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: November & December 2026
Last updated: October 2026
November is one of our favorite months in Southwest Riverside County. The weather turns that perfect golden fall, the community comes together for Veterans Day and Thanksgiving, and the first hints of the holiday season start to appear. Whether you have lived here for years or are just getting to know the area, there is always something happening. Here is what is coming up around Murrieta, Temecula, Menifee, and the wider county this season.
Murrieta
Murrieta Market Nights
First & third Thursdays, 5:00-9:00 PM -- Historic Downtown Murrieta
Downtown Murrieta comes alive on Thursday evenings with an open-air market along Washington Avenue. Local vendors, food trucks, live music, and neighbors catching up on a warm evening. The next market nights are November 5 and November 19, with more dates continuing through the holidays.
Murrieta Rotary Field of Honor
November 7-15 -- Town Square Park, Murrieta
For nine days each November, thousands of American flags line Town Square Park in a moving tribute to our veterans, active service members, and first responders, hosted by the Rotary Clubs of Murrieta and Old Town Temecula. Visitors are welcome to walk the field, and many families plant a flag in honor of someone they love. It is one of the most meaningful sights of the year.
Murrieta Veterans Day Parade
Wednesday, November 11, 10:00 AM -- Downtown Murrieta
Murrieta's 24th annual Veterans Day Parade steps off at 10:00 AM on Washington Avenue at Ivy Street and winds through downtown to Town Square Park. Marching bands, veterans' groups, classic cars, and community pride. Bring the family and show our veterans some love.
Temecula Valley Business EXPO
Thursday, November 12, 3:30-7:00 PM -- Murrieta Hot Springs Resort
The Murrieta Chamber brings the business community together at the Murrieta Hot Springs Resort for an afternoon of local vendors, networking, and small-business connections. A great way to meet the people who make our community run, whether you are a longtime business owner or just like supporting local.
Murrieta Mesa Turkey Trot & Food Drive
Thursday, November 19, 7:30 AM 5K / 8:30 AM fun run -- Murrieta Mesa High School
The sixth annual Murrieta Mesa Turkey Trot & Food Drive benefits Mesa Athletics and the local food bank. Choose the 5K or the one-mile family fun run, then enjoy a morning of community spirit and giving back as the holiday week gets started.
Temecula
Peltzer Pumpkin Farm
Final days through Halloween, October 31 -- Peltzer Winery, Temecula
Peltzer Winery transforms into a classic autumn destination each October with a pumpkin patch, hayrides, live music, and seasonal treats. It is one of our favorite ways to close out fall in wine country, so catch it before it wraps up for the season.
Temecula Halloween Carnival
Friday, October 30, 5:30-8:30 PM -- Civic Center, Temecula
A free community Halloween celebration at Temecula's Civic Center at 41000 Main Street, with carnival games, costume contests, and trunk-or-treating with first responders. This one fills up fast, so mark your calendar.
Temecula Half Marathon, 10K & 5K
Sunday, November 8 -- Wilson Creek Winery, Temecula
A scenic run through Temecula wine country starting and finishing at Wilson Creek Winery, the race's new home base for 2026. Choose the half marathon, 10K, or 5K (plus a kid's run), then enjoy post-race wine tasting, live music, and food. A beautiful way to see the vineyards on foot.
Cozy Up Fall Market
November 14-15, 10:00 AM-7:00 PM -- Promenade Temecula
A curated gathering of local artisans and small businesses at Promenade Temecula with a charming autumn feel. Browse handmade gifts, seasonal finds, and early holiday treasures while you shop small and support local makers.
BOTTAIA Holiday Photos & Market Night
Friday, November 5 -- BOTTAIA Winery, Temecula
BOTTAIA Winery kicks off the holiday season with an evening of holiday photos and a market of local vendors and festive finds. Warm drinks, vineyard views, and early holiday shopping. A lovely way to ease into the season in wine country.
Temecula Turkey Trot & Food Drive
Thanksgiving morning, Thursday, November 26, 7:00 AM -- Harveston Drive, Temecula
The 13th annual Temecula Turkey Trot & Food Drive returns on Thanksgiving morning with a flat, fast 5K, costume contest, and plenty of community spirit. Runners are asked to bring three non-perishable food items for the Circle of Care Food Pantry, so you can get moving and give back in the same morning.
De Portola Wine Trail Harvest Celebration
Sunday, November 8 -- De Portola Wine Trail, Temecula
A harvest-season favorite along the De Portola Wine Trail, with member wineries pouring seasonal releases and celebrating the year's vintage. A relaxed, scenic way to taste your way through wine country at its most colorful.
Rhythm on the Vine Concert Series
November 2026 -- South Coast Winery Resort & Spa
The vineyard concert series at South Coast Winery keeps the music playing into November. Catch 80's Night with Wang Chung and Thomas Dolby on November 7, then Leonid & Friends on November 13. Great music, vineyard views, and a fun night out in wine country.
Pechanga Pu'éska Mountain Day
Sunday, November 15 -- Pechanga Reservation area, Temecula
A community celebration hosted with the Pechanga Tribe honoring Pu'éska, their sacred mountain, with cultural activities and storytelling. A meaningful opportunity to learn about the deep history of the land we call home.
Menifee
Menifee Trading Post Night Market
Friday, November 27, 5:00-9:00 PM -- Central Park, Menifee
The final Menifee Trading Post of the year brings 80+ local vendors, live music, a beer garden, food trucks, face painting, and kids' activities to Central Park. It is a fantastic way to kick off Thanksgiving weekend and support local makers.
Inland Valley Turkey Trot
Thanksgiving morning, Thursday, November 26 -- Lago Vista Sports Park, Menifee
Menifee's fifth annual Thanksgiving morning race takes place along the flat, scenic courses of Lago Vista Sports Park near the Menifee Lakes. A wonderful family tradition to start Thanksgiving Day on a healthy, happy note.
Menifee Veterans Day Celebration
Wednesday, November 11, 10:00 AM-12:00 PM -- Central Park, Menifee
Menifee honors our nation's veterans with a special ceremony at Central Park featuring veteran recognition, speeches, and a community coming together. All are welcome.
Menifee Trot for a Cause
Saturday, November 21, 9:00 AM-12:00 PM -- Central Park, Menifee
A community fun run and walk at Central Park supporting a great cause. A wonderful way to get moving in the crisp November air and support the Menifee community.
Menifee Foodie Fridays
First Fridays, 5:00-9:00 PM, March through November -- MSJC Menifee Campus
Menifee kicks off each month through the fall with Foodie Fridays at the Mt. San Jacinto College Menifee campus. Local food and drink vendors, live entertainment, and a relaxed low-key way to try something new and support local makers. The season runs March through November, and the November 6 edition is a great way to close it out.
Around Southwest Riverside County
Lake Elsinore Veterans Day Observance
Wednesday, November 11, 9:00 AM -- Lake Elsinore Diamond Stadium
The city of Lake Elsinore gathers at the Diamond to honor those who have served, with a solemn ceremony and a community that shows up every year. A meaningful way to spend the morning of Veterans Day.
Lake Elsinore Tree Lighting
Thursday, December 3, 6:00 PM -- Historic Downtown Main Street
Lake Elsinore's second annual tree lighting brings the community to historic downtown Main Street for music, holiday cheer, and that small-town moment when the lights come on. Kids love it, and so do the grown-ups.
Lake Elsinore Winterfest
Saturday, December 5 -- Historic Downtown Main Street
A festive winter celebration on Main Street with seasonal activities, local vendors, and the holiday spirit in full swing. And all season long, the Mornings on Main market keeps the historic downtown lively for weekend browsing.
Seasonal Highlights
Autumn in Temecula Valley Wine Country
October through November -- Temecula Valley
Harvest season settles over the valley this time of year, and it is worth slowing down for. Vineyard drives, harvest menus, special tastings, and long golden evenings make this one of the most scenic stretches of the year. Many wineries keep autumn celebrations going through the season, so check winery calendars before you go.
Big Horse Corn Maze & Harvest Festival
Final days, through Halloween weekend -- Big Horse Feed & Mercantile, Temecula
Southern California's largest corn maze closes out the season with over 11 acres of twists and turns, plus a pumpkin patch, farm animals, and harvest attractions for all ages. A must-do fall tradition for families in the valley, so grab one last visit before it wraps up.
Headless Horseman Rides & Ghost Tours
Final weekends of October -- Old Town Temecula
As October winds down, Old Town Temecula keeps the spooky season going with candlelit 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 before the holiday season takes over.
Murrieta Halloween Home Decorating Contest
Mid-October through Halloween -- Murrieta citywide
Homes across Murrieta get decked out for the season as part of the city's annual decorating contest, with a map of participating houses posted by the city so you can plan a family evening drive through the neighborhoods. It is one of our favorite ways to see the community come alive this time of year.
Temecula Halloween Home Decorating Display
Late October -- Temecula citywide
The city of Temecula publishes a map of the season's best-decorated homes in late October each year. Load up the kids, cue up some spooky tunes, and cruise the neighborhoods in search of the most creative displays. Friendly, festive, and completely free.
Farmers Market Season Continues Weekly
Year-round -- Murrieta, Temecula & Menifee
Through the fall and into the holidays, the local farmers markets stay busy every week. Old Town Temecula Saturdays, Vail Headquarters Tuesdays, the Promenade Wednesdays, Murrieta's Sunday market at Village Walk Plaza, and Menifee's Cherry Hills market on Fridays. Fresh produce, local honey, artisan bread, and neighbors catching up. See the Farmers Markets section below for full details.
Ice Skating & Winterfest in Wine Country
Mid-November through early January -- Temecula Valley wine country
The valley's holiday ice rinks return for the season. Peltzer Winery opens its 8,400-square-foot outdoor rink with hot cocoa and food trucks from November 19 through January 15, and Winterfest in Wine Country at Galway Downs runs December 4 through January 4 with a nightly lights walk-through, ice skating, a Christmas village, Santa visits, and live music on weekends. Old Town Temecula also brings back its outdoor rink in front of City Hall around mid-December, with dates announced closer to the season. Skating under the vineyard lights is a Southern California twist on a classic winter tradition.
Holiday Wreath Making at Gold Crown Farms
November 21 through December 5 -- Gold Crown Farms, Temecula
Roll up your sleeves and build your own holiday wreath with fresh greens at this working Temecula farm. It is a hands-on, family-friendly way to start decorating for the season and bring a little of wine country home with you.
Want the very latest schedules and any last-minute additions? The official city event calendars at murrietaca.gov, temeculaca.gov, and cityofmenifee.us are the best places to confirm details before you head out, and Visit Temecula Valley keeps the wine country calendar updated all season long.
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 Wreaths & Tree Lighting
The official start of the holiday season in Murrieta. The community gathers at Town Square Park in early December for the annual tree lighting, with wreath displays, live music, local vendors, and Santa photo opportunities. This year's celebration is Saturday, December 5, from 5:00 to 7:30 PM. It has 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: November & December 2026
The holiday season in Southwest Riverside County is truly magical. From Santa's arrival to tree lightings, the Electric Light Parade to holiday markets, there is something for every family. 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, 6:00-9:00 PM -- Pennypickle's Workshop, Old Town Temecula
Santa arrives at his cozy cottage in Old Town Temecula on Friday, November 27, with visits continuing on weekends through December 20. A wonderful family tradition that starts the holiday season the right way.
Peltzer's Very Country Christmas
November 28-29 tree lighting, ice rink through the holidays -- Peltzer Vineyards, Temecula
Peltzer Vineyards celebrates the season with a Christmas tree lighting and Santa visits on November 28 and 29, and its holiday ice rink and warm drinks continue through the season. Ice skating among the vines is a charming wine country tradition.
Callaway Barrel Tree Lighting & Holiday Market
Friday, November 27 & Saturday, November 28 -- Callaway Vineyard & Winery
Callaway kicks off the holiday weekend in wine country with its annual barrel tree lighting and a festive holiday market. Local vendors, seasonal treats, vineyard views, and a cozy kickoff to the season the day after Thanksgiving.
European Holiday Market at Europa Village
Saturday, November 28 & Sunday, November 29 -- Europa Village, Temecula
A charming European-style holiday market at Europa Village with artisan vendors, seasonal treats, and festive surroundings. A lovely way to browse local makers and soak up some old-world holiday charm in wine country.
Temecula Christmas Tree Lighting
Monday, November 30, 7:00-8:30 PM -- Temecula Duck Pond
The annual tree lighting ceremony at the Temecula Duck Pond and Veterans Memorial with festive music, treats, and a visit from Santa. A beautiful way to kick off the holiday season.
Holiday Taste of Old Town
Thursday, December 3, 5:00-8:30 PM -- Old Town Temecula
Restaurants across Old Town Temecula open their doors for a festive food stroll with samples, wine tasting, and live music while you shop and stroll the historic streets. A delicious evening out.
Santa's Electric Light Parade
Friday, December 4, 7:00 PM -- 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.
The Big Red Christmas Market
Friday, December 4 through Sunday, December 6 -- Murrieta Hot Springs Resort
One of the biggest indoor holiday markets in the valley takes over the Murrieta Hot Springs Resort. Local vendors, handmade gifts, seasonal goodies, and festive entertainment make it a wonderful weekend outing for the whole family.
Menifee Christmas Tree Lighting & Holiday Bazaar
Saturday, December 5, 4:00-8:00 PM -- MSJC Menifee Campus
Menifee's Christmas Tree Lighting and Holiday Bazaar returns on Saturday, December 5 at the MSJC Menifee Campus. Holiday shopping, live entertainment, photos with Santa, snow play, and the official lighting of the community tree. One of the most festive evenings on the Menifee calendar.
Menifee Xtreme Light Fight
Late November through mid-December -- Menifee citywide
Menifee's annual holiday home-decorating contest is back. Homes across the city compete in categories like Best Theme, North Pole Neighbor, Inflatable Fun, and the always-beloved Clark Griswold. The city posts a map of entries, so you can cruise the neighborhoods and vote for your favorites. A festive family drive that costs nothing but the hot cocoa.
Santa on Wheels
Tuesday, December 15 & Wednesday, December 16 -- Menifee neighborhoods
Santa makes his rounds through Menifee neighborhoods on December 15 and 16, visiting families and spreading holiday cheer. The city posts the route details as the dates approach, so keep an eye on the community calendar to catch him as he comes through your area.
Murrieta Festival of Wreaths & Tree Lighting
Saturday, December 5, 5:00-7:30 PM -- Town Square Park & Amphitheater, Murrieta
The official start of the holiday season in Murrieta. This year's celebration brings live music, local vendors, Santa photo opportunities, and beautiful wreath displays, all leading up to the city's annual tree lighting. Mark your calendar for Saturday, December 5.
Temecula Chilled Holiday Celebration
Late November through December -- Old Town, wine country & Pechanga
A season-long holiday celebration across Old Town Temecula, wine country, and Pechanga Resort with holiday decor, performances at the Old Town Temecula Community Theater, tastings, a Lighted Car Cruise, and much more. Something festive is happening just about every night of the month.
New Year's Eve Grape Drop
December 31, 6:00-10:00 PM -- Civic Center Quad, Old Town Temecula
Temecula rings in the New Year with its signature celebration at the Civic Center quad. Live entertainment, an East Coast countdown at 9:00 PM, and the iconic illuminated grape drop from the clock tower, with a drone show to close out the season. Wine country's version of the ball drop, and it is wonderful.
A Christmas Carol, The Musical
December 5-13 -- Old Town Temecula Community Theater
The Temecula Valley Players bring the beloved holiday story to life on the Old Town stage with evening and matinee performances. A wonderful way to gather the family and soak up some classic Christmas magic downtown.
Peltzer's Christmas on the Farm
Sunday, December 13, 11:00 AM-7:00 PM -- Peltzer Vineyards, Temecula
A festive farm-style holiday market at Peltzer with 40+ vendors, food and wine, and a visit from Cowboy Santa. Ice skating among the vines, live music, and holiday shopping all in one charming afternoon.
Wreaths Across America
Saturday, December 19 -- Laurel Cemetery, Murrieta Valley Cemetery District
On this national day of remembrance, volunteers lay wreaths on veterans' graves at Laurel Cemetery to honor those who served. It is a quiet, meaningful way to give back during the holiday season. Check the cemetery district's website for ceremony and volunteer details.
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 Trading Post Night Market
4th Friday, 5:00-9:00 PM -- April through November
Central Park, Menifee
Menifee's signature community market at Central Park with local vendors, food trucks, and live music on the fourth Friday of each month, running April through November. Browse local and handmade finds, then stop by the Menifee Valley Farmers Market on Sundays for fresh produce. The final 2026 market is Friday, November 27.
Vail Headquarters Farmers Market
Tuesdays, 9:00 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, 8:00 AM-12:00 PM -- Year-Round
Sun City Civic Association, 26850 Sun City Blvd
A friendly market serving the Sun City and Menifee community with fresh produce, local goods, and a neighborhood atmosphere. Hours can vary with the season, so it is worth checking the city calendar before you go. Free admission.
Cherry Hills Farmers Market
Fridays, 9:00 AM-1:00 PM -- Year-Round
26834 Cherry Hills Blvd, Menifee
A weekly Friday market in south Menifee with fresh produce, local goods, and a friendly neighborhood atmosphere. A perfect stop to stock up on seasonal fruits and vegetables before the weekend.
Menifee Valley Farmers Market
Sundays, 8:30 AM-1:00 PM
Mt. San Jacinto College, Menifee
A Sunday market on the Mt. San Jacinto College Menifee campus with fresh produce and local vendors. A relaxed way to stock up on seasonal fruits and vegetables and support growers from the surrounding area.
Activities for All Ages
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 a well-known launch area for hot air balloon rides in Southern California. 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 keep an eye out for Gaucho Grill, an Argentine steakhouse taking over the historic Old Bank Building in Old Town Temecula. It is one of the openings we are most looking forward to.
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, 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, with Karl Strauss Brewing Company opening its first Temecula tasting room on Winchester Road this year. 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. The LEGO Store, the first in all of Riverside County, opened its doors with a grand-opening celebration in September and is now open for business. 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. CAVA, the Mediterranean fast-casual favorite, is now open at its first Temecula location on Temecula Parkway. Better Buzz Coffee and Ono Hawaiian BBQ are under construction at the former Claim Jumper site on Rancho California Road. Shake Shack is coming to its first Temecula location on Ynez Road, and Rodeo Cafe is planned for Old Town. Karl Strauss Brewing Company opened its first Temecula tasting room on Winchester Road this year, and Habibi Tacos has joined Old Town's dining lineup. La Pe�a Mexican Grill is coming to Jefferson Avenue. And Gaucho Grill, an Argentine steakhouse tucked into a historic bank building in Old Town, is on its way. Tecovas is also bringing its Western wear to Old Town, and Eos Fitness is planning a new 24-hour gym near the corner of Winchester and Margarita.
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. In healthcare, Rady Children's celebrated the grand opening of a new 60,000-square-foot Medical Plaza here, expanding pediatric care close to home. And The Village Core, a mixed-use hub near Butterfield Sage Road and Murrieta Hot Springs Road, is finishing its first phase, with new shops and homes expected through late 2026. On the dining side, Lin's Grand Buffet opened its first California location here, Talia Kitchen is coming to the Murrieta Hot Springs Resort, and Hokkaido Sushi & Ramen just opened its doors at Plaza Las Brisas on Los Alamos Road. Newer local favorites include SOPO K-Grill, Masa Madre, Valley Pizza Kitchen, and Jumunjin.
Menifee Growth & New Openings
Menifee keeps growing, and the dining scene is keeping pace. Recent local favorites include Dave's Hot Chicken and Chronic Tacos, along with newer spots like Kulturas, Timber Ridge Steakhouse, Noodle Mia, and Himalayan Taste on Newport Road. At McCall Square, Starbucks, Chipotle, and Jersey Mike's have opened their doors, Stater Bros. broke ground on its fourth Menifee store there in July with an opening expected about a year later, and Baskin-Robbins is on the way. Richie's Real American Diner is also planning a new dine-in location at Menifee Lakes Plaza. It is a wonderful time to watch this city take shape.
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.