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.
One 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 This Summer
Summer in Southwest Riverside County means warm evenings, outdoor concerts, and a community that knows how to enjoy the season. Here is what is going on right now — bring the family, meet your neighbors, and see why people love living here.
Concerts in the Park
Murrieta's beloved summer concert series is back with eight free Saturday evening shows at the Town Square Park Amphitheater. Featuring a mix of tribute bands and local favorites — past highlights include Quel Bordel and a Blink-182 tribute — with local food vendors and a perfect summer night atmosphere. Bring a blanket, grab some dinner, and enjoy live music under the stars with your neighbors.
Menifee Park After Dark
Free Friday night movies, Moonlight Markets with live music, and Foodie Fridays at Mt. San Jacinto College all summer long. Food trucks, family-friendly fun, and a wonderful way to spend a summer evening under the stars at parks throughout the city.
Murrieta Market Nights
Downtown Murrieta's growing night market continues on the first and third Thursday of each month, with local vendors, artisan goods, food trucks, and live entertainment. The City recently approved a 150-foot expansion to the event footprint to accommodate even more vendors — it just keeps getting better.
Temecula Sunset Market
The second and fourth Thursday evenings each month from May through October, Old Town Temecula comes alive with live music, local vendors, food, and community energy. A beloved tradition that perfectly captures the Old Town vibe.
Temecula Valley Wine Country Summer Concerts
Wineries throughout the valley host live music on their grounds all summer long — from acoustic sets among the vines to full-band performances under the stars. Check with your favorite winery or visit visittemeculavalley.com for current listings.
Menifee Trading Post Night Market
A monthly evening market at Central Park featuring local artisans, food vendors, and community energy. A great chance to meet neighbors, browse handmade goods, and enjoy a relaxed night out in Menifee.
Community Events & Annual Favorites
These are the events that bring our community together year after year. Mark your calendars — you do not want to miss these.
Murrieta Birthday Bash
Murrieta's biggest free community celebration — now in its 35th year. Live tribute bands, a Kid Zone, local vendors, food trucks, and a fireworks finale at California Oaks Sports Park. The kind of evening where you run into half the people you know. Mark your calendar for next year's party.
Murrieta Firefighters' BBQ
A beloved Murrieta tradition held each spring at Town Square Park — great food, live music, and family fun that brings the whole community together. A true small-town classic that we look forward to every year.
Rocktoberfest
A rock music and community celebration at Town Square Park Amphitheater. Enjoy live rock bands, a beer garden, German food, and community games in a festive autumn atmosphere. One of Murrieta's most spirited events of the year.
National Night Out
A community safety awareness event that connects neighbors, local law enforcement, and first responders. A great way to meet your neighbors, feel even more connected to your community, and enjoy a fun evening outdoors with the family.
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. A wonderful way for families to celebrate the season right here in our community — no long drive required.
Fall & Winter Festivals
From wine country harvest celebrations to street festivals and holiday traditions, the Temecula Valley knows how to mark every season. Here are the events we look forward to most as summer winds down.
Temecula Valley Wine Month
September 2026 · Temecula Valley
September is Wine Month in Temecula Valley — a month-long celebration featuring special tastings, harvest events, winemaker dinners, and exclusive experiences at over 40 wineries. If you love wine, this is the month to explore the valley.
De Portola Wine Trail Harvest Celebration
November 2, 2026 · De Portola Wine Trail
One of the most anticipated wine events of the year — wine tastings, barrel samples, new releases, and food pairings at seven to eight wineries along the De Portola Wine Trail, all with a single ticket. A perfect way to experience the harvest season up close.
Peltzer Pumpkin Farm & Harvest Festival
September – October 2026 · Peltzer Vineyards, Wine Country
A family favorite — Peltzer Vineyards transforms into a harvest wonderland with a pumpkin patch, hayrides, live music, and seasonal treats. Perfect for families looking for that classic fall experience right here in wine country.
Art & Street Painting Festival
Fall · Historic Old Town Temecula
A free, family-friendly festival featuring chalk street art, art exhibits, live music, and kids' activities throughout historic Old Town. Watch artists transform the pavement into stunning works of art — a truly unique Temecula experience.
Pechanga Tacos & Tequila Festival
September 2026 · Pechanga Resort Casino
Pechanga's annual celebration of tacos, tequila, and live entertainment — featuring top chefs, craft cocktails, and performances. A fun day out that showcases the best of the local food scene.
French Valley Air Show
Fall · French Valley Airport, Winchester
A free air show featuring vintage and modern aircraft, aerobatic demonstrations, and family-friendly activities. One of the most unique events in Southwest Riverside County — and a great excuse to spend the day outdoors.
Temecula Chilled & Santa's Electric Light Parade
Late November – December · Old Town Temecula
A month-long holiday celebration featuring tree lightings, wine tastings, live performances, and the beloved Santa's Electric Light Parade through Old Town — nearly 100 illuminated entries lighting up the streets. The official start of the holiday season in the valley.
The Grape Drop
New Year's Eve · Old Town Temecula
Ring in the New Year with Temecula's 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. Our version of the ball drop, wine-country style.
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 & Front Streets, Temecula
One of the area's most popular markets, 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 Mall (outside JCPenney)
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 Valley Farmers Market
Sundays · 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM · Year-Round
Mt. San Jacinto College, Menifee
A spacious Sunday market with a great selection of fresh produce, prepared foods, and local artisans. One of the newer markets in the area and a growing community favorite.
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 & 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 family competition.
24950 Madison Ave, Murrieta
Uptown Jungle Fun Park
An indoor playground and trampoline park that is 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 or a rainy afternoon.
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.
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.
Murrieta Dining
Murrieta offers an impressive range of restaurants — from The Mill's creative pizzas and Savage Chef's bold flavors to Papa Feta's Mediterranean classics and Himalayan Taste's Indian cuisine.
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. 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 Temecula Valley wine country. Over 40 wineries offer tasting rooms, restaurants, and special dining events. From casual picnic lunches among the vines to elegant winery dinners, the valley provides an experience you would usually have to drive hours to find. Wineries throughout the valley host live music, food truck events, and seasonal harvest celebrations — it is one of the best parts of living here.
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, and Centennial 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 businesses, and new reasons to be excited about calling this area home.
New Restaurants in Old Town Temecula
Old Town is welcoming some exciting new flavors. Gaucho Grill, an Argentine steakhouse, is taking over the historic Bank of Mexico building at 28645 Old Town Front Street. Meanwhile, Better Buzz Coffee and Ono Hawaiian BBQ are under construction at Temecula Town Center, expected to open by late 2026.
Shops at the Triangle & Promenade Growth
The massive Shops at the Triangle retail development between the 15 and 215 freeways in Murrieta continues to move forward — over a million square feet of retail, restaurant, hotel, and entertainment space. At the Promenade Temecula Mall, Texas Roadhouse has been approved for a new location, and Kura Sushi (the popular revolving sushi bar) is coming to Winchester Marketplace.
Menifee — Southern California's Only Boomtown
Menifee continues to earn its reputation as the only true "boomtown" in Southern California. New parks, schools, retail centers, and the Menifee Valley Business Park are transforming the city. Yoshiharu Ramen recently opened its 15th location on Newport Road — and more openings are on the way.
Infrastructure Improvements
Murrieta is investing in key infrastructure — including the Keller Road and I-215 interchange project and the Madison Avenue widening — improving access and connectivity for residents and commuters throughout the area.
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.