Summer 2026 in Beaumont and the San Gorgonio Pass wrapped up in style. The 22nd Annual Lavender Festival at 123 Farm in Cherry Valley closed July 19 after a two-month season, the Redlands Bowl's 103rd season ended August 14 with the Fireworks Finale, the inaugural Banning Museum Summer Bash debuted August 15, the brand-new Sourdough Bread Festival at 123 Farm concluded September 7 after two weekends of artisan bread, and Stagecoach Days wrapped up in Banning on September 12. All of summer's signature events have now concluded for 2026. Now the fall season takes center stage: Lavender Nights at 123 Farm is open through October 25 with over half a million lights, the Hispanic Heritage and Michelada Celebration wrapped up its third year on September 19 at the Chatigny Center, the Downtown Banning Art Walk and King Ludwig's Oktoberfest wrapped up their 2026 editions the weekend of September 25-27, the Cherry Valley Fall Festival and Morongo Rodeo celebrated October 3 and have wrapped up, the City of Beaumont's free Trunk or Treat fills Beaumont Sports Park on October 31, the Joshua Tree Music Festival is October 8-11, and the 11th annual Joshua Tree Night Sky Festival is October 9-10. Morongo Casino's fall concert series runs October 9 through December 5 with Blues Traveler, UB40, and The Isley Brothers headlining. Greater Palm Springs Pride is November 6-8, Christmas Nights at 123 Farm runs November 5 through January 3, the 33rd Annual Winterfest is December 4, and the Blizzard Bash and Holiday Light Parade is December 12. Whether you're a longtime Pass Area resident or just discovering the community, this guide captured the best of the summer season, and you'll find plenty more to explore in the live Events Calendar and the Fall 2026 Pass Area Guide. Updated September 28, 2026.
This summer 2026 guide has passed. As of September 30, 2026, the season's events have all wrapped up.
Summer 2026 has wrapped up, and the fall season is now in full swing across the Pass Area. For what's happening right now, check out the Fall 2026 Pass Area guide and the live events calendar.
Late Summer 2026 at a Glance -- Updated September 24
Summer Concerts in the Park free at Stewart Park Saturdays at 7 PM · Lavender Nights NOW OPEN at 123 Farm through Oct 25 · Sourdough Bread Festival Aug 29-Sep 7 at 123 Farm · Stagecoach Days wrapped up Sep 12 in Banning · Lucha Libre Sep 19 at Chatigny Center · King Ludwig's Oktoberfest Sep 25-27 at Noble Creek Park · Cherry Valley Fall Festival Oct 3 (wrapped up) · Joshua Tree Music Festival Oct 8-11 · Night Sky Festival Oct 9-10 · Palm Springs Pride Nov 6-8 · Winterfest Dec 4 · Blizzard Bash Dec 12.
Summer events and festivals
The Pass Area comes alive every summer with community festivals, free concerts, outdoor markets, and family-friendly events. Here's what's happening in late July 2026 and beyond.
Blue Zones Cooking Demo
A free Blue Zones Project cooking demonstration took place July 28 showcasing healthy, plant-forward eating. Part of the Riverside County Blue Zones expansion in the Pass Area. Free and open to the community.
National Night Out @ Beaumont Nights
The final Beaumont Nights of the summer with a special National Night Out edition -- meet Beaumont firefighters, police officers, and first responders with fire trucks, police vehicles, and equipment on display. Family activities, food vendors, and live entertainment. This event has concluded for 2026.
Summer Concerts in the Park
Don't MissFree live music every Saturday at 7:00 PM at Stewart Park. Bring chairs and blankets. Food trucks and a beer/wine booth available. A beloved summer tradition for the Pass Area.
Back-To-School Celebration
A free district-wide celebration kicking off the 2026-27 school year with family fun, school resources, community partners, health services, giveaways, and more. Hosted by Banning Unified School District. This event has concluded for 2026.
Pass Area Job Fair
A successful community job fair connecting Pass Area job seekers with employers from across Riverside County. Multiple industries including healthcare, logistics, retail, education, and hospitality. This event has concluded for 2026.
Banning Museum Summer Bash
The inaugural Summer Bash at the historic Banning Museum was a wonderful success -- an evening of live music, dancing, and community celebration. This brand-new event for the Pass Area debuted on August 15, 2026. Free admission. Watch for future Banning Museum events in 2027.
Lavender Nights at 123 Farm
Don't MissOver half a million lights illuminate the lavender fields and olive groves for this magical evening experience. Outdoor grilling, lavender cocktails, live music, marketplace shopping, and a luminous wonderland running Wednesday through Monday. One of the most unique seasonal attractions in the Pass Area.
BBQ in the Pass
Don't MissA brand-new community event debuting at Noble Creek Park -- live music, a barbecue cook-off, food vendors, and family-friendly activities. Hosted by the Beaumont-Cherry Valley Recreation and Park District. A great way to close out summer with good food and community.
Beaumont City Council Meeting
Regular Beaumont City Council meetings where community members can participate in local governance and hear updates on city projects. The August 18 meeting follows the Planning Commission's August 12 session. Agendas are posted on the City of Beaumont website.
Morongo Casino Summer Concerts
Morongo Casino in Cabazon -- just 10 minutes west on I-10 -- hosts concerts and entertainment throughout the summer. Aria featuring John Payne (Aug 21) and La Fiera De Ojinaga (Aug 7) have concluded. The Beaumont City Council meets September 1 if you're looking for local civic engagement. Check morongocasinoresort.com for tickets and additional dates.
Movies in the Park
Free outdoor movie nights under the stars at Beaumont Sports Park and Noble Creek Regional Park throughout the summer. Bring blankets, bring the kids, and enjoy free family entertainment on the big screen.
Gilman Ranch Summer Activities
Gold Panning sessions, Scavenger Hunts, and Guided Nature Hikes at this Riverside County Regional Park venue in Banning. A fun, free way to explore the ranch's trails and historic structures.
Friday Food Roundup
Calimesa's monthly community evening -- live music, food trucks, cold drinks, and family activities on the second Friday of each month. A relaxed, family-friendly way to kick off the weekend.
Evenings in the Park Concert Series
Free outdoor concerts at Repplier Park in Banning on select dates throughout the summer. Check the City of Banning events page for the schedule.
Stagecoach Days
Banning's beloved annual festival since 1957 -- a PRCA rodeo, live concerts, a Saturday parade, carnival, beer garden, kids zone, Mutton Bustin', and community activities celebrating the city's stagecoach heritage. One of the longest-running traditions in the Pass Area.
King Ludwig's Oktoberfest
A beloved Pass Area tradition -- three days of German food, beer, live music, dancing, and community festivity. King Ludwig's Oktoberfest has been running for 36 years. The 2026 edition wrapped up September 27.
Sourdough Bread Festival at 123 Farm
Don't MissA brand-new festival celebrating artisan sourdough at 123 Farm -- wood-fired pizzas, fresh donuts, handmade pasta, warm bread bowls, artisan loaves, and ancient grain tastings. Takes place over two weekends alongside the Lavender Nights evening experience. A delicious new addition to the Pass Area festival season.
Cherry Valley Fall Festival
A family-friendly fall celebration featuring vendors, Oktoberfest games, a beer garden, ghost tour hay rides through historic Cherry Valley, live music, and pumpkin carving for the kids. Hosted by the Cherry Valley community.
Outdoor adventures in the Pass Area
The San Gorgonio Pass sits between the San Bernardino and San Jacinto mountain ranges, giving you access to canyons, trails, open spaces, and wildlife preserves — all within minutes of downtown Beaumont. Here's where to get outside this summer.
Wildwood Canyon State Park
Over 1,000 acres of multi-use trails for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking through native canyon terrain. Near Yucaipa, accessible via Oak Glen Road from Beaumont. Features waterfalls, scenic views, and historic ranch houses. Day-use only, sunrise to sunset. Dogs on leash.
Go early in the morning to beat the heat — summer temps in the canyon can reach the 90s by midday.
Noble Creek Regional Park
A major 390-acre regional park at 390 Oak Valley Pkwy with sports fields, trails, a dog park, skate park, and community programs. RV camping available with 49 sites. Hosts Movies in the Park and community events all summer.
The dog park is separated into small and large dog areas — bring water for your pup.
Bogart Park
A 414-acre county park at 9600 Cherry Ave with equestrian trails, hiking, a stocked fishing pond, 26 campsites, group camping, and picnic areas in a shaded canyon setting. A gateway to the San Bernardino National Forest. Day-use fee: $3/adult, $2/child.
The stocked fishing pond is a hidden gem — bring a rod and teach the kids to fish.
Beaumont Sports Park
Multi-use fields, courts, playgrounds, and community athletic programs. The site of the annual Freedom Festival and Movies in the Park series. A central hub for Pass Area recreation.
Check the Beaumont-Cherry Valley Recreation and Park District schedule for pickup games and leagues.
Big Morongo Canyon Preserve
A desert oasis just minutes from the Pass Area with hiking trails through a lush riparian canyon. One of the premier bird-watching sites in Southern California — over 250 species recorded. Features shaded nature trails, a visitor center, and free admission.
Visit early morning for the best birding — hummingbirds, verdins, and phainopepla are common summer visitors.
Cherry Valley Lake
A quiet lake for fishing, walking, and enjoying the natural beauty of Cherry Valley. A peaceful escape for families looking for a low-key summer afternoon.
Weekday mornings are the quietest — bring a picnic and enjoy the mountain views.
Summer swimming in the Pass Area
Beaumont opens its city pools and splash pads for the summer season — hours are Sunday through Thursday 12:00–6:00 PM and Friday–Saturday 12:00–5:00 PM. For lake swimming and water sports, Big Bear Lake is about 60 miles north with kayaking, paddleboarding, and sandy beaches. And Palm Springs hotel pools — some of the best in Southern California — are just 30 minutes east.
Pro tip: Many Pass Area parks also have shade structures and splash features for families. Beat the heat with an early-morning hike at Wildwood Canyon, then cool off at the pool or head up to Idyllwild's pine forests at 5,400 feet — temperatures drop about 20°F compared to the valley floor. For evening entertainment, catch free live music at the Summer Concerts in the Park series at Stewart Park every Saturday at 7 PM.
Day trips from the Pass Area
Living in Beaumont means you're at the crossroads of mountains, desert, and the Inland Empire. Here are the best summer day trips — all within an hour of downtown.
Palm Springs
~30 min eastMid-century modern architecture, world-class resorts, spa culture, the famous Aerial Tramway, and poolside living at its finest. The desert playground practically in the Pass Area's backyard.
Joshua Tree National Park
~55 miles eastIconic desert landscape, surreal rock formations, world-class climbing, and some of the best stargazing in Southern California. A must-visit day trip from the Pass Area.
Big Bear Lake
~60 miles northMountain lake recreation — boating, kayaking, and fishing in summer. Scenic hiking trails, the Alpine Slide, and year-round mountain charm in the San Bernardino Mountains.
Idyllwild
~55 miles northA charming mountain village at 5,400 feet with cool pine forests, art galleries, live music, and the Devil's Slide Trail to Mount San Jacinto. The perfect escape when valley temps climb.
Morongo Casino, Resort & Spa
~10 min westGaming, dining, spa, and live entertainment just minutes up I-10. Summer concerts include La Fiera De Ojinaga (Aug 7) and Asia (Aug 21). Midland performed July 18. The Marketplace by Fabio Viviani and Desert Hills Premium Outlets are right next door.
Oak Glen
~40 min northFamous apple orchards in the San Bernardino Mountains. Summer offers cooler temperatures, hiking, and mountain dining — while U-pick apple season kicks off in fall.
Where to eat in the Pass Area
The Pass Area dining scene has grown significantly in recent years. Beaumont's downtown revival has brought new restaurants and cafés along the 2nd Street and E 6th Street corridor, while Banning's Ramsey Street corridor continues to add new options. Here are Sam's picks for mid-July 2026.
Downtown Beaumont
Beaumont Cafe Country Kitchen
986 Beaumont Ave
A local institution at 986 Beaumont Ave for breakfast and comfort food. Hearty portions, classic diner vibes.
Frijoles Restaurant & Cantina
652 E 6th St
Fresh Mexican cuisine and margaritas at 652 E 6th St. A lively spot for dinner with friends.
Tuscano's Pizza & Pasta
762 Beaumont Ave
Italian comfort food and wood-fired pizza at 762 Beaumont Ave. Family-friendly atmosphere.
Kasama Restaurant & The Boba Babe
383 E 6th St
Filipino cuisine paired with craft boba tea at 383 E 6th St. A unique flavor combination in downtown Beaumont.
New York Pizzeria
846 E 6th St
Classic New York-style pizza slices at 846 E 6th St. A quick, delicious lunch option.
Cornerstone BBQ
249 W 6th St
Smoked meats and classic BBQ favorites at 249 W 6th St. A Beaumont favorite for smoked brisket and ribs.
El Mariachi Taco Shop
1561 E 2nd St
Authentic Mexican street tacos and quick bites at 1561 E 2nd St. A solid grab-and-go option for fresh, affordable tacos.
Coffee & Breakfast
Cafe Agape
381 E 6th St
A local coffee house at 381 E 6th St. Good espresso, relaxed vibes, and a downtown gathering spot.
Ziggi's Coffee
311 E 1st St
Craft coffee and creative drinks at 311 E 1st St in downtown Beaumont.
Dutch Bros Coffee
1675 E 8th St
Quick drive-through coffee and energy drinks at 1675 E 8th St. Popular with the post-gym crowd.
The Sand Trap Sports Bar & Grill
892 Oak Valley Pkwy
A local favorite for game day — craft beer, pub fare, and big screens at 892 Oak Valley Pkwy near Noble Creek.
Banning & Beyond
Johnny Russo's Italian Restaurant
1335 W Ramsey St, Banning
Beloved Italian institution at 1335 W Ramsey St (4.6 stars, 400+ reviews). Family recipes, warm atmosphere, and consistently excellent pasta.
Consuelo's Home Style Mexican Food
1046 E Ramsey St, Banning
Authentic home-style Mexican cuisine at 1046 E Ramsey St in Banning (4.5 stars). Generous portions, fair prices.
Farm's House Restaurant
6261 Joshua Palmer Wy, Banning
A fresh addition to the Banning dining scene at 6261 Joshua Palmer Wy — hearty, home-style cooking with a focus on comfort food.
Charmer's Fresh Burgers
2271 W Ramsey St, Banning
Handcrafted burgers and shakes at 2271 W Ramsey St in Banning. A solid pick for lunch on the Ramsey Street corridor.
Surin Thai
300 S Highland Springs Ave, Banning
Thai cuisine at 300 S Highland Springs Ave in Banning. Fresh curries, pad thai, and a local go-to for Asian flavors.
Fire Rock Burgers & Brews
1040 Cherry Valley Blvd, Calimesa
Burgers and craft beer at 1040 Cherry Valley Blvd in Calimesa. A solid pick with outdoor seating.
Don't miss: The Beaumont Food District, which opened in early 2026 with a food court-style concept featuring a rotating cast of vendors -- a great way to sample multiple cuisines in one stop. Good Intentions Bar & Restaurant (410 E 6th St) is already earning strong reviews for American-themed dishes and wings. Yelp's "Hot and New" list for Beaumont also features Pon Pho Noodle (Vietnamese, new management), La Popular (authentic Mexican street food), Lily's (comfort food with a twist), Cafe Cultivate (new coffee shop), Kibako (Japanese flavors), Le Saint Honore (French patisserie), Casa De Silvia (Latin-inspired), and Gabinos South (Latin-inspired dining). In Banning, Farm 2 Fork Café & Bakery (42 W Ramsey St) brought farm-to-table dining with artisanal pastries and locally sourced ingredients to the Ramsey Street corridor. Farm's House Restaurant (6261 Joshua Palmer Wy) and Dos Gallos Bar and Grill at the same iconic red barn location add hearty home-style cooking and Mexican-inspired fare. Nosotros Cafe (3505 W Ramsey St, Banning) recently earned its Blue Zones Project Approved designation. For a sports bar vibe near Noble Creek, The Sand Trap Sports Bar & Grill (892 Oak Valley Pkwy) is a local favorite for game days, craft beer, and pub fare. At the Cabazon outlets, Birba Ristorante is now open at Desert Hills Premium Outlets, bringing authentic Italian dining to the Pass Area shopping corridor.
Signature Pass Area Event
The Lavender Festival at 123 Farm
The 22nd Annual Lavender Festival at 123 Farm in Cherry Valley wrapped up on July 19 after a fantastic two-month run. Twenty acres of organic lavender fields stretch across a historic farm, and every visit feels like stepping into the French countryside, with San Bernardino Mountain views and California sunshine. This year visitors wandered the rows, tasted lavender-infused food and drinks, shopped artisan vendors, and listened to live music nightly.
Lavender Nights takes over starting August 20, transforming the fields with over half a million lights into an evening wonderland through October 25. Open Wednesday through Monday, weekdays 5–10 PM, weekends 4–10 PM.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best things to do in Beaumont CA this summer?
Top summer activities in Beaumont include free Summer Concerts in the Park at Stewart Park on Saturdays at 7 PM, Morongo Casino concerts (La Fiera De Ojinaga August 7, Asia August 21), the Banning Museum Summer Bash on August 15, Lavender Nights at 123 Farm starting August 20, Movies in the Park, Gilman Ranch summer activities in Banning, the Back-To-School Celebration on August 1, and day trips to Palm Springs, Joshua Tree, and Big Bear Lake. The Pass Area also has excellent hiking at Wildwood Canyon State Park, Noble Creek Regional Park, and Bogart Park.
Is there a farmers market in Beaumont?
Yes — the Beaumont Farmers Market offers fresh produce, artisan foods, and community vendors. 123 Farm at Highland Springs Ranch & Inn in Cherry Valley also offers organic lavender, seasonal produce, and farm-fresh products year-round. The Friday Food Roundup in Calimesa (2nd Fridays at Summerwind Park) features food trucks, live music, and local vendors.
What is there to do near Beaumont for a day trip?
Beaumont is a launchpad for day trips across Southern California. Palm Springs is 30 minutes east, Joshua Tree National Park is about 55 miles east, Big Bear Lake is 60 miles north, and Idyllwild is 55 miles north. Closer options include Morongo Casino & Cabazon (10 minutes), Oak Glen's mountain dining (40 minutes), and the historic Redlands Bowl concerts (20 minutes).
What summer events happen in Banning and Cherry Valley?
Banning hosts the Gilman Ranch Summer Activities (gold panning, scavenger hunts, nature hikes — free) and Stagecoach Days (September 11–12). Cherry Valley is home to the 123 Farm (Lavender Festival wrapped up July 19, Lavender Nights starts August 20). Calimesa offers the Friday Food Roundup on the second Friday of each month. The San Gorgonio Wilderness Association's Forest Festival was held on July 18.
How hot does it get in Beaumont in summer?
Beaumont's elevation (about 2,600 feet) keeps it noticeably cooler than the surrounding low desert — average summer highs are in the mid-90s°F, compared to 110°F+ in the Coachella Valley. Morning and evening temperatures are comfortable, making early-morning hikes and evening events like Beaumont Nights and Movies in the Park pleasant. For cooler temperatures, head up to Idyllwild (5,400 feet) or Big Bear Lake.
Where can I go swimming or cool off in the Pass Area?
Beaumont opens city pools and splash pads for the summer season. Big Bear Lake offers lake swimming and water sports about 60 miles north. Palm Springs hotel pools are 30 minutes east. Many Pass Area parks also have shade structures and splash features for families.
From Sam Silver
Summer in the Pass Area never gets old
I've lived in this community for years, and every summer I'm reminded why I love it. The Doo Wop Project, La Fiera De Ojinaga, the Glenn Miller Orchestra, the Fireworks Finale, the new Banning Museum Summer Bash, and the August 18 City Council Meeting have all wrapped up for 2026. But the season isn't over yet. BBQ in the Pass debuts at Noble Creek Park August 21-22 with a barbecue cook-off and live music. The Sourdough Bread Festival at 123 Farm (Aug 29-Sep 7) is a brand-new event worth planning for. And Lavender Nights starts August 20 -- over half a million lights in the lavender fields at 123 Farm, running through October 25. The Beaumont City Council meets September 1 if you want to stay engaged with local governance. The Joshua Tree Music Festival (October 8-11) brings three days of live music, art installations, and desert culture just 55 miles east on Highway 62. The Palm Springs Certified Farmers Markets return in October with fresh dates, citrus, and artisan goods. Greater Palm Springs Pride (November 6-8) is a major annual celebration in the desert. The new Enchanted Realm Renaissance Faire at Dysart Equestrian Park in Banning on December 18 brings live jousting, medieval music, and artisan vendors — a unique way to cap the year. On the weekends, Palm Springs pools and Joshua Tree sunsets are just a short drive east. The new Hampton Inn and Home2 Suites dual-branded hotel opened at Morongo Casino in early 2026, and the Birba Ristorante is now open at Desert Hills Premium Outlets in Cabazon.
People ask me all the time what makes the Pass Area special — and I tell them it's this: you get mountain air, desert sunsets, and small-town community spirit all in one place. The events here aren't corporate productions — they're neighbors putting on festivals for neighbors. That's what makes living in Beaumont, Banning, Cherry Valley, or Calimesa different.
If you're thinking about making the Pass Area home — or you're already here and curious about the local real estate market — I'd love to chat. No pressure, no pitch. Just an honest conversation about what's possible in this community.
Related resources on Beaumont Life
This is not intended as a solicitation if you are currently working with another real estate broker. All information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed and should be independently verified. For real estate services, visit samsilverhomes.com.