The famed “Festival of Lights” has returned to downtown Riverside, lighting up the holiday season with millions of twinkling lights, festive displays, carnival rides, and live entertainment. Among the highlights of this year’s event was a breathtaking performance by Richard Goodall, winner of the 2024 “America’s Got Talent” contest, during the festival’s opening weekend.

Taking center stage during the festival’s free concert, Goodall captivated the audience with a soulful rendition of Journey’s “Who’s Crying Now.” Without the use of auto-tune or backing tracks, he delivered a raw, heartfelt performance, accompanied only by live musicians.

Watch his performance of “Who’s Crying Now” below.

The simplicity of his vocals paired with the live instruments left the crowd spellbound, proving once again why he earned the “America’s Got Talent” title earlier this year

The Festival of Lights, inaugurated in 1992 by Mission Inn Hotel & Spa owner Duane Roberts, officially kicked off with a switch-on ceremony last Saturday. Roberts was joined by members of the Riverside City Council and special guests to illuminate the pedestrian mall, marking the start of a dazzling holiday tradition.

 

All you need to know about the 2024 Festival of Lights in Riverside – Press Enterprise

This year’s festival began the weekend before Thanksgiving, continuing the updated schedule introduced in 2023 to jumpstart the season’s festivities. In addition to Goodall, the switch-on ceremony also featured Matt Mauser & The Tijuana Dogs, delivering an evening of high-energy music for the thousands of attendees.

 

 

Goodall’s performance was particularly poignant, serving as a reminder of the festival’s ability to unite and inspire. As lights sparkled across the century-old Mission Inn, the crowd stood in awe, transported by Goodall’s stirring vocals and the timeless beauty of Journey’s classic hit.

The Festival of Lights runs nightly through early 2025, drawing visitors from across the region to experience the magic. With towering Christmas trees, elaborate holiday displays, and enchanting performances like Goodall’s, the festival continues to shine as one of California’s most cherished holiday traditions.