Opinion: Riverside's Season of Community Events and Celebrations

Whenever I am out in the community, people ask me how they can get involved or find out about all the cool events happening in our city. Spring brings a jam-packed calendar of events and ways to come together as a community. So, I thought I'd make this month’s message all about Riverside community events, celebrations, and opportunities to get involved. Whether you’re a lover of the arts, an outdoor enthusiast, or just looking for fun ways to spend your weekends, there’s something happening for everyone!

This year, we are celebrating the Year of Arts & Culture in the Arts and Culture District (ACD), highlighting Riverside’s vibrant creative scene with a dynamic lineup of events, exhibitions, and performances. To keep up with the latest happenings, visit Arts & Culture District – Visit Riverside.

Beyond The ACD, Riverside is buzzing with activity. The Riverside Insect Fair on April 26th at the Main Library promises a day full of fun and discovery. With over 50 vendors, cockroach races, and interactive exhibits, this is an event that will thrill bug enthusiasts of all ages. You can enjoy story time, learn how to start your own bug collection, and even get a glimpse into the fascinating world of UC Riverside’s entomology students.

For aviation enthusiasts, the Southern California Air Show is back on April 12th and 13th at March Air Reserve Base. Spectators will be treated to breathtaking aerobatic performances, military demonstration teams, and vintage aircraft displays. The event is free and open to the public.

Pickleball fans will now have another place to play the fastest-growing sport in the country here in Riverside later this year. We will be adding brand new pickleball courts at Arlington Park this spring, beginning with a groundbreaking ceremony on March 26th. All are welcome! And for those who love animals, the Mary S. Roberts Walk with the Animals event at Fairmount Park on April 26th is the perfect opportunity to support a great cause, get active, and spend time with our furry friends.

Riversiders are also taking action to keep our city clean and beautiful with the Great American Cleanup on May 10th. This initiative is part of a nationwide movement to create a greener America ahead of the country’s 250th birthday in 2026. Join Keep Riverside Clean and Beautiful in the morning, then stick around for lunch and entertainment as a thank-you for your efforts. You can sign up at keepRiversideclean.org.

Car buffs won’t want to miss the Show and Go Car Show on May 3rd in Downtown Riverside. Hosted by the Riverside East Rotary Club and the Old Farts Racing Team, this annual gathering showcases a spectacular collection of classic cars and hot rods, making for a nostalgic and high-energy weekend. Later in the month, Magnolia Avenue will come alive on May 24th for the Arlington Business Partnership’s Chili Cook-Off & Car Show. With live music, delicious food, a kids’ zone, and a variety of street vendors, it’s a fun-filled event for the whole family. While on Magnolia, be sure to enjoy the unique local shops and restaurants of Arlington Village.

One of Riverside’s most moving traditions, the West Coast Thunder Memorial Day Motorcycle Ride, will take place on May 26th. Riders will set off from Riverside Harley-Davidson and make their way through the city, passing Riverside National Cemetery before concluding with a powerful concert at the Riverside Municipal Auditorium. This annual event is a stirring tribute to unity and remembrance of those who served and gave the ultimate sacrifice.

History aficionados will have a chance to step inside some of Riverside’s most iconic homes during the Old Riverside Foundation’s Vintage Home Tour on May 17th. This one-day-only event offers a rare glimpse into five showcase homes representing a range of architectural styles, from Victorian elegance to Mid-century Modern charm.

And don’t miss the return of the Riverside Tamale Festival on April 26th at White Park. This tasty event features mariachis, ballet folklorico, Latin jazz, Lucha Libre wrestling, a beer garden, and—of course—plenty of delicious tamales. It’s a family-friendly celebration that also helps preserve Riverside’s local history.

Riverside is a happening place! But if all of the above is not enough to keep you and your family busy, explore the Parks & Recreation Activity Guide, filled with activities for every age and every interest. For even more ways to stay engaged, active, and entertained, check out visitRiverside.com. We can’t wait to see you out and about, enjoying all that Riverside has to offer!