Inland Empire Holiday Events Date Ideas

INLAND EMPIRE LOVE

The Inland Empire might not have snow-capped Alpine chalets, but when December rolls around, it more than makes up for it with twinkling lights, festive vibes, and quirky winter-date energy. If you and your partner (or friend, or whoever) want a night that’s equal parts romantic, chill, and slightly offbeat. Here are some of my top picks for 2025

WHERE IS THE INLAND EMPIRE?

The Inland Empire is not an officially defined region of Southern California. It's called the Inland Empire because it's inland of the west coast of Southern California. The city of Temecula marks its southernmost point, and its northernmost point is the Pomona area east of Los Angeles. Some of the area's most popular cities include Riverside, San Bernardino, Chino, Ontario, Fontana, and Redlands. The area I'm most familiar with is between Riverside and Temecula.

Riverside Festival of Lights - Riverside

This classic never gets old, Downtown Riverside transforms into a winter-wonderland with millions of fairy lights on The Mission Inn, live music, festive decor, and food vendors.
Ideal for: cozy strolls under the lights, lighthearted fun, photos, and classic holiday vibes with a side of “we’re in California but we’re making Christmas magic anyway.”

Thoroughbred Holiday Lights — Rancho Cucamonga / nearby area

This one's perfect if you want something a little more local, chill, and maybe less crowded than major downtown events. Driving or strolling through a neighborhood or community decked out in lights and holiday displays can feel surprisingly magical.
Great for: wrapping up a day together, low-pressure hangouts, or pairing with takeout and hot drinks. A nice mix of festive and relaxed energy.

Victoria Gardens (shopping + strolling + holiday ambiance)

If you want the convenience of shopping, grabbing a cozy dinner, and getting into the holiday spirit all in one place, Victoria Gardens gives you a perfect trifecta of options.
It’s ideal for couples who want dinner + shopping + maybe a holiday photo or two, all without driving across the region.
Pair it with hot chocolates, window shopping, and maybe a movie or dessert afterward to round out the night.

Christmas Nights at 123 Farm — Cherry Valley

A country-style alternative to malls and city lights: think rustic charm, farm vibes, likely cozy cabins of lights, maybe some agrarian holiday décor; a totally different flavor of holiday date night.
Great for couples who want something more intimate, off-grid-ish, and grounded; a nice contrast to the hustle of shopping centers or downtown crowds.
If you both are into a slower pace, occasional quiet, and maybe a little simple holiday magic under the stars, this is a strong contender.

Inland Empire Christmas Festival — Moreno Valley

This is more of a community-festival vibe: a two-day holiday marketplace and celebration where you can stroll through vendor booths, grab festive treats, check out local crafts, perfect for supporting local makers (hey, a mindset you already get).
For a date, it’s flexible. You can drop in for an hour of browsing, stay for dinner or snacks, or make an afternoon-evening out of it.
If you and your date appreciate local art, handmade crafts, community energy, or you just want something different than the usual “lights + mall + drinks” circuit, this event hits that sweet spot.

Peltzer Farm Ice Rink

An ice rink in a vineyard? Now that’s a date night with character. Skating under string lights (vineyard vibes + holiday vibes = magic).
Because the venue doubles as a winery or farm-style place, the mood’s more relaxed and maybe a little more grown-up than typical mall-rink fare, suitable for couples who want skating plus ambience.
If you two are into skating, wine (or just a cozy evening), and something a little out of the ordinary, this is an easy win.

Santa's Village at SkyPark — (and similar festive locales)

If you’re feeling like a mini road-trip, heading to a place like Santa’s Village at SkyPark gives you a chance to mix a winter-y vibe (maybe even with some light snow or rustic cabin feels) with holiday charm.
Perfect if you want a getaway-like date, not just “eat, walk, repeat,” but little adventure + nostalgia + holiday whimsy.
Bonus: sometimes getting a little further out of your usual zone shifts the mood: more magic, more escape, more you two in your own holiday bubble.

For a map to all the locations mentioned in this article: Click Here!