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Inland Valley — Communities across the Inland Valley are closing out the holiday season and preparing to welcome the new year with a mix of cultural celebrations, seasonal light displays and New Year’s Eve gatherings that reflect the region’s diversity and community spirit.
In Rialto on Dec. 19, families are set to gather for a Kwanzaa Celebration, recognizing the seven-day culturalholiday that honors African American heritage, unity and self-determination.
Kwanzaa is observed annually from Dec. 26 through Jan. 1, with each day centered on one of seven principles, known as the Nguzo Saba.
The Rialto event, held at the Curtis T. Winton Parent Institute from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. and promoted by local partners and the Rialto Unified School District, is intended as a
community-focused celebration that brings together families, students and residents for cultural reflection and togetherness during the holiday season.
Seasonal light displays continue to draw residents throughout San Bernardino County as well.
At Guasti Regional Park, the county’s annual Holiday Walk of Lights has transformed the park into a nighttimeattraction featuring illuminated displays, themed installations and family-friendly activities.
The event, hosted by San Bernardino County Regional Parks, runs on weekends this month and will continue until Dec. 21.
It has become a popular destination for residents seeking a low-cost, outdoor holiday experience.
In Rancho Cucamonga, the Thoroughbred Christmas Lights neighborhood display remains a regional favorite.
Located along Thoroughbred and Jennet streets, the residential light show features dozens of decorated homes synchronized with festive music.
The display operates nightly through Christmas Eve and draws visitors from across the Inland Valley, with cityofficials encouraging attendees to be respectful of nearby residents and traffic conditions.
As the calendar turns toward the new year, Inland Valley cities are also preparing for New Year’s Eve celebrations, many of which are designed as family-friendly alternatives to traditional late-night parties.
Several cities, including Ontario and Riverside, traditionally host downtown celebrations, fireworks displays orlive entertainment tied to New Year’s Eve, while other communities mark the occasion with smaller gatherings, restaurant events or early countdowns for children.
Local officials have encouraged residents to check city websites and social media channels for final schedules and safety information.
Public agencies throughout the region are also reminding residents to celebrate responsibly, emphasizingdesignated drivers, rideshare options and firework restrictions that remain in place across much of San Bernardino and Riverside counties.
Together, the Kwanzaa celebration in Rialto, holiday light events in Rancho Cucamonga and Ontario, and New Year’s Eve observances across the Inland Valley highlight a season that blends cultural tradition, communitygatherings and shared celebration as residents prepare to welcome 2026.
