Local Events & What's Happening
Murrieta, Temecula, Menifee, and Southwest Riverside County are full of life. Festivals, farmers markets, family outings, and a dining scene that keeps growing. Here is your guide to the best of what our community has to offer this year and beyond.
Looking for even more local events, neighborhood guides, and community happenings? Visit our Living in Murrieta site for the full picture. Including weekly event roundups, school guides, and neighborhood deep dives.
Explore Living in MurrietaOne of the things we love most about living and working in Southwest Riverside County is how much there is to do. And how much the community shows up for it. Whether you are a longtime resident or just getting to know the area, there is always something happening. As your local real estate agents, we put this page together to help you explore it all. And to show you why so many people love calling this place home.
Happening Now: September 2026
September is one of our favorite months here in Southwest Riverside County. The long warm days ease into golden fall evenings, wine country kicks off harvest season, and the community calendar fills with ways to get out, meet your neighbors, and make memories. Here is what is happening right now around Murrieta, Temecula, and Menifee.
Murrieta
Murrieta Market Nights
Downtown Murrieta's beloved night market returns on the first and third Thursday of each month, 5:00 to 9:00 PM. This month brings September 3 and 17, with October 1 and 15 right behind. Local artisans, food vendors, and live music turn the heart of Murrieta into a lively evening out.
September 11 Tribute Ceremony
The City of Murrieta holds its annual remembrance ceremony honoring the lives lost and the heroes who stepped up on that day. A meaningful, open-to-all community gathering at 5:30 PM to reflect and remember together.
Murrieta State of the City
The city's annual State of the City address takes place at the Town Square Park Amphitheater at 7:00 PM. A wonderful chance to hear directly about the city's progress, upcoming projects, and what is ahead for our community. Open to the public.
Temecula
Temecula Valley Wine Month
September 2026 -- Temecula Valley Wine Country
September is California Wine Month across the Temecula Valley. Dozens of wineries participate with special tastings, harvest events, winemaker dinners, and grape stomps. If you have been meaning to explore the local wine scene, this is the month to do it.
Clay Walker Live
Friday, September 11 -- Temecula Valley
Country superstar Clay Walker brings his live show to a Temecula-area winery venue on Friday, September 11. An evening of country hits under the open sky in wine country. A great date night or evening out with friends.
Sundresses & Fedoras Day Party
Saturday, September 12 -- Lorimar Vineyards, Temecula
The 6th annual Sundresses and Fedoras Day Party returns to Lorimar Vineyards. Sun-drenched patio vibes, great wine, and good company among the vines. A relaxed way to spend a late-summer Saturday.
Tacos & Tequila Festival
Saturday, September 19 -- Temecula Valley
A favorite for food lovers in the valley. The Tacos and Tequila Festival returns with an incredible selection of tacos, tequila tastings, and live entertainment. An easy, delicious way to spend a Saturday in the Temecula area.
Harvest Grape Stomps
Sept 26 & 27 -- Temecula Valley Winery Estates
Roll up your pant legs and stomp some grapes. Somerset Vineyard hosts its annual Grape Stomp on Saturday, September 26, and Ponte Family Estate Winery follows with its own on Sunday, September 27. Live music, wine tasting, and good old-fashioned harvest fun among the vines.
TEDxTemecula 2026: WHAT IF?
Saturday, September 26 -- Old Town Temecula Community Theater
An inspiring day of ideas, innovation, and community conversation at the Old Town Temecula Community Theater. This year's theme is "WHAT IF?" with local speakers, performers, and thought leaders. Tickets are limited for this popular event.
Menifee
Art-A-Faire & Pop-Up Paint Night
Menifee's Art-A-Faire returns on September 18 from 5:30 to 8:30 PM at the Kay Ceniceros Senior Center, with a free student art showcase and a paid Pop-Up Paint Night. All supplies included. A creative evening of all ages that is a wonderful way to unwind and meet your neighbors.
Menifee Farmers Market
A friendly weekly Friday market serving the Menifee community with fresh produce, local goods, and artisan vendors. A convenient spot to stock up on local flavors before the weekend. Runs year-round.
Coming This Fall
As summer winds down, the calendar fills up with harvest celebrations, art festivals, concerts, and community traditions that make autumn in Southwest Riverside County something special. Here is what we are looking forward to.
Self-Care Sunsets at Murrieta Hot Springs
Sunday, September 27 & Sunday, November 22 -- Murrieta Hot Springs
A monthly artisan market promoting health and wellness at the historic Murrieta Hot Springs. Browse local vendors, enjoy wellness activities, and soak in the beautiful sunset setting. A peaceful way to close out the weekend.
Chris Botti at Thornton Winery
Saturday, October 3 -- Thornton Winery, Temecula
Grammy-winning trumpeter Chris Botti performs at the Champagne Jazz Concert Series. An evening of world-class jazz in the stunning vineyard setting. A true highlight of the fall concert calendar.
Peltzer Pumpkin Farm & Harvest Festival
Mid-September through October -- Peltzer Vineyards, Temecula
Peltzer Vineyards transforms into a classic autumn destination each fall with a pumpkin patch, hayrides, live music, and seasonal treats. A family favorite that captures everything we love about fall in wine country.
Murrieta Rod Run Car Show
October 9-10 -- Downtown Murrieta
A classic car lover's dream. Friday evening brings a Cruise Night through downtown Murrieta from 4:00 to 8:00 PM with classic cars cruising the streets. Saturday features the Show & Shine from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM with hot rods, customs, vintage trucks, and pre-1980 vehicles. Over 500 cars and 15,000 spectators attend, supporting the Oak Grove Center charity. Organized by the Drifters Car Club. Bring the whole family.
Way Out West Fest
Saturday, October 10 -- Old Town Ranch, Temecula
A Western-themed fundraiser at Old Town Ranch featuring bull riding, country music, and true Old West spirit. All proceeds support local community programs. A fun and meaningful way to spend a Saturday.
Rocktoberfest
October -- Town Square Park Amphitheater, Murrieta
A crowd-favorite Murrieta tradition. Live rock bands, a craft beer garden, German food, and community games in a festive autumn atmosphere. Past years have featured national acts and thousands of attendees. Watch the city events calendar for 2026 lineup and ticket details.
Big Horse Corn Maze & Harvest Festival
October -- Big Horse Feed & Mercantile, Temecula
Southern California's largest corn maze. Over 11 acres of twists and turns, plus a pumpkin patch, farm animals, and family-friendly harvest attractions. A must-do fall tradition for families in the valley.
Headless Horseman Rides & Ghost Tours
Weekends in October -- Old Town Temecula
As October arrives, Old Town Temecula leans into the spooky season with candlelit haunted ghost tours of the historic district and Headless Horseman carriage rides on weekend evenings. A spooky-but-friendly way to see Old Town in a whole new light.
Greek Festival of Temecula Valley
October 16-18 -- Promenade Temecula
A three-day celebration of Greek culture, food, and music at the Promenade Temecula. Traditional Greek cuisine, dancing, live music, and a wonderful community atmosphere. Proceeds support St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church's mission and community programs. A highlight of the fall season.
Menifee Fall Festival
Saturday, October 17 -- MSJC Menifee Campus
A community-wide fall celebration at Mt. San Jacinto College's Menifee campus from 4:00 to 8:00 PM. Live music, food vendors, artisan booths, kids' activities, and more. The city's annual free family-friendly autumn celebration.
SPOOKCHELLA Halloween Music & Vendor Festival
Saturday, October 17 -- Britestar Tavern, Temecula
A Halloween-themed music and vendor festival at Britestar Tavern. Live bands, costume contests, local vendors, and plenty of Halloween spirit. A fun adults' night out to celebrate the spooky season.
Starlight BIZARRE Halloween Night Market
Friday, October 23, 4:00-9:00 PM -- Promenade Temecula
A spooky evening night market at Promenade Temecula with Halloween-themed vendors, costumes, live entertainment, and family-friendly fun. The perfect way to get into the Halloween spirit.
Dark in the Park -- Murrieta Halloween Event
Friday, October 23, 5:30-8:00 PM -- Town Square Park, Murrieta
Murrieta's family Halloween celebration at Town Square Park with a concert, laser light show, costume contest, and seasonal activities. A safe and festive way to enjoy the holiday with the whole family.
Menifee Dia de los Muertos Celebration
Saturday, October 24 -- MSJC Menifee Campus
A vibrant and heartfelt celebration of Dia de los Muertos at the MSJC Menifee campus from 4:00 to 8:00 PM. Altars, traditional music, art, cultural activities, Catrina contest, and Tapete sand art decorations make this a meaningful and beautiful community event.
Temecula Halloween Carnival
Friday, October 30 -- Town Square Park, Temecula
A free family-friendly Halloween celebration with carnival games, costume contests, and activities for kids of all ages at the Civic Center Quad and Town Square Park. A safe, festive way to enjoy the holiday. Mark your calendar. This one fills up fast.
Menifee Haunt Your House Contest
October 1-31 -- Throughout Menifee
Menifee's home decorating contest runs all month long. Categories include Scariest House, Best Theme, and Most Inflatables. Decorate your home, submit your entry, and compete for fun community bragging rights. A wonderful way to get into the Halloween spirit.
Menifee Veterans Day Celebration
Wednesday, November 11 -- Hidden Hills Park, Menifee
Menifee honors our nation's veterans with a special ceremony at Hidden Hills Park from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM. A meaningful community event featuring veteran recognition, speeches, and an aerial fly-over. All are welcome.
Temecula Half Marathon, 10K & 5K
Sunday, November 8 -- Peltzer Winery, Temecula
A scenic run through Temecula wine country starting and ending at Peltzer Winery. Choose from a half marathon, 10K, or 5K distance. Post-race festivities include wine tasting, live music, and food. A beautiful way to experience the vineyards on foot.
Harvest Celebration & De Portola Wine Trail
Sunday, November 8 -- De Portola Wine Trail, Temecula
The De Portola Wine Trail hosts its annual Harvest Celebration featuring 11 wineries with special tastings, food pairings, and live music. A wonderful way to spend a Sunday exploring some of the valley's best boutique wineries.
Leonid & Friends at South Coast Winery
Friday, November 13 -- South Coast Winery, Temecula
The internationally acclaimed tribute band Leonid & Friends brings their high-energy Chicago tribute show to South Coast Winery. A fantastic evening of live music, wine, and good company in the beautiful winery setting.
Cozy Up Fall Market at Promenade Temecula
November 14-15 -- Promenade Temecula
A seasonal market event at the Promenade Temecula featuring local vendors, artisan crafts, holiday gift shopping, and cozy fall activities. The perfect way to ease into the holiday season and find unique gifts for everyone on your list.
Menifee Trot for a Cause
Saturday, November 21 -- Central Park, Menifee
A community fun run and walk at Central Park from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM supporting a great cause. A wonderful way to get moving, enjoy the crisp November weather, and support the Menifee community.
Ricky Martin at Pechanga Resort Casino
Sunday, November 8 -- Pechanga Resort Casino, Temecula
Global superstar Ricky Martin brings his live show to the Pechanga Theater. An unforgettable evening of high-energy performance and Latin pop hits. Tickets go fast for this one.
Above The Iron Comedy Nights
Select Fridays -- Grey Iron Brewing Co., Menifee
Grey Iron Brewing Company in Menifee hosts stand-up comedy nights as part of their "Above The Iron" series. A great local spot for craft beer and laughs. Check their social media for upcoming show dates throughout the fall.
Annual Community Favorites
These are the traditions that bring our community together year after year. If you missed one this season, put it on your calendar for the next one.
Murrieta Birthday Bash
Murrieta's biggest free community celebration. The 35th annual edition was held this past June at California Oaks Sports Park with live tribute bands, a Kid Zone, food vendors, and a fireworks finale. If you missed it, mark your calendar for next year. It is the kind of evening where you run into half the people you know.
Murrieta Firefighters' BBQ
A beloved spring tradition at Town Square Park with great BBQ, live music, and family activities. The whole community turns out for this one. Keep an eye on the city events calendar for 2027 dates.
Festival of Trees & Tree Lighting
The official start of the holiday season in Murrieta. The community gathers at Town Square Park for the annual tree lighting ceremony, with holiday festivities, seasonal entertainment, and that warm small-town feeling that makes the holidays special.
Winter Wonderland
Holiday crafts, photos with Santa, and seasonal festivities bring the magic of the holidays to life right here in our community. A wonderful way for families to celebrate the season without having to drive far.
The Grape Drop
Temecula rings in the New Year with its signature celebration. Live entertainment, the iconic illuminated grape drop from the Civic Center clock tower, and a festive atmosphere that draws the whole community to Old Town. Wine country's version of the ball drop, and it is wonderful.
Temecula Chilled Holiday Celebration
Old Town Temecula comes alive for the holidays with tree lightings, wine tastings, live performances, and the beloved Santa's Electric Light Parade. Nearly 100 illuminated entries light up the streets. It is the official start of the holiday season in the valley.
Holiday Happenings 2026
The holiday season in Southwest Riverside County is truly magical. From tree lightings to parades, Santa visits to holiday markets. Here are the confirmed dates we know of so far. We will update this section as more details are announced.
Santa's Arrival at Pennypickle's
Friday, November 27 -- Pennypickle's Workshop, Old Town Temecula
Santa arrives in his cozy cottage at Pennypickle's Workshop from 6:00 to 9:00 PM. Visits continue on weekends through December 20. A wonderful family tradition in the heart of Old Town.
Temecula Christmas Tree Lighting
Monday, November 30 -- Temecula Duck Pond
The annual tree lighting ceremony at the Temecula Duck Pond from 7:00 to 8:30 PM. Festive music, treats, and a visit from Santa. A beautiful way to kick off the holiday season.
Santa's Electric Light Parade
Friday, December 4 -- Old Town Temecula
Nearly 100 illuminated floats, marching bands, and Santa travel south through Old Town starting at 7:00 PM. Bring blankets and chairs. This is the holiday highlight of the season in Temecula.
Menifee Christmas Tree Lighting & Holiday Bazaar
Saturday, December 5 -- MSJC Menifee Campus
Menifee's annual Christmas Tree Lighting and Holiday Bazaar from 4:00 to 8:00 PM at the MSJC Menifee Campus. Holiday shopping, live entertainment, photos with Santa, snow play, and the official lighting of the community Christmas tree. A wonderful family evening.
Murrieta Festival of Trees & Tree Lighting
Late November / Early December -- Town Square Park, Murrieta
The official start of the holiday season in Murrieta. The community gathers at Town Square Park for the annual tree lighting ceremony, with dozens of decorated Christmas trees, holiday festivities, seasonal entertainment, and a toy and food drive. Check murrietaca.gov for the exact 2026 date.
Temecula Chilled Holiday Celebration
Late November through December -- Old Town Temecula
A season-long holiday celebration throughout December featuring holiday decor, performances at the Old Town Temecula Community Theater, the Holiday Taste of Old Town food stroll, and seasonal activities throughout the district.
Peltzer Ice Rink & Drinks
Late November through the holidays -- Peltzer Vineyards, Temecula
Peltzer Vineyards opens its holiday ice rink for the season, offering ice skating among the vines with warm drinks and festive treats. A charming way to ring in the holidays in wine country. Details for the 2026 opening are typically announced on Peltzer's site in November.
Farmers Markets
There is nothing quite like a Saturday morning at the farmers market. Fresh produce, local honey, artisan bread, and the chance to connect with your neighbors. These markets are a weekly tradition for good reason.
Old Town Temecula Saturday Market
Saturdays, 8:00 AM-12:30 PM -- Year-Round
Corner of Sixth and Front Streets, Temecula
One of the area's most popular markets with 70-80 vendors, set in the heart of historic Old Town. Fresh local produce, honey, sourdough, artisan goods, and a wonderful community atmosphere. A perfect weekend morning tradition.
Murrieta Certified Farmers' Market
Sundays, 9:00 AM-1:00 PM -- Year-Round
Village Walk Plaza, Murrieta
A year-round Sunday market with fresh local produce, specialty foods, and community vendors. A great way to start your week with the freshest ingredients and a friendly, welcoming vibe.
Promenade Certified Farmers' Market
Wednesdays, 9:00 AM-1:00 PM -- Year-Round
Promenade Temecula (JCPenney parking lot)
A convenient midweek market at the Promenade Mall. Perfect for grabbing fresh produce during your errands. Local vendors, seasonal fruits and vegetables, and a relaxed shopping experience.
Menifee Farmers Market
Fridays, 9:00 AM-1:00 PM -- Year-Round
Cherry Hill Boulevard, Menifee
A weekly Friday market serving the Menifee community with fresh produce, local goods, and artisan vendors. A convenient spot to stock up on local flavors before the weekend.
Vail Headquarters Farmers Market
Tuesdays, 10:00 AM-1:00 PM
Vail Headquarters, Temecula
Set at the historic Vail Headquarters, this midweek market combines fresh local produce with a unique, historic setting. A hidden gem for those who know.
Sun City Farmers Market
2nd and 4th Saturdays -- Year-Round
Menifee United Church of Christ, Sun City
A bi-monthly market serving the Sun City and Menifee community with fresh produce, local goods, and a friendly neighborhood atmosphere. Free admission.
Family-Friendly Activities
Whether you have toddlers or teenagers, there is always something fun to do with the family in Southwest Riverside County.
Mulligan Family Fun Center
Mini golf, batting cages, go-karts, and an arcade. All in one spot on Madison Avenue. A go-to for birthday parties, weekend outings, and friendly family competition.
24950 Madison Ave, Murrieta
Uptown Jungle Fun Park
An indoor playground and trampoline park. Perfect for burning energy on hot days or rainy afternoons. Great for younger kids and birthday parties.
39493 Los Alamos Rd, Murrieta
Old Town Temecula
Stroll the historic boardwalks, browse antique shops, enjoy live music, and grab a meal at one of the many restaurants. Old Town has a wonderful small-town atmosphere the whole family can enjoy.
Old Town Front St, Temecula
Hot Air Balloon Rides
The Temecula Valley is one of the best places in Southern California for hot air balloon rides. Float over the vineyards at sunrise with one of several local operators. An unforgettable experience.
Various Launch Sites in Temecula
Promenade Temecula
The area's main shopping destination, with over 170 stores and restaurants, plus a movie theater and seasonal events. A great spot for a family day out. Recent additions include Kura Revolving Sushi Bar, a LEGO Store, CHAGEE Tea, and Cotti Coffee.
40820 Winchester Rd, Temecula
Town Square Park & Amphitheater
The heart of Murrieta's community life. A beautiful park with an amphitheater that hosts concerts, movies, and events throughout the year. Kids love the playground, and there is always something happening.
11 Town Square, Murrieta
Food & Dining Scene
The dining scene in Murrieta and Temecula has grown tremendously, and it keeps getting better. From casual taco shops to fine dining, Old Town bars to wine country restaurants, there is something for every palate and every occasion.
Fine Dining & Steakhouses
For a special night out, try Great Oak Steakhouse, Gambling Cowboy Chophouse, or Corbeaux. These restaurants offer exceptional food, curated wine lists, and an atmosphere worth savoring. And Gaucho Grill, an Argentine steakhouse, is opening soon in the historic Bank of Mexico building in Old Town Temecula.
Old Town Favorites
Old Town Temecula is packed with character and flavor. The Swing Inn for BBQ and breakfast, 1909 for craft cocktails, Devilicious for creative comfort food, and The Goat & Vine for wine-friendly small plates. Newer spots include La Pe�a Mexican Grill and the recently opened Kura Revolving Sushi Bar.
Murrieta Dining
Murrieta offers an impressive range of restaurants. The Mill's creative pizzas, Savage Chef's bold flavors, Papa Feta's Mediterranean classics, Himalayan Taste's Indian cuisine, and newer spots like SOPO K-Grill, Valley Pizza Kitchen, and Masa Madre are all worth a visit. Lin's Grand Buffet opened its first California location here, and Talia Kitchen is coming to Murrieta Hot Springs Resort.
Craft Breweries
The local brewery scene is thriving. 8 Bit Brewing and Garage Brewing in Murrieta, plus Black Market Brewing, Ironfire, and Oscar's Brewing in Temecula. Grey Iron Brewing in Menifee also hosts stand-up comedy nights. A growing selection of taprooms with great vibes and even better beer.
Wineries & Wine Country Dining
No discussion of the local dining scene would be complete without the Temecula Valley wine country. Over 40 wineries offer tasting rooms, restaurants, and special dining events. From casual picnics among the vines to elegant winemaker dinners, the valley provides an experience you would normally have to drive hours to find. New additions like Better Buzz Coffee and Ono Hawaiian BBQ are also under construction in the Temecula Town Center, and CAVA Mediterranean is planned for the Temecula Parkway Shopping Center.
Outdoor Recreation & Trails
Southwest Riverside County is a paradise for outdoor lovers. From ecological preserves to mountain biking trails, our area offers incredible access to nature right outside your door.
Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Preserve
Murrieta -- 39400 Clinton Keith Rd
A 9,000-acre preserve with miles of trails through grasslands, oak woodlands, and unique vernal pools. One of the most beautiful natural spaces in the region and a must for nature enthusiasts.
WhiteCross Mountain Bike Trails
Murrieta -- Central Park Dr
A network of mountain biking trails that range from beginner-friendly to challenging singletrack. A local favorite for riders looking for a great workout with scenic views.
Sylvan Meadows Trailhead
Murrieta -- Tenaja Rd
An entry point to the Santa Rosa Plateau with scenic hiking and equestrian trails. The rolling hills and seasonal wildflowers make this a local gem.
Greer Ranch & Bell Mountain
Menifee
Popular hiking spots in Menifee offering rewarding views. Bell Mountain and the Greer Ranch trail system provide varied terrain for hikers of different levels.
Santa Margarita River Trail
Fallbrook / Temecula
A peaceful riparian trail along the Santa Margarita River, featuring lush vegetation and a natural retreat from the bustle of daily life. Great for walking and birdwatching.
Parks & Sports Complexes
Murrieta -- Temecula -- Menifee
California Oaks Sports Park, Alta Murrieta Sports Park, Harveston Community Park, Centennial Park, and Central Park all offer pools, fields, playgrounds, and open spaces for active families.
What's New in the Area
Southwest Riverside County is growing. And that means new restaurants, new stores, and new reasons to be excited about calling this area home. Here are some of the recent openings and developments we are watching.
New at Promenade Temecula
The Promenade Temecula keeps adding exciting new names. Kura Revolving Sushi Bar, a conveyor-belt sushi concept, opened in April 2026, with plates starting at $3.95. A LEGO Store, the first in all of Riverside County, is also here. CHAGEE Tea and Cotti Coffee round out the new dining and retail options. And Texas Roadhouse has been approved for a new location at the mall as well.
Temecula Dining & Retail Updates
The Temecula dining scene keeps expanding. Einstein Bros. Bagels opened in February on Temecula Parkway. Better Buzz Coffee and Ono Hawaiian BBQ are under construction at the former Claim Jumper site on Rancho California Road. CAVA, a Mediterranean fast-casual concept, is planned for the Temecula Parkway Shopping Center. La Pe�a Mexican Grill is coming to Jefferson Avenue. And the historic Bank of Mexico building in Old Town is being transformed into Gaucho Grill, an Argentine steakhouse.
Murrieta Innovation Center & New Dining
The city of Murrieta opened its new Innovation Center this year, featuring offices, meeting rooms, presentation space, and a wet lab for life-science startups. On the dining side, Lin's Grand Buffet opened its first California location here, and Talia Kitchen is coming to the Murrieta Hot Springs Resort. Newer local favorites include SOPO K-Grill, Masa Madre, Valley Pizza Kitchen, and Jumunjin.
Infrastructure & New Development
Murrieta is investing in key infrastructure improvements, including the Keller Road and I-215 interchange project and the Madison Avenue widening. The Shops at the Triangle development between the 15 and 215 freeways continues with over a million square feet of retail, restaurant, hotel, and entertainment space in the pipeline. In Menifee, the massive Menifee Valley Business Park (five industrial buildings totaling nearly 5 million square feet) is under active construction, and Southwest Traders is relocating its headquarters there, bringing 250 local jobs. Our community is growing in wonderful ways.
Not Ready Yet? That Is Okay.
Most people reach out long before they are ready to make a move because they have questions about timing, pricing, neighborhoods, payments, or what the next step should be. Our goal is to help you understand your options early so you can make a calm, confident decision when the time is right. No pressure, no rush, just honest guidance.
Thinking about making a move to the area? We would love to help you find the right home near all the things that make Southwest Riverside County special. Whether it is the farmers market down the street, a trailhead five minutes away, or the school your kids will love, the right neighborhood changes everything.