Hearts, History, and Holidays: February Fun for Riverside Families - A Calendar of Events

events
Written By Kelly S

Looking for fun activities for your family in Riverside, California, in February 2026? Here are ideas for local community activities, library storytimes, events led by the Parks and Rec department, and more!


A few housekeeping notes:

  • Putting this list together is a labor of love for me! I try my best to share accurate information, but always recommend you double check with the location hosting the event - look at their web site, social media, and/or give them a call before heading over! I generally try to link the host’s info in the listing, but you can also google Riverside + the name of the event and it’s likely to show up.

  • Do you have a family-friendly event in Riverside to add? Please submit your event here.

  • Are you looking for another month’s event guide? I’m hoping to offer one of these event guides for every month in 2026 (and beyond!) You will be able to access them all 12 months as they are published here.

Fun Activities for Families In and Around Riverside All Month Long

Here are ideas for some activities you could do potentially do anytime in February(depending on the weather):

  • Watch the Winter Olympics! The Opening Ceremonies start on Friday, February 6 and then continue with two weeks of figure skating, curling, hockey, skiing, bobsledding, and more, wrapping up on February 22. We plan to stream the Olympics on Peacock (subscription is included as a free perk through our Walmart+ membership!). The Olympics are such a nice thing to just turn on and enjoy together as a family!

    • Farm House Collective is hosting a watch party on Friday, February 6 at 11am for the Opening Ceremonies, and they will hopefully be playing the Olympics more through the rest of the month on their screens.

  • Celebrate Valentine’s Day with festivity all month long - you can see activities below, and stay tuned for a post from me with even more ideas!

  • Celebrate Black History Month! The city put together a great write-up on things to do locally for Black History Month, including a section on several notable Black Riversiders. (I, for one, didn’t realize that Bobby Bonds - who has a big park named for him near downtown - is the dad of Major League Baseball player Barry Bonds). In addition, here are some of my family’s favorite children’s books to read in honor of Black History Month (and all year long!), and I’d also suggest frequenting local Black-owned businesses too. Here are a few of the events happening this month in Riverside:

  • Celebrate and learn about Lunar New Year, Ramadan, and Ash Wednesday! It’s unusual for these holidays to fall within such a close time span, but this year, Lunar New Year is February 17, Ramadan will likely start on February 17 as well (exact timing will be determined based on moon visibility), and Ash Wednesday is on February 18. Whatever your heritage, it can be meaningful and fun to teach our children about these holidays this month. Here are some ideas:

    • The big Lunar New Year celebration in downtown Riverside already took place at the end of January, but the library is hosting a few smaller events for kids. Here are some ideas for ways you can celebrate at home and appreciate Lunar New Year as we begin the Year of the Horse, and here are some Lunar New Year activities happening around Riverside:

    • Ramadan is a month-long sacred time for Muslims in Riverside and around the world, marked by daytime fasting and observances. In past years, my family has enjoyed reading the children’s book Lailah’s Lunchbox: A Ramadan Story by Reem Faruqi to learn more about this holiday.

    • Ash Wednesday is observed by some Christian churches as the beginning of Lent, the 40 day period of repentance leading up to Easter. (Mardi Gras is historically celebrated the day before as “Fat Tuesday,” the last day for frivolity before this more somber season). Some churches in Riverside will have special Wednesday services that you can attend (kids welcome!) - if desired, there is usually a time during the service where you can receive the mark of a cross on your forehead (or hand) made out of ashes (some churches use last year’s palm branches from Palm Sunday to make the ash). Here’s a list from the Raincross Gazette of last year’s local Ash Wednesday services - I’m guessing they’ll post an updated one for 2026, but this gives you a good start of places to check. Make Room: A Child’s Guide to Lent and Easter is a book we’ve used in our family to teach about Lent and Ash Wednesday.

  • Go on a hike! Thanks to cooler temperatures and green hills, February is one of the best months for hiking around Riverside (as long as it’s not raining!) Check out some family-friendly Riverside hiking trails here. I will say, it’s been so unusually hot the past few weeks - we don’t usually hike if it's above 80 degrees or so, since so many SoCal hikes have no shade - it feels hot, fast!

  • Have fun at the park! February is also a great month for going to the park, since temperatures are cooler than summer and it can be a quick visit after school before it gets too dark.

  • Go to Joshua Tree National Park - one of the wonderful things about living in Riverside is we have a national park just about an hour away! February can be a great time to visit, with cooler temperatures than summertime making it bearable to spend the day here!

  • Go to the snow - keep an eye out for snow days in the mountains! So far we haven’t had much this winter, but February might bring us some snow (I hope!) Oak Glen or Palm Springs Aerial Tramway are the most convenient places for visiting the snow on a day trip from Riverside, in my opinion - you can check out some of my favorite places for visiting the snow here.

Kid-Friendly Activities in Riverside, California, Day by Day

Here is a round up of events and activities happening all month long (this list goes chronologically from February 1-28… keep scrolling for events later in the month!)

Sunday, February 1, 2026

  • First Sundays in Downtown Riverside, 1:00 - 4:00pm. This event happens every month (with different activities every time!) It includes free admission to the Cheech and Riverside Art Museum, along with family-friendly activities at the downtown Main Library, and more! February activities:

    • Main Library 1-4pm

    • DIY Pinhole Camera - California Museum of Photography & Culver Center of the Arts (UCR Arts) 1-4pm, free + open to the public

    • Museum of Riverside: Corner of Main Street and Mission Inn (outdoors) - make buttons commemorating early activists in Riverside’s Black community

    • free admission to The Cheech (12-5pm) and chance to play “Lotería Afrolatina” - a Bingo-like game highlighting notable Afrolatino people

    • free admission to Riverside Art Museum + activity: Join us for live music, hands-on art, and larger-than-life puppets: Valentine’s Heart Animal Art Project with UC Riverside GLUCK Fellows + Meet a Chinese New Year dragon puppet popping up in the museum!

    • Riverside Community Arts Association

  • Free tours at the Heritage House (by CBU) from 12-4pm (every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday). All ages are welcome, in my opinion it’s best for ages 5+ (or a baby in a carrier). Book your tour here.

  • Free outdoor tours at Citrus State Historic Park at 11am and 2pm (every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday). Tours are free, parking is $7 per car and they strictly enforce it.

  • Tyler Galleria Farmer’s Market - 8:30am - 1pm (every Sunday). This farmer’s market is in the parking lot by the Barnes and Noble at the mall. They have a lot more crafts than the other local markets, but also fresh produce and food too.


Monday, February 2, 2026


Tuesday, February 3, 2026


Wednesday, February 4, 2026

  • 10:00am Preschool Storytime at La Sierra Library (every Wednesday at 10am). For more info: Riversideca.gov/library

  • 11:00am Preschool Storytime at Spc. Jesus S. Duran Eastside Library at Lincoln Park (every Wednesday at 11am). For more info: Riversideca.gov/library

  • County of Riverside Farmers Market from 8:30am -1:30pm on the corner of Lemon and 10th Street in Downtown Riverside (every Wednesday). This farmer’s market is much smaller than the one downtown on Saturdays, but it’s nice for getting produce or eating from a food truck.

  • 3:30pm Family Storytime at Ssgt. Salvador J Lara Casa Blanca Library (every Wednesday at 3:30pm). For more info: Riversideca.gov/library

  • 5:00pm Twilight Tales at Main Library (every Wednesday at 5pm). For more info: Riversideca.gov/library

  • 1:30-4:30pm After School Snack + Games N’ More at Woodcrest Library - come for a free snack plus board games, video games, and trivia, for all kids/teens ages 18 (every Wednesday).


Thursday, February 5, 2026


Friday, February 6, 2026

  • 9:30am Walking in Motherhood Riverside Valentine’s Mom Walk - at Arlington Sports Park - coffee available for purchase, snacks + card making activity for kids. RSVP via their Instagram

  • 9:30am Family Storytime at Ameal Moore Nature Center (Every Friday at 9:30am) For more info: Riversideca.gov/library

  • 11am Winter Olympics Opening Ceremony Watch Party at Farm House Collective (free, with food available to purchase).

  • 11am - Memories in the Palm of Your Hand - free Homeschool Days activity at Main Library (Community Room on Ground Floor). “Join us for a memory-mapping drawing workshop, where participants will trace their hands and fill them with symbols that represent meaningful moments in their lives. This thoughtful program will give you a chance to learn about visual communication and symbolism in art.”

  • 11:00am Baby Bee Storytime at Arlington Library (every Friday at 11:00am). For more info: Riversideca.gov/library

  • Free tours at the Heritage House (by CBU) from 12-4pm (every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday). All ages are welcome, in my opinion it’s best for ages 5+ (or a baby in a carrier). Book your tour here.

  • 5:00-8:00pm Valentine’s Party at iPlayology indoor playground in Corona - DJ dance party, decorate a mini cake, make valentine’s, face painting, character meet and greet. More info here!

  • Free outdoor tours at Citrus State Historic Park at 11am and 2pm (every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday). Tours are free, parking is $7 per car and they strictly enforce it.

  • 7pm - Shrek the Musical at RCC. This is a family-friendly musical and is rated G (a bit of potty humor). Kids ages 2-3 welcome at Saturday matinees only, kids ages 4+ welcome to all shows. (No children under 2). Tickets start at $15 per person.

  • 2:30-4:30pm After School Snack + Culinary Creations Class  at Woodcrest Library - come for a free snack plus Culinary Creations Class for all kids/teens ages 18 (every Thursday). Culinary Creations happens from 3-4:30pm and it’s free but PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED! Call them or register on the Woodcrest Library website.

Saturday, February 7, 2026

  • Hidden Valley Nature Center (on the border of Riverside and Norco) is hosting Wonders of the Watershed from 10am to 2pm. We have enjoyed this event in the past! Their description says, “come explore, play, and learn about the amazing wonders within our Santa Ana Watershed! Enjoy hands-on crafts, fun games, and get up close with live animals. The first 100 children to attend will receive a FREE pair of binoculars! Free admission & parking. Food trucks on site. Bring the whole family for a fun-filled day outdoors—you won’t want to miss it!”

  • 9am free Home Depot Kids Workshop: Penguin Mailbox activity (1st Saturday of every month). You can register here and see all the activities for the year here. Projects will go until 12pm, unless they run out of supplies sooner.

  • 10am - 4pm Free General Admission at Southern California Railway Museum in Perris. View exhibits, scavenger hunts, maker stations, games, and more. If you want to ride the train, ages 5 and up need a ticket - it’s $9-13 per person. (every 1st and 3rd Saturday).

  • 8:30am-11:30am - Volunteer Opportunity: Tree Planting at Rutland Park through Love Riverside. Plant trees, pick up trash, clean the playground, do good together.

  • 6-8:30 p.m. Mother Son Bingo Night - Springbrook Clubhouse • 1011 N. Orange Street - $20/couple ($5 additional) - just pay on the day of the event, payable to the "Reid Park Advisory Team". Includes spaghetti bingo, candy bar bingo, and prizes. “Boys are welcome to bring their mother or female role model to this exciting evening.” More info here!

  • 10am-5pm Grand Opening at We Rock the Spectrum Kids’ Gym in Redlands. Open Play, with treats and refreshments provided - $18 per child.

  • 8-10am Meetup at Get Air (Moreno Valley) by NeuroSpicy IE Mamas - check out more info about this group for Autism + Neurodivergent Kids (and their Moms) on Instagram and use their link in bio to register.

  • 1:00-2:00pm Kids’ Graphic Novel Book Club at Cellar Door Bookstore in Mission Grove - this month they’re discussing The Space Cat by Nnedi Okorafor.

  • 8:00-11:00am Volunteer Cleanup with Keep Riverside Clean and Beautiful at Hunter Hobby Park. Volunteer for: Litter cleanups, graffiti abatement, and community greening

  • 9:30am Family Storytime at Main Library (every Saturday at 9:30am). For more info: Riversideca.gov/library

  • 11am Baby Bee Storytime at Orange Terrace Library

  • 11am Babble Tales at Casa Blanca Library (every Saturday at 11am) For more info: Riversideca.gov/library

  • Free tours at the Heritage House (by CBU) from 12-4pm (every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday). All ages are welcome, in my opinion it’s best for ages 5+ (or a baby in a carrier). Book your tour here.

  • Free outdoor tours at Citrus State Historic Park at 11am and 2pm (every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday). Tours are free, parking is $7 per car and they strictly enforce it.

  • STEAM Saturdays: Love Birds - Owls - at the San Bernardino County Museum - 10am-3pm. This museum is in Redlands, but it’s lovely for Riverside families and could be worth a bit of a drive! There is an admission charge for the museum ($5-10/person) or consider getting an annual pass. February’s theme is “love birds” in celebration of National Bird Month. This particular Saturday’s theme is “Owls.”

  • Downtown Riverside Farmer’s Market 8 am - 1 pm on Main Street between 6th and 5th Street. (Every Saturday). This is a lovely farmer’s market with lots of locally grown produce and other food items (we are partial to the yogurt, honey, and bread booths!) You can also walk through the Mission Inn Lobby which is nearby.

  • 2pm and 7pm - Shrek the Musical at RCC. This is a family-friendly musical and is rated G (a bit of potty humor). Kids ages 2-3 welcome at Saturday matinees only, kids ages 4+ welcome to all shows. (No children under 2). Tickets start at $15 per person.


Sunday, February 8, 2026

  • The Super Bowl is happening today! Here’s a list of places that are showing the game, though I’m not sure the kid-friendliness of any of these. Personally, we stay home to watch, and let each person choose a snack to prepare/share with the family. Last year, I also did a kid-friendly version of Squares for my children - you can see it explained here, but basically you give prizes based on the last digits of the score for each quarter (so 4 total prizes). Many people just do money, but I filled in all the boxes with things my children would want - or not want! I intentionally made them group prizes so that all the siblings got the same thing, and it didn’t feel competitive among them. They really loved it! Some ideas (keep in mind you’ll only end up giving out four of these total - one per quarter - in the end).

    • extra movie night

    • double allowance

    • everyone gets to pick a treat next time we’re at Trader Joe’s

    • pick up 10 pieces of trash

    • $1 each

    • stay up an hour past bedtime

    • 20 pushups

    • one hour extra screen time

    • Chuck E Cheese

    • Panera Bread

    • go to bed 1 hour early

    • ice cream sundae night

    • pay me $1

  • Free train rides by Riverside Live Steamers at Hunter Hobby Park - 10am-3pm (every 2nd and 4th Sunday of the month). This is a fun little ride through the park (near UCR). No cost to ride, but donations appreciated!

  • Free tours at the Heritage House (by CBU) from 12-4pm (every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday). All ages are welcome, in my opinion it’s best for ages 5+ (or a baby in a carrier). Book your tour here.

  • Free outdoor tours at Citrus State Historic Park at 11am and 2pm (every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday). Tours are free, parking is $7 per car and they strictly enforce it.

  • Tyler Galleria Farmer’s Market - 8:30am - 1pm (every Sunday). This farmer’s market is in the parking lot by the Barnes and Noble at the mall. They have a lot more crafts than the other local markets, but also fresh produce and food too.

  • 2pm - Shrek the Musical at RCC. This is a family-friendly musical and is rated G (a bit of potty humor). Kids ages 2-3 welcome at Saturday matinees only, kids ages 4+ welcome to all shows. (No children under 2). Tickets start at $15 per person.

  • 4pm Teen Craft: Sweetheart Bag Charms at Orange Terrace Library. (Then come back for the Teen Tote Bag program on February 14 at 3pm at Orange Terrace!)


Monday, February 9, 2026


Tuesday, February 10, 2026


Wednesday, February 11, 2026

  • 5:00-7:00pm Palentine’s Day event at Nichols Park - free for all ages. “Come celebrate friendship at our Palentine’s Day event! This special event is all about honoring the people who make our lives brighter - our pals. Enjoy fun performances, games, crafts, and treats while spending time with friends old and new. Whether you come with your bestie, your family, or on your own, this program is a great way to share kindness, laughter, and connection.”

  • 10:00am Preschool Storytime at La Sierra Library (every Wednesday at 10am). For more info: Riversideca.gov/library

  • 11:00am Preschool Storytime at Spc. Jesus S. Duran Eastside Library at Lincoln Park (every Wednesday at 11am). For more info: Riversideca.gov/library

  • County of Riverside Farmers Market from 8:30am -1:30pm on the corner of Lemon and 10th Street in Downtown Riverside (every Wednesday). This farmer’s market is much smaller than the one downtown on Saturdays, but it’s nice for getting produce or eating from a food truck.

  • 2:00pm Valentine’s Play Date at We Rock the Spectrum Redlands by NeuroSpicy IE Mamas - check out more info about this group for Autism + Neurodivergent Kids (and their Moms) on Instagram and use their link in bio to register.

  • 3:30pm Family Storytime at Ssgt. Salvador J Lara Casa Blanca Library (every Wednesday at 3:30pm). For more info: Riversideca.gov/library

  • 5:00pm Twilight Tales at Main Library (every Wednesday at 5pm). For more info: Riversideca.gov/library

  • 1:30-4:30pm After School Snack + Games N’ More at Woodcrest Library - come for a free snack plus board games, video games, and trivia, for all kids/teens ages 18 (every Wednesday).

  • 10:00 AM–11:00 AM — Valentine’s Day STEAM Lab at Eastside Library, children

  • 11:00 AM–12:00 PM — Valentine’s Day Storytime at Eastside Library, children & families

  • 4:00–5:00 PM — Mardi Gras Masks at Marcy Library, children & families


    Thursday, February 12, 2026

Today some locations are closed to celebrate Lincoln’s Birthday. I believe the City of Riverside and the Riverside Public Library are open, but the County Library is closed.

  • 4:00-5:30 Sign and Shine Story Time - An American Sign Language Experience - at Riverside Main Library (in the downstairs community room). Registration required. 4:00-4:30 arrival, 4:30-5:00 Story and ASL Rhymes, 5-5:30 Craft Time

  • 10am-12pm Moreno Valley Mamas Toddler Time Palentine’s Party at Get Air in Moreno Valley. (for jumpers 46” and shorter and their parents/guardians). Toddler Time ticket required. See Moreno Valley Mamas Instagram for more info.

  • 9:30am Baby Bee Storytime at Main Library (every Thursday at 9:30am). For more info: Riversideca.gov/library

  • 11:00am Bilingual Storytime at Arlanza Library (every Thursday at 11:00am). For more info: Riversideca.gov/library

  • 11:00am Family Storytime at Orange Terrace Library (every Thursday at 11:00am). For more info: Riversideca.gov/library

  • 11:00am Family Storytime at Spc. Jesus S. Duran Eastside Library at Lincoln Park (every Thursday at 11:00am). For more info: Riversideca.gov/library

  • 5:00-7:00pm Valentine’s Event at Bryant Park - free for all ages. Roses are red, violets are blue, candy is sweet and you are too when attending the Parks and Rec department Valentine’s Day events! Music, refreshments, keepsake photos, games, and arts and crafts. Additional food and games available for purchase.

  • 11:00 AM–12:00 PM — Bilingual Storytime: Friendship Day at Arlanza Library, children & families

  • 4:00–5:00 PM — Valloween Celebration at Marcy Library, teens & adults


Friday, February 13, 2026

  • Participate as a family in the Great Backyard Bird Count (February 13-16). This is a global event where people from around the world go outside for at least 15 minutes and notice the birds around you (there is even an app called Merlin Bird ID that can help you figure out what birds they are!) Then you’ll submit them online and help scientists know what birds are in what areas around the world. You can use your own yard/porch, or go to a park or nature area as a family.

  • 9:30am Family Storytime at Ameal Moore Nature Center (Every Friday at 9:30am) For more info: Riversideca.gov/library

  • 11:00am Baby Bee Storytime at Arlington Library (every Friday at 11:00am). For more info: Riversideca.gov/library

  • 3pm Valentine’s Day Movie at Highgrove Library - candy provided, family friendly movie

  • Free tours at the Heritage House (by CBU) from 12-4pm (every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday). All ages are welcome, in my opinion it’s best for ages 5+ (or a baby in a carrier). Book your tour here.

  • Free outdoor tours at Citrus State Historic Park at 11am and 2pm (every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday). Tours are free, parking is $7 per car and they strictly enforce it.

  • 7pm - Shrek the Musical at RCC. This is a family-friendly musical and is rated G (a bit of potty humor). Kids ages 2-3 welcome at Saturday matinees only, kids ages 4+ welcome to all shows. (No children under 2). Tickets start at $15 per person.

  • 2:30-4:30pm After School Snack + Culinary Creations Class  at Woodcrest Library - come for a free snack plus Culinary Creations Class for all kids/teens ages 18 (every Thursday). Culinary Creations happens from 3-4:30pm and it’s free but PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED! Call them or register on the Woodcrest Library website.

  • 4:00-6:00 pm TEENS: Fresca Flow and Creative Glow - free, ages 12-17 at Johnny Sotelo Youth Opportunity Center. “This fun FREE event is perfect for teens looking to unleash their creativity while celebrating love and friendship. Enjoy a lively atmosphere filled with art, music, and pain a special Valentine’s themed masterpiece. All supplies will be provided - just bring your creativity and a friend!”

  • 7am - 6pm School’s Out Camp in a Day Looking for child care for your child for their day off? Hunt Park offers this one day activity for ages 5-12. It costs $29 per day (or $43.50 if you’re not a Riverside resident.) They do crafts, indoor and outdoor activities, and more. Send your child with a sack lunch, two snacks, and a refillable water bottle.


Saturday, February 14, 2026

Happy Valentine’s Day!

  • 10am - 5pm The 46th Annual Black History Expo and Parade, "A Salute to Education" features a parade and over 40 different vendors offering food, info booths, clothing, and a stage showcasing local entertainment. Free. Located in Downtown Riverside at 3900 Main Street (outside of City Hall)

  • 12:00 pm - 4:00 pm Valentine’s Day Activity at Heritage House - learn how Victorians celebrated Valentine’s Day. One of the Heritage House docents will be in character as Milton Hershey (who started the Hershey company!) Make a valentine and enjoy time in their gardens.  

  • 9:30am Family Storytime at Main Library (every Saturday at 9:30am). For more info: Riversideca.gov/library

  • 11am Babble Tales at Casa Blanca Library (every Saturday at 11am) For more info: Riversideca.gov/library

  • 11am JC Penney Kid Zone (at Tyler Mall) - free Valentine’s Hedgehog Magnet Activity, while supplies last

  • 2 and 7pm - Shrek the Musical at RCC. This is a family-friendly musical and is rated G (a bit of potty humor). Kids ages 2-3 welcome at Saturday matinees only, kids ages 4+ welcome to all shows. (No children under 2). Tickets start at $15 per person.

  • Participate as a family in the Great Backyard Bird Count (February 13-16). This is a global event where people from around the world go outside for at least 15 minutes and notice the birds around you (there is even an app called Merlin Bird ID that can help you figure out what birds they are!) Then you’ll submit them online and help scientists know what birds are in what areas around the world. You can use your own yard/porch, or go to a park or nature area as a family.

  • 3pm Teens: Galentine Tote Bag Painting (adults welcome too) at Orange Terrace Library

  • Free tours at the Heritage House (by CBU) from 12-4pm (every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday). All ages are welcome, in my opinion it’s best for ages 5+ (or a baby in a carrier). Book your tour here.

  • Free outdoor tours at Citrus State Historic Park at 11am and 2pm (every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday). Tours are free, parking is $7 per car and they strictly enforce it.

  • STEAM Saturdays: Love Birds - Owls - at the San Bernardino County Museum - 10am-3pm. This museum is in Redlands, but it’s lovely for Riverside families and could be worth a bit of a drive! There is an admission charge for the museum ($5-10/person) or consider getting an annual pass. February’s theme is “love birds” in celebration of National Bird Month. This particular Saturday’s theme is “Bird Books.”

  • STEAM Outdoors: Stone Fruit at the San Bernardino County Museum. Space is limited for this monthly hands-on program, with sessions at 10:30 and 11:30. My son took a nature class taught by the host for this program, Gloria from Sprout and Blossom, and really enjoyed it! This museum is in Redlands, but it’s lovely for Riverside families and could be worth a bit of a drive! There is an admission charge for the museum ($5-10/person) or consider getting an annual pass. .”

  • Downtown Riverside Farmer’s Market 8 am - 1 pm on Main Street between 6th and 5th Street. (Every Saturday). This is a lovely farmer’s market with lots of locally grown produce and other food items (we are partial to the yogurt, honey, and bread booths!) You can also walk through the Mission Inn Lobby which is nearby.


Sunday, February 15, 2026

  • Participate as a family in the Great Backyard Bird Count (February 13-16). This is a global event where people from around the world go outside for at least 15 minutes and notice the birds around you (there is even an app called Merlin Bird ID that can help you figure out what birds they are!) Then you’ll submit them online and help scientists know what birds are in what areas around the world. You can use your own yard/porch, or go to a park or nature area as a family.

  • Free tours at the Heritage House (by CBU) from 12-4pm (every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday). All ages are welcome, in my opinion it’s best for ages 5+ (or a baby in a carrier). Book your tour here.

  • Free outdoor tours at Citrus State Historic Park at 11am and 2pm (every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday). Tours are free, parking is $7 per car and they strictly enforce it.

  • Tyler Galleria Farmer’s Market - 8:30am - 1pm (every Sunday). This farmer’s market is in the parking lot by the Barnes and Noble at the mall. They have a lot more crafts than the other local markets, but also fresh produce and food too.

  • 10:00–11:00 AM — Lunar New Year Calligraphy Activity at Eastside Library, all ages

  • 3:00–5:00 PM — Sunday Movie Matinee at La Sierra Library, all ages


Monday, February 16, 2026

President’s Day - libraries and city services closed.

  • Participate as a family in the Great Backyard Bird Count (February 13-16). This is a global event where people from around the world go outside for at least 15 minutes and notice the birds around you (there is even an app called Merlin Bird ID that can help you figure out what birds they are!) Then you’ll submit them online and help scientists know what birds are in what areas around the world. You can use your own yard/porch, or go to a park or nature area as a family.


Tuesday, February 17, 2026

  • Lunar New Year - Happy New Year! Today marks the Lunar New Year, celebrated by families in Riverside, in many Asian countries, and around the world! Riverside hosted a big Lunar New Year event back in January (not sure why it was so early?) but here are some ideas for ways you can celebrate at home and appreciate this holiday, whatever your heritage! (See the top of this page for some more Lunar New Year activities happening this month in Riverside).

  • Ramadan begins - the month-long religious observance important to Muslims in Riverside and around the world - is expected to begin today (the precise date has to do with the visibility of the moon, so it could be shifted a day or so). Ramadan Mubarak (Blessed Ramadan) to those who celebrate! In past years, my family has enjoyed reading the children’s book Lailah’s Lunchbox: A Ramadan Story by Reem Faruqi to learn more about this holiday.

  • 10am-12pm Lego Club at Orange Terrace Library (every Tuesday and Friday). Legos are provided or you may bring your own. Intended for children and families.

  • ABCs & 123s at Moreno Valley Library - Main Branch “Join us for fun learning activities designed for preschool-aged children (ages 3 to 5) to build a foundation for reading readiness.” Space is limited, sessions at 10am and 11am. (every Tuesday)

  • 1:00-2:00 pm Bilingual Storytime at Woodcrest Library - “stories, music, crafts, sensory-friendly activities, and more! Ages 0-5”. (Every Tuesday)

  • 2:30-4:30pm After School Snack + Art Lab at Woodcrest Library - come for a free snack plus art activity, for all kids/teens ages 18 (every Tuesday). Art Lab takes place 3-4:30pm.

  • 6:00pm Free Family Movie Night at Farmhouse Collective. This cute, popular outdoor food hall hosts a lot of fun free events, including an outdoor family movie night every Tuesday night this month! This week they’re showing Paddington 2 (my family loves this movie!) There is food available for purchase.

  • note: City of Riverside Public Libraries are closed today due to President’s Day (since the library is usually closed on Mondays, when there is a holiday on Monday, they’re usually closed Tuesdays too).


Wednesday, February 18, 2026

  • 2:00–5:00 PM — Family STEAM Day 2026 at Arlanza Library, free hands-on STEAM activities for all ages — explore science, technology, engineering, art, and math with fun projects that emphasize sustainability and conservation.

  • 10:00am Preschool Storytime at La Sierra Library (every Wednesday at 10am). For more info: Riversideca.gov/library

  • 11:00am Preschool Storytime at Spc. Jesus S. Duran Eastside Library at Lincoln Park (every Wednesday at 11am). For more info: Riversideca.gov/library

  • County of Riverside Farmers Market from 8:30am -1:30pm on the corner of Lemon and 10th Street in Downtown Riverside (every Wednesday). This farmer’s market is much smaller than the one downtown on Saturdays, but it’s nice for getting produce or eating from a food truck.

  • 3:30pm Family Storytime at Ssgt. Salvador J Lara Casa Blanca Library (every Wednesday at 3:30pm). For more info: Riversideca.gov/library

  • 5:00pm Twilight Tales at Main Library (every Wednesday at 5pm). For more info: Riversideca.gov/library

  • 1:30-4:30pm After School Snack + Games N’ More at Woodcrest Library - come for a free snack plus board games, video games, and trivia, for all kids/teens ages 18 (every Wednesday).


Thursday, February 19, 2026

  • 9:30am Baby Bee Storytime at Main Library (every Thursday at 9:30am). For more info: Riversideca.gov/library

  • 11:00am Bilingual Storytime at Arlanza Library (every Thursday at 11:00am). For more info: Riversideca.gov/library

  • 11:00am Family Storytime at Orange Terrace Library (every Thursday at 11:00am). This week’s story time focuses on Black History Month. For more info: Riversideca.gov/library

  • 11:00am Family Storytime at Spc. Jesus S. Duran Eastside Library at Lincoln Park (every Thursday at 11:00am). For more info: Riversideca.gov/library

  • 11am Read for the Record Storytime at Arlington Library- Read for the Record is a nationwide event celebrating early literacy (this will be happening across all 8 city library branches this month, I believe they’re reading the same book - See Marcus Grow - every time).

  • 2:30-4:30pm After School Snack + STREAM Makerspace  at Woodcrest Library - come for a free snack plus STREAM Makerspace, for all kids/teens ages 18 (every Thursday). STREAM happens from 3-4:30pm.


Friday, February 20, 2026


Saturday, February 21, 2026

  • 11am Pokemon Day at Main Library in Downtown Riverside

  • The annual Riverside Dickens Festival takes place today and tomorrow at White Park in Downtown Riverside. Think: historical re-enactors dressed up like they’re in A Christmas Carol or Oliver Twist, vendors, and more. Tickets are required - $20 for adults and $5 for kids 6-12 (free for 5 and under). You can see a general schedule here and also see more info about the Children’s Tea Presented by Pickett Corner & Oliver’s Alley, included in the price of admission to the festival.

  • 10am-1pm Birdhouse - free Lowe’s Kids’ Club workshop- registration required. Lowe’s hosts these monthly events, offering kids a chance to do some building! Be sure you sign up ahead of time. The project for February 2026 is building a birdhouse.

  • Volunteer Opportunity through IE Waterkeeper: Native Planting at Hidden Valley Nature Center - 9-11am. (I’m a little puzzled over whether this is a Native Planting at Hidden Valley or a trash pickup at Martha MacLean. Check with IE Waterkeeper for the final word if you want to go!) All ages welcome, under 18 need a parent/guardian to attend too. Be sure you sign up online here.

  • 9:00-12:00pm Volunteer Opportunity at Citrus State Park. Help clean up the groves in advance of next month’s citrus festival. Check in @ 8:30am, kids under 18 welcome but must have an adult too. Wear comfortable clothes, shoes, and bring gardening gloves!

  • 10am - 4pm Free General Admission at Southern California Railway Museum in Perris. View exhibits, scavenger hunts, maker stations, games, and more. If you want to ride the train, ages 5 and up need a ticket - it’s $9-13 per person. (every 1st and 3rd Saturday).

  • 4pm Teens: Hands on Science: DIY DNA at Arlington Library For more info: Riversideca.gov/library

  • 9:30am Family Storytime at Main Library (every Saturday at 9:30am). For more info: Riversideca.gov/library

  • 11am Babble Tales at Casa Blanca Library (every Saturday at 11am) For more info: Riversideca.gov/library

  • Free tours at the Heritage House (by CBU) from 12-4pm (every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday). All ages are welcome, in my opinion it’s best for ages 5+ (or a baby in a carrier). Book your tour here.

  • Free outdoor tours at Citrus State Historic Park at 11am and 2pm (every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday). Tours are free, parking is $7 per car and they strictly enforce it.

  • STEAM Saturdays: Love Birds - Bird Puzzles - at the San Bernardino County Museum - 10am-3pm. This museum is in Redlands, but it’s lovely for Riverside families and could be worth a bit of a drive! There is an admission charge for the museum ($5-10/person) or consider getting an annual pass. February’s theme is “love birds” in celebration of National Bird Month. This particular Saturday’s theme is “Bird Puzzles.”

  • Downtown Riverside Farmer’s Market 8 am - 1 pm on Main Street between 6th and 5th Street. (Every Saturday). This is a lovely farmer’s market with lots of locally grown produce and other food items (we are partial to the yogurt, honey, and bread booths!) You can also walk through the Mission Inn Lobby which is nearby.

  • 2:00–4:00 PM — Family Movie Matinee: Lilo & Stitch at Arlanza Library, all ages


Sunday, February 22, 2026


Monday, February 23, 2026


Tuesday, February 24, 2026

  • 9:30am Preschool Storytime at Main Library (every Tuesday at 9:30am). For more info: Riversideca.gov/library

  • 10am-12pm Lego Club at Orange Terrace Library (every Tuesday and Friday). Legos are provided or you may bring your own. Intended for children and families.

  • 11:00am Family Storytime at Marcy Library (every Tuesday at 11am). For more info: Riversideca.gov/library Read for the Record Storytime Read for the Record is a nationwide event celebrating early literacy (this will be happening across all 8 city library branches this month, I believe they’re reading the same book - See Marcus Grow - every time).

  • 11am Toddler Play at Arlanza Library (every Tuesday at 11am)

  • ABCs & 123s at Moreno Valley Library - Main Branch “Join us for fun learning activities designed for preschool-aged children (ages 3 to 5) to build a foundation for reading readiness.” Space is limited, sessions at 10am and 11am. (every Tuesday)

  • 1:00-2:00 pm Bilingual Storytime at Woodcrest Library - “stories, music, crafts, sensory-friendly activities, and more! Ages 0-5”. (Every Tuesday)

  • 2:30-4:30pm After School Snack + Art Lab at Woodcrest Library - come for a free snack plus art activity, for all kids/teens ages 18 (every Tuesday). Art Lab takes place 3-4:30pm.

  • 6:00pm Free Family Movie Night at Farmhouse Collective. This cute, popular outdoor food hall hosts a lot of fun free events, including an outdoor family movie night every Tuesday night this month! This week they’re showing Frozen 2. There is food available for purchase.


Wednesday, February 25, 2026

  • 10:00am Preschool Storytime at La Sierra Library (every Wednesday at 10am). For more info: Riversideca.gov/library

  • 11:00am Preschool Storytime at Spc. Jesus S. Duran Eastside Library at Lincoln Park (every Wednesday at 11am). For more info: Riversideca.gov/library

  • 11am at La Sierra Library and 3:30pm at Casa Blanca Library Read for the Record Storytime Read for the Record is a nationwide event celebrating early literacy (this will be happening across all 8 city library branches this month, I believe they’re reading the same book - See Marcus Grow - every time).

  • County of Riverside Farmers Market from 8:30am -1:30pm on the corner of Lemon and 10th Street in Downtown Riverside (every Wednesday). This farmer’s market is much smaller than the one downtown on Saturdays, but it’s nice for getting produce or eating from a food truck.

  • 3:30pm Family Storytime at Ssgt. Salvador J Lara Casa Blanca Library (every Wednesday at 3:30pm). For more info: Riversideca.gov/library - Read for the Record Storytime - see above

  • 5:00pm Twilight Tales at Main Library (every Wednesday at 5pm). For more info: Riversideca.gov/library Read for the Record Storytime - see above

  • 1:30-4:30pm After School Snack + Games N’ More at Woodcrest Library - come for a free snack plus board games, video games, and trivia, for all kids/teens ages 18 (every Wednesday).


Thursday, February 26, 2026

  • 9:30am Baby Bee Storytime at Main Library (every Thursday at 9:30am). For more info: Riversideca.gov/library

  • 11:00am Bilingual Storytime at Arlanza Library (every Thursday at 11:00am). For more info: Riversideca.gov/library Read for the Record Storytime Read for the Record is a nationwide event celebrating early literacy (this will be happening across all 8 city library branches this month, I believe they’re reading the same book - See Marcus Grow - every time).

  • 11:00am Family Storytime at Orange Terrace Library (every Thursday at 11:00am). For more info: Riversideca.gov/library Read for the Record Storytime - see above

  • 11:00am Family Storytime at Spc. Jesus S. Duran Eastside Library at Lincoln Park (every Thursday at 11:00am). For more info: Riversideca.gov/library Read for the Record Storytime - see above

  • 2:30-4:30pm After School Snack + STREAM Makerspace  at Woodcrest Library - come for a free snack plus STREAM Makerspace, for all kids/teens ages 18 (every Thursday). STREAM happens from 3-4:30pm.

  • 4:00–5:00 PM — Lego Game Day at Marcy Library, children & families


Friday, February 27, 2026


Saturday, February 28, 2026

  • Little Land Use Learners 10am at Land Use Learning Center (by Mt. Rubidoux). This is a free two-hour children’s nature program held on the last Saturday of every month, featuring story time, crafts, nature walks, and more. This month’s theme is: Our Blue Planet.

  • 1pm James and the Giant Peach Jr by ACT Out Enrichment at the Box Theatre in downtown Riverside. Tickets $15 per person, buy online. This is a family-friendly production, performed by local children/teens.

  • 8:30am - 3:00pm Riverside Lawn Bowling 100th Anniversary at Fairmount Park (4020 Bowling Green Dr) - organized games and light refreshments for all ages as Riverside Lawn Bowling celebrates 100 years!

  • 9:30am Family Storytime at Main Library (every Saturday at 9:30am). For more info: Riversideca.gov/library

  • 11am Babble Tales at Casa Blanca Library (every Saturday at 11am) For more info: Riversideca.gov/library

  • Free tours at the Heritage House (by CBU) from 12-4pm (every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday). All ages are welcome, in my opinion it’s best for ages 5+ (or a baby in a carrier). Book your tour here.

  • Free outdoor tours at Citrus State Historic Park at 11am and 2pm (every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday). Tours are free, parking is $7 per car and they strictly enforce it.

  • STEAM Saturdays: Love Birds - Bird Kites - at the San Bernardino County Museum - 10am-3pm. This museum is in Redlands, but it’s lovely for Riverside families and could be worth a bit of a drive! There is an admission charge for the museum ($5-10/person) or consider getting an annual pass. February’s theme is “love birds” in celebration of National Bird Month. This particular Saturday’s theme is “Bird Kites.”

  • Downtown Riverside Farmer’s Market 8 am - 1 pm on Main Street between 6th and 5th Street. (Every Saturday). This is a lovely farmer’s market with lots of locally grown produce and other food items (we are partial to the yogurt, honey, and bread booths!) You can also walk through the Mission Inn Lobby which is nearby.


Hope you have a wonderful February 2026 here in Riverside, California!

Kelly S
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