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7 Must-Attend Inland Empire Events Happening TODAY, December 23, 2025

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Planning your day in Southern California’s vibrant Inland Empire (IE) just got easier. With school breaks in full swing and the final push of the holiday season upon us, today, December 23, 2025, is packed with diverse and exciting activities across Riverside and San Bernardino Counties. Whether you are looking for a dazzling evening spectacle, a fun-filled day camp for the kids, or a professional networking opportunity, the IE region offers something for every interest. We’ve compiled the absolute latest and most essential events happening right now to ensure your day is memorable and well-spent.

The Inland Empire is a sprawling hub of culture, entertainment, and business, encompassing major cities like Riverside, San Bernardino, Ontario, and Temecula. As the year winds down, the area truly shines, particularly with its world-class holiday attractions. This guide provides current details, including times and locations, for the best events running today, giving you the topical authority you need to navigate the region’s busy calendar.

The Inland Empire's Dazzling Holiday Spectacles (Riverside & Beaumont)

The final days leading up to Christmas are the perfect time to experience the Inland Empire’s most spectacular light displays. These events are regional icons, drawing visitors from all over Southern California and establishing the IE as a premier holiday destination.

1. The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa Festival of Lights (Riverside)

The crown jewel of the Inland Empire’s holiday season is undoubtedly the annual Festival of Lights at the historic Mission Inn Hotel & Spa in Downtown Riverside. This is a bucket-list event that transforms the century-old hotel into a magnificent castle of light, rivaling any holiday display in the nation.

  • What It Is: A breathtaking display featuring nearly five million twinkling lights, hundreds of animated figures, and a spectacular array of holiday decorations. The lights turn on nightly, creating a truly magical atmosphere in the heart of Riverside.
  • Happening Today, December 23, 2025: The lights will be on display throughout the evening. While the official "Switch-On Ceremony" happens earlier in the season, the visual spectacle is at its peak right now.
  • Location: The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa, 3649 Mission Inn Avenue, Riverside, CA 92501.
  • Time & Cost: The lights typically illuminate around 5:30 PM and remain on until the morning. Viewing the exterior lights is free, though parking and dining reservations in the area are highly recommended due to high demand.
  • Topical Authority Insight: Consider walking the surrounding downtown streets, which are also decorated, and grab a hot cocoa at a local business to fully immerse yourself in the Riverside holiday spirit.

2. Christmas Nights at 123 Farm (Beaumont)

For a more rustic, farm-to-table holiday experience, the Christmas Nights at 123 Farm in Beaumont offers a unique and enchanting escape. Set on a certified organic lavender farm, this event blends natural beauty with spectacular festive lighting.

  • What It Is: Over one million sparkling lights spread across the lavender fields, olive groves, and historic buildings of the farm. The experience includes tractor wagon rides, s'mores pits, festive food and drink, and a chance to meet Santa.
  • Happening Today, December 23, 2025: This is one of the final nights for the 2025 season, making it a critical last-chance opportunity.
  • Location: 123 Farm, 10600 Highland Springs Ave, Beaumont, CA 92223.
  • Time & Cost: Open from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM. Admission prices vary, with general adult tickets starting around $10-$28, and kids (6-17) slightly less. It is strongly advised to purchase tickets online in advance to secure your entry.
  • LSI Keyword Focus: This event is a major draw for families in the East Inland Empire, including areas like Banning, Redlands, and Palm Springs, seeking authentic holiday family fun and agricultural tourism.

Family-Friendly Day Activities for School Break

With most schools in the Inland Empire (IE) closed for the winter break, parents are actively searching for engaging and safe daytime activities. Today's schedule includes both local, free options and major regional excursions perfect for children of all ages.

3. Schools Out Play Days at Inland Empire Gymnastics Academy (Riverside)

Need a way for your children to burn off some energy while schools are closed? The Inland Empire Gymnastics Academy (IEGA) offers a structured yet fun environment for kids during the break.

  • What It Is: A supervised open gym and play session designed for children, offering designated areas for various age groups, including a special section for toddlers (5 and under). It's a great alternative to traditional childcare and a perfect opportunity for kids to explore their physical skills.
  • Happening Today, December 23, 2025: Confirmed to be running as part of their holiday break schedule.
  • Location: Check the IEGA website for the specific Riverside or San Bernardino location hosting the "Play Days."
  • Time & Cost: Sessions often run in the afternoon or early evening (e.g., 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM on some days). It is a paid activity, and pre-registration is usually required to ensure capacity limits are met.
  • Relevance: This is a key event for IE parents looking for structured kids activities and winter break camps in the region.

4. December Book and Craft at Hesperia Branch Library (High Desert)

For a free, engaging, and educational activity in the High Desert area of San Bernardino County, the local library programs are an excellent resource for families and young children.

  • What It Is: The Hesperia Branch Library often hosts a Book and Craft program where children can hear a seasonal story and then participate in a fun, hands-on craft project. This helps foster early literacy and creativity.
  • Happening Today, December 23, 2025: The library's December programming is active, and the Book & Craft is typically a morning or midday event on Tuesdays. Today's session offers a wonderful opportunity for a quiet, indoor activity.
  • Location: Hesperia Branch Library, 9650 Live Oak Ave, Hesperia, CA 92345.
  • Time & Cost: Generally scheduled in the late morning (e.g., 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM). The event is typically free to the public.
  • Entity Focus: The San Bernardino County Library System provides vital, free community events that support local families during the holiday season.

5. Final Day for Aquarium Holidays at the Aquarium of the Pacific (Regional Draw)

While technically located just outside the IE in Long Beach, the Aquarium of the Pacific is a major regional attraction and a common day trip for families across the Inland Empire, especially during school breaks. Today is the final day for their special holiday programming.

  • What It Is: The last chance to experience Aquarium Holidays, featuring festive decorations, a special Kwanzaa display, and the famous Santa Diver, who scuba dives in the tank alongside the marine life. There are also opportunities for photos and a fun Penguin Parade.
  • Happening Today, December 23, 2025: This is the last day of the special holiday programming.
  • Location: Aquarium of the Pacific, 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach, CA 90802.
  • Time & Cost: Doors open at 9:00 AM. General admission applies. Booking tickets online is highly recommended to save time.
  • Topical Authority Insight: This event is a great example of regional IE tourism, where local residents utilize the proximity to coastal attractions for a day trip.

Professional and Community Networking Opportunities

The Inland Empire is not just about lights and family fun; it's also a major economic engine. Even during the holiday rush, professional organizations continue to host events to support the local business community.

6. NLBWA Inland Empire Event (Latina Business Network)

The National Latina Business Women Association - Inland Empire (NLBWA-IE) is a cornerstone of the IE's professional landscape, dedicated to empowering Latina entrepreneurs and professionals across Riverside and San Bernardino Counties.

  • What It Is: The NLBWA-IE often hosts workshops, networking mixers, or planning meetings on weekdays. These events are crucial for mentorship, corporate partnerships, and developing business goals within the IE’s diverse economy.
  • Happening Today, December 23, 2025: An event is listed on the calendar for today, focusing on their mission to empower Latinas in business.
  • Location: Check the official NLBWA-IE website for the specific venue, which may be in a major business hub like Ontario, Corona, or Riverside.
  • Time & Cost: Varies depending on the type of event (e.g., a morning meeting or an evening mixer).
  • Entity Focus: This event highlights the IE business community, Latina entrepreneurship, and professional development as key areas of topical authority in the region.

Planning Your Inland Empire Day: Tips and Entities

Navigating the Inland Empire's vast geography requires strategic planning, especially during peak holiday travel times. The IE encompasses a massive area, and travel between major hubs like San Bernardino, Riverside, and the High Desert requires considering traffic and distance. Key entities influencing today’s experience include:

  • Riverside County Transportation: Expect heavy traffic, particularly around the Mission Inn area in the evening. Utilize public parking structures or ride-sharing services.
  • San Bernardino County Regional Parks: While no major events are listed for today, these parks (like Glen Helen or Mojave Narrows) offer excellent, low-cost alternatives for outdoor activities during the day.
  • Local Chambers of Commerce: Organizations in cities like Ontario, Rancho Cucamonga, and Temecula often host smaller, localized events that may not make the major regional lists. Always check your local city’s calendar for hyper-local options.
  • Weather: December 23rd in the IE can range from crisp and cool to surprisingly warm. Dress in layers, especially for evening events like the Festival of Lights.

The variety of events available today, December 23, 2025, from the enchanting Mission Inn Festival of Lights to the crucial NLBWA-IE professional gathering, underscores the Inland Empire’s status as a dynamic and growing region. Whether you are a long-time resident or a visitor, the IE offers a rich tapestry of experiences that are both fresh and deeply rooted in community spirit. Don't wait—these holiday events are wrapping up soon!

inland empire events today
inland empire events today

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