Summer 2026 in Beaumont and the San Gorgonio Pass is packed with things to do — from the 22nd Annual Lavender Festival at 123 Farm in Cherry Valley (final days through July 19) and free Redlands Bowl concerts 20 minutes west, to Thursday night market vibes at Beaumont Nights, free Summer Concerts in the Park at Stewart Park on Saturdays, the Forest Festival celebrating local trails this Saturday, July 18, concerts at Morongo Casino in Cabazon, outdoor movies under the stars, gold panning at Gilman Ranch, and day trips to Palm Springs, Joshua Tree, and Big Bear Lake. Whether you're a longtime Pass Area resident or you're thinking about moving to Beaumont, Banning, Cherry Valley, or Calimesa, this guide covers the best summer events, outdoor activities, dining, parks, and community happenings across the San Gorgonio Pass area. Updated July 15, 2026.
Summer 2026 at a Glance
Lavender Festival final days through July 19 at 123 Farm · Forest Festival this Saturday, July 18 · Beaumont Nights every Thursday through July 30 (Son of a Gun this Thursday) · Summer Concerts in the Park free at Stewart Park Saturdays at 7 PM (next concert this Sunday, Jul 19) · Morongo Casino concerts — Midland (this Saturday, Jul 18), La Fiera De Ojinaga (Aug 7), Asia (Aug 21) · Redlands Bowl free concerts through August 14, including Frozen: The Musical (Jul 23–26) and the Fireworks Finale (Aug 14) · Lavender Nights lights up the fields starting August 20 · Stagecoach Days September 11–12 in Banning · And day trips to Palm Springs, Joshua Tree, Big Bear, and Idyllwild are all within an hour.
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 mid-July 2026 and beyond.
22nd Annual Lavender Festival
Don't MissOne of Southern California's original lavender celebrations returns for its 22nd year — 20 acres of sprawling organic lavender fields, live music nightly, lavender-inspired food and drinks, artisan vendors, and family-friendly activities on a historic organic farm in Cherry Valley. Open Wednesday through Monday, extended hours on weekends (12–10 PM Sat–Sun). This is a signature Pass Area summer experience, just minutes from Beaumont.
Lavender Nights at 123 Farm
Over 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.
Beaumont Nights
Thursday evening market nights from 6:00–9:30 PM along Beaumont Avenue in Downtown Beaumont — food vendors, local businesses, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities. A beloved summer tradition and one of the signature community events in the Pass Area.
Redlands Bowl Summer Music Festival
The 103rd season of free summer concerts at the historic Redlands Bowl — Tuesdays and Fridays at 8 PM. Just 20 minutes west of Beaumont. Upcoming highlights include The Hutchins Consort (Jul 17), Disney's Frozen: The Musical (Jul 23–26), TAIKOPROJECT (Jul 28), West Side Story in Concert (Jul 31), The Doo Wop Project (Aug 7), The Glenn Miller Orchestra (Aug 11), and the season-ending Fireworks Finale with the Redlands Symphony Orchestra (August 14).
Summer Concerts in the Park
Free live music every Saturday at 7:00 PM at Stewart Park — bring chairs and blankets. Food trucks and a beer/wine booth available. The July 18 concert is the next one. A beloved summer tradition for the Pass Area.
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 and Open-Space District venue in Banning. A fun, free way to explore the ranch's trails and historic structures while learning about the natural beauty of the San Gorgonio Pass.
Forest Festival
The San Gorgonio Wilderness Association's annual celebration of local trails, conservation, and the stunning San Gorgonio Wilderness. A great opportunity to learn about hiking and outdoor stewardship right in our backyard.
Friday Food Roundup
Calimesa's monthly community evening — live music, food trucks, cold drinks, and family activities on the second Friday of each month throughout the summer. A relaxed, family-friendly way to kick off the weekend.
Forest Festival
The San Gorgonio Wilderness Association celebrates the great outdoors with this annual festival — a perfect opportunity to learn about local trails, conservation, and the stunning San Gorgonio Wilderness right in our backyard.
Morongo Casino Summer Concerts
Morongo Casino in Cabazon — just 10 minutes west on I-10 — hosts concerts and entertainment throughout the summer. Upcoming: Midland (country, Jul 18), La Fiera De Ojinaga (Aug 7), and Asia featuring John Payne (Aug 21). Check morongocasinoresort.com for tickets and additional dates.
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.
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 Midland (Jul 18), La Fiera De Ojinaga (Aug 7), and Asia (Aug 21). 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. And Good Intentions Bar & Restaurant (410 E 6th St) is already earning strong reviews for American-themed dishes and wings. 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, and Farm's House Restaurant (6261 Joshua Palmer Wy) is a welcome addition with hearty, home-style cooking. And Nosotros Cafe (3505 W Ramsey St, Banning) recently earned its Blue Zones Project Approved designation — recognizing healthy, plant-forward menu options. 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.
Signature Pass Area Event
The Lavender Festival at 123 Farm
The 22nd Annual Lavender Festival at 123 Farm in Cherry Valley is the crown jewel of Pass Area summers. Twenty acres of organic lavender fields stretch across a historic farm, and every visit feels like stepping into the French countryside — except with San Bernardino Mountain views and California sunshine. Wander the rows, taste lavender-infused food and drinks, shop artisan vendors, and listen to live music nightly. Open weekdays 5–10 PM, weekends 12–10 PM (closed Tuesdays). General admission starts at $10 for adults.
The Lavender Festival runs through July 19 — don't miss it. After that, 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 the 22nd Annual Lavender Festival at 123 Farm in Cherry Valley (final week through July 19), the Forest Festival on July 18, Beaumont Nights every Thursday through July 30, concerts at Morongo Casino in Cabazon (Midland July 18, La Fiera De Ojinaga August 7), free Summer Concerts in the Park at Stewart Park on Saturdays at 7 PM, free Redlands Bowl concerts just 20 minutes west, Movies in the Park, Gilman Ranch summer activities in Banning, 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 and Lavender Nights. Calimesa offers the Friday Food Roundup on the second Friday of each month. The San Gorgonio Wilderness Association's Forest Festival (July 18) also takes place in the Pass Area.
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. You can spend a Saturday morning hiking Wildwood Canyon, hit the Lavender Festival in Cherry Valley for lunch and live music, catch free Summer Concerts in the Park at Stewart Park on Saturday night, and still make it to Beaumont Nights for tacos and a concert on Thursday. On the weekends, Palm Springs pools and Joshua Tree sunsets are just a short drive east.
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.