Symbolizing good fortune, pomelos play a key role in Lunar New Year celebrations. Riverside’s 13th Annual Lunar Festival highlights this auspicious fruit and its cultural significance.
The familiar sights, sounds, and aromas of Riverside's Lunar Festival will once again fill downtown as our community marks its 13th annual celebration on January 25-26. This year's festival, honoring the Year of the Snake, brings exciting changes to Mission Inn Avenue while carrying forward beloved traditions that connect our city to celebrations spanning over three millennia.
Building on previous years' success, the festival committee has expanded this year's offerings to include carnival rides for the first time. The traditional marketplace between Lime and Orange Streets will feature local artisans, cultural performances, and an array of food vendors blending traditional Lunar New Year dishes with contemporary fusion cuisine. A special JDM car exhibit adds a modern touch to the festivities, while interactive workshops in calligraphy and tea ceremonies offer glimpses into time-honored traditions.
Throughout the weekend, visitors can experience lion dances, acrobatic performances, and musical entertainment ranging from traditional folk songs to K-pop performances. These celebrations echo ancient customs - from the red decorations symbolizing joy and good fortune to the lantern displays that have historically guided lost souls home during the festival period.
The free event runs Saturday from 11 AM to 8 PM and Sunday from 11 AM to 7 PM, reflecting our community's commitment to making cultural celebrations accessible to all Riversiders. Whether expressed as "Gong xi fa cai" in Mandarin or "Gung hay fat choy" in Cantonese, the spirit of renewal and community continues to thrive in our city's take on this ancient tradition.
When: Saturday, Jan 25, 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. and Sunday, Jan. 26, 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.
