5 Best Performing Arts in The Inland Empire, California

For over three decades, The Mission Inn has been hosting this holiday tradition with lighting displays, decor, activities, and attractions along Main Street. The Inn installs more than 5 million Christmas lights for the event, which runs mid-November through early January.  

The academy provides professional training for gifted arts students and presents summer workshops "for artists of all ages" in dance, music, Native American arts, theater, visual arts, and writing. Free summer concerts and theater productions feature students and professional performers.

In mid-August, music fans assemble at the Idyllwild Arts Academy for this two-day festival, a benefit for the school. Performances by students and recognized jazz artists are scheduled all day and into the evening.

An entertainment complex that holds two venues, the Old Town Theater offers a full season of performances ranging from classical ballet and symphonies to jazz. The Temecula Valley Players offer Broadway musicals through June. At the adjacent, intimate Merc theater you can hear small jazz and country groups.

On Tuesday and Friday night from late June through August the 6,000-seat outdoor amphitheater in juniper-shaded Smiley Park hosts ballet, opera, and symphony performances as well as jazz and big band concerts. Pack a picnic and enjoy dinner under the stars. All performances start at 8:15 and are free.