December 18-24, 2024 🍇📅

Vol. 1, Issue 5: Rancho’s Glow Up: Thoroughbred Lights Edition Holiday Cheer, One Light at a Time

Every December, the quiet streets of Rancho Cucamonga’s Thoroughbred neighborhood come to life with dazzling lights, elaborate displays, and festive cheer. Known as the Thoroughbred Lights, this event has been a cornerstone of holiday celebrations in the Inland Empire for over 40 years, drawing visitors from across Southern California to experience its magic.

The story began in the early 1980s when a handful of neighbors on Thoroughbred Street decided to brighten the holiday season with simple light displays. As word spread, more homes joined, creating a spectacle that gained local fame. According to the Inland Valley Daily Bulletin, what started as a modest effort evolved into a large-scale event, with nearly every home participating by the 1990s.

Unlike professionally curated displays, the Thoroughbred Lights are entirely resident-driven. Homeowners spend weeks—or even months—designing their decorations, which range from classic twinkling lights and Nativity scenes to high-tech setups synchronized with music. In interviews with local media, many residents have expressed their joy in being part of this cherished community effort.

The Thoroughbred Lights have become a hallmark of Rancho Cucamonga’s holiday season, fostering a sense of unity and pride among residents. The event also has a philanthropic side, with some homeowners collecting donations for local charities or hosting canned food drives during the season.

For those planning a visit, we recommend going on weekday evenings to avoid heavy weekend traffic. Walking through the neighborhood allows visitors to fully appreciate the intricate displays while drive-through options remain popular for those with children or mobility concerns.

Although some residents have voiced concerns about the challenges of maintaining such a large-scale display, the Thoroughbred Lights continue to thrive. Social media platforms like Instagram and YouTube have helped spread the word, ensuring this beloved celebration remains a highlight of Rancho Cucamonga’s holiday season.

🐾 Pet Adoption Spotlight

Meet Sally

Sally is a two- to three-year-old Staffordshire terrier mix weighing 40 lbs. She’s a fun-loving foster dog searching for a permanent home this Christmas! Sally loves rolling around in the grass and playing fetch—she’ll keep you entertained for hours.

If you want to add a loyal and playful friend to your family this holiday season, contact Marissa Chang at 352-357-3312 to learn more about adopting sweet Sally.

Heard it through the grapevine!

December 18-21, 2024 Events

Dec 18

🎄 Kids Craft Night | 🕒 5:00–7:00 pm | 📍 Chick-fil-A Rancho Cucamonga

This is a chance for kids to get creative with holiday crafts.

🖤 Tim Burton Winter Craft Night | 🕒 6:00 pm | 📍 Paul A. Biane Library

Teens in grades 7-12 can step into the whimsical, spooky world of Tim Burton to create crafts inspired by his characters. Hot cocoa and snacks included!

Dec 19

🍪 Free Cookie or Brownie | 🕒 All Day | 📍 Chick-fil-A Rancho Cucamonga

Claim your free treat via mobile reward, valid for December 19 only.

Dec 20

🐄 Spot the Cow Elves | 🕒 All Day | 📍 Chick-fil-A Rancho Cucamonga

Find the Cow Elves and win big in the drive-thru!

🎯 Parents Night Out: Nerf Wars | 🕒 6:45–8:45 pm | 📍 Premier Martial Arts Academy, Rancho Cucamonga

Drop off the kids for a fun evening of Nerf wars while you enjoy a well-deserved break or finish your holiday shopping!

🎶 Live Music: Allen Ray | 🕒 7:00–9:00 pm | 📍 Haven City Market

Enjoy an evening of live music with Allen Ray, featuring a mix of 60s and 70s rock, country, blues, and Americana.

Dec 21

🎅 Breakfast with Santa Cow | 🕒 8:00–9:30 am | 📍 Chick-fil-A Rancho Cucamonga

Join Santa Cow for breakfast, crafts, photos, and fun. RSVP required.

🕷️ Creepy Curios Xmas Market | 🕒 11:00 am–4:00 pm | 📍 Haven City Market, 8443 Haven Ave, Rancho Cucamonga

Discover unique and spooky holiday gifts at this all-ages event. Browse curiosities, creepy creations, and festive finds. Free entrance!

🎸 Holiday Bash | 🕒 5:00–8:00 pm | 📍 Rockstars of Tomorrow, 9350 7th St, Rancho Cucamonga

Drop in for live music, giveaways, and refreshments. Enjoy performances by Fret 11, RSVP, JamCore, BandCore, Orion, Zenith, and debut sets by Serenity and 13 Minutes of Hindsight. Bring a snack or drink to share!

🎵 Latin Night Featuring DJ Kiddee | 🕒 Salsa Class 6:00–7:00 pm, Live Music 7:00–10:00 pm | 📍 Haven City Market Indoor Event Center

Celebrate Latin Night with a free salsa class, live music, and drink specials, including $7 Micheladas and $4 beers.

Multi-day events

Dec 10–21

🍪 Gingerbread Scavenger Hunt | 🕒 All Day | 📍 Rancho Cucamonga Library (Both Locations)

Search high and low to find all the gingerbread friends hiding in the children’s area. Complete your activity sheet and earn a special prize!

Dec 6–24

✨ 2024 Thoroughbred Holiday Lights Drive-Thru | 🕒 5:00–11:00 pm | 📍 Portions of Thoroughbred St., Jennet St., and Turquoise Ave.

Enjoy the magical holiday lights display from the comfort of your car. A traffic management plan is in place to ensure safe access for all visitors.

Business Spotlights

🎨 Wet Paint Studio: Wet Paint Studio is a creative hub where art and imagination come to life. Offering classes, workshops, and open studio time, it’s a perfect space for aspiring artists and seasoned creatives. With various mediums and projects available, Wet Paint Studio provides an inspiring and supportive environment for those looking to explore their artistic side or learn new skills.

🔥 HOTWORX: HOTWORX Rancho Cucamonga is a state-of-the-art fitness studio that offers infrared sauna workouts. Combining heat, exercise, and isometric postures, the 24/7 virtual classes provide an efficient and unique way to burn calories and detox your body. Whether you’re into yoga, HIIT, or pilates, HOTWORX helps you achieve your fitness goals while maximizing recovery and results.

🍽️ The Combine Kitchen: The Combine Kitchen is a culinary gem offering a fusion of bold international flavors and locally sourced ingredients. Known for its innovative dishes and welcoming atmosphere, The Combine Kitchen is perfect for a memorable meal with friends and family. Whether you’re in the mood for brunch, lunch, or dinner, the menu has something for every palate.

Feel free to check us out on Instagram too!