It’s that time of year when much of Southwest Riverside will slow down and settle in for holiday celebrations with family throughout the weekend. Still, there are some fun and magical things happening around town. Check them out:
42081 Main Street, Temecula
Pennypickle’s Polar Express is ready to roll into Old Town Temecula from 6-9 p.m. on Dec. 23 at the Temecula Children’s Museum. Cost is $25 and includes dinner.

The Ballet Studio debuted its annual production of “The Nutcracker Ballet" on Dec. 17 at Old Town Temecula Community Theater. (Courtesy photo)
Various locations throughout Southern California
From Riverside to San Diego, now is the time to hop in the car and drive to some of the biggest, brightest holiday light displays of the season.
Christmas Eve movies at UltraStar Cinemas
27531 Ynez Road, Temecula
Military guests are invited to come out for free Christmas Eve showings of some of the most exciting movies slated for the holiday season, including “Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows,” Steven Spielberg’s “The Adventures of Tintin,” “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo,” and “Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol.” The promotion begins at 6 p.m. on Christmas Eve. Admission is free with a valid military ID.
Main Street and Mercedes, Temecula
Lace on those skates and hop on the ice for an hour of wintry fun at Town Square in Old Town Temecula. The ice rink is open Dec. 16 through Jan 8. Cost is $10 per person for an hour and $2.50 skate rental (cash only).
42051 Main Street, Temecula
Sugar plums, snowflakes and tons of holiday sparkle are here now that The Ballet Studio has debuted its annual production of “The Nutcracker Ballet” at Old Town Temecula Community Theater. The show runs through Dec. 23, with varying matinee and evening performances. To learn more, or to purchase tickets visit temeculatheater.org.
42051 Main Street, Temecula
Music is always happening at The Merc in Old Town Temecula. Friday’s feature good old fashioned rock ‘n roll and Saturday’s go country at 7 p.m. Tickets are $15. Then, it’s Classics at The Merc at 3 p.m. on Sunday. Tickets are $11.
Let SWRNN know about your future events at events@swrnn.com.
Kerri S. Mabee can be reached at kerri.mabee@swrnn.com. Follow me on Twitter @kerrimabee.







