Celebrate the Year of Arts & Culture in Riverside’s New Arts and Culture District (The ACD)
Published: 3/6/2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Mar. 6, 2025
Contact:
Phil Pitchford
Public Information Officer
951-826-5975
Celebrate the Year of Arts & Culture in Riverside’s New Arts and Culture District (The ACD)
RIVERSIDE, Calif. – Downtown Riverside is alive with creativity as the city kicks off the Year of Arts & Culture in The Arts and Culture District (The ACD). This year-long celebration highlights Riverside’s artistic scene through an exciting lineup of events, exhibitions, and performances, inviting the community to immerse themselves in the transformative power of the arts.
“The Year of Arts and Culture is a community-wide celebration of the rich and diverse arts scene that Riverside artists have created over the years,” Mayor Patricia Lock Dawson said. “Whether you are a regular visitor to The ACD or looking to experience it for the first time, we look forward to welcoming you.”
The ACD continues a rich legacy for the arts in Riverside, creating a hub where artists, performers, and cultural institutions shine. Riverside’s passion for the arts dates to the late 1800s when the Loring Opera House and The Mission Inn’s Music Room were constructed, which offered free concerts to residents. Over the decades, venues like the Riverside Municipal Auditorium and the Fox Performing Arts Center further established the city as a cultural destination.
Nestled in the heart of downtown, The ACD spans from 3rd to 10th Streets and Fairmount Boulevard to Lime Street, offering a diverse array of galleries, theaters, studios, murals, monuments, architectural masterpieces, and cultural spaces. The district connects the community with local and global artists, making the arts more accessible to all.
“The ACD is the artistic heartbeat of Riverside,” said City Councilmember Philip Falcone, who represents downtown and created the idea for such a district. “The Year of Arts & Culture is a great way to discover everything The ACD has to offer.”
The Year of Arts & Culture will highlight several opportunities for lovers of the arts to enjoy a rich tapestry of performances, venues and workshops. They include:
• Monthly Art Walks, with open galleries, live performances, and artisan markets on the first Thursday of every month.
• Live Performances, including music, dance, and theater at iconic venues like the Fox Performing Arts Center and Riverside Municipal Auditorium.
• Public Art & Galleries, featuring interactive art installations and exhibitions throughout the district.
• Workshops & Classes, including community-led sessions in painting, ceramics, and more.
• Cultural Festivals that celebrate Riverside’s rich diversity through music, dance, and food.
• Film Screenings & Literary Events, featuring independent films, poetry readings, and book discussions.
The Year of Arts & Culture is a movement to strengthen Riverside’s connection to its artistic community. Local businesses, educational institutions, and city leaders have united to support this initiative, ensuring the ACD becomes a lasting beacon for creative collaboration and inspiration.
With events happening all year long, there’s always something new to discover in The Arts and Culture District. For the latest event schedule and more information, visit VisitRiverside.com/ACD.
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