enjoy hot cocoa, explore holiday markets, and revel in the joyous atmosphere created by the combination of lights, decorations, and the spirit of the season.
Poor Service
While the lighting ceremony was absolutely unforgettable, the service at the inn that night is something I would prefer to forget. Granted the amount of traffic was high that night, but I came away feeling the Mission Inn and Spa was not prepared. More staff was clearly needed.
We were turned away from the Mission Inn Restaurant, Bella Trattoria and Las Campanas, although the latter said they would try. We were relegated to a high table in the lounge with a server who absolutely did not care. She presented a martini that was just thrown together in a tumbler. Dinner took almost an hour and even after a half-hour wait we still didn’t have our order of chips and guacamole.
But what was striking was the lack of a caring attitude on her part, the front desk’s part and even the restaurant manager we spoke with.
It made what should have been an amazing night, less than.
The Mission Inn gained fame for hosting several U.S. presidents, including Theodore Roosevelt, William Howard Taft, Herbert Hoover, and John F. Kennedy. These visits contributed to the inn’s reputation as a historic and prestigious destination. We did not feel that care from the staff.
Complaint aside, The Mission Inn and Spa’s Christmas lighting isn’t just a display; it’s a celebration of the season, a testament to the beauty of tradition, and an experience that leaves a lasting imprint of holiday cheer.
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Colin Costello is the West Coast Editor of Reel 360. Contact him at colin@reel360.com or follow him on X at @colinthewriter1
