March 29, 2024
Virus downsizes Riverside’s Festival of Lights
RIVERSIDE – (INT) – The 28th edition of the Festival of Lights is not as bright or festive this year.

A lower-cost version of what became Riverside’s signature event is being scaled back because of health protections stemming from the coronavirus pandemic.

Last summer, the Riverside City Council expressed concern about a second wave of COVID-19, which has come to pass, and voted to fund only $60,000 for this year’s festival. Also in the mix was the increased cost of providing personal protection equipment (PPE) for staff, vendors and volunteers plus the cost of creating social distancing measures such as additional security.

Under the state’s color-tiered system, Riverside County remains in the purple tier which does not allow for large gatherings.

Visitors will still find holiday décor adorning the Mission Inn including three holiday trees, large ornaments, a sleigh, and bows and garland on lights and bridges.

There was no Switch-On ceremony the day after Thanksgiving, no entertainment or attractions, no vendors and no horse carriages.

“I look forward to a time when we can gather together again as a community to celebrate the holidays in a special way”, Mayor Rusty Bailey said.
Story Date: December 28, 2020
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