Arts Corner

 

Arts Corner – Candy Land Comes to White Park

Contributed by Rachael Dzikonski, Executive Director, Riverside Arts Council

The holiday season is just around the corner, and downtown Riverside is getting ready to shine! This November, the Riverside Arts Council is excited to introduce Candy Land at White Park, a new holiday experience developed in partnership with the City of Riverside as part of the annual Festival of Lights. For years, the Festival of Lights has brought families, friends, and visitors together in downtown Riverside to celebrate the holiday season. This year, we’re expanding the festivities into White Park with a holiday village filled with colorful lights, interactive activities, local art, and opportunities to make new holiday memories.

The main attraction at Candy Land will be a large illuminated holiday maze, where visitors can wander through a festive display of lights surrounding a Christmas tree. Throughout the park, guests will also discover illuminated photo opportunities and the Holiday Art Trail, featuring lighted installations created by local artists. These installations bring a creative element to the holiday celebration while providing opportunities for Riverside artists to share their work with the community. Families can also enjoy a variety of activities included with admission. The Holiday Games Village will feature oversized games and interactive activities, while the Snowball Arena brings a little winter fun to Riverside with soft snowball toss games and playful challenges. The Snowfall Lounge will offer a festive place to relax and enjoy the atmosphere, with additional holiday activities and surprises throughout the park. The Artisan Marketplace will feature local artists and makers offering handmade gifts and unique creations, giving visitors another opportunity to support Riverside’s creative community while doing some holiday shopping. Seasonal food and beverages will also be available throughout the experience.

Beyond White Park, the Festival of Lights will continue to bring holiday cheer to Main Street with free community performances, food vendors, and the Artisans Collective, featuring local artists and makers. Visitors can enjoy the familiar festivities downtown while discovering something new at Candy Land. The Festival of Lights Switch-On Ceremony takes place Saturday, November 21, with Candy Land opening Friday, November 27. The White Park experience will be open Thursday through Sunday from 5:00 to 10:00 p.m., with additional nightly programming December 18–27, excluding Christmas Day.

As Riverside Arts Council continues to expand its role in the Festival of Lights, we’re excited to create new opportunities for local artists while bringing families together through creativity and community celebration. We hope you’ll join us downtown this holiday season and experience Candy Land at White Park!

Candy Land tickets and additional information can be found on the Riverside Arts Council website at www.riversideartscouncil.com.