As Southern California takes center stage for a historic season of global sporting events, Visit Temecula Valley is positioning the region as the ultimate "off-field" sanctuary for international fans, athletes, groups, and families. Conveniently located between the major stadium hubs of Los Angeles and San Diego, Temecula Valley offers a relaxing and beautiful alternative to the high-octane energy of the arena.
By choosing Temecula Valley as their home base, visitors can balance the thrill of world-class competition with the relaxed elegance of California’s premier wine destination. Travelers can extend their itineraries and explore Temecula’s award-winning wineries, chef-driven restaurants, championship golf, outdoor adventures, wellness experiences, and charming Old Town streets.
“You can experience the thrill of a world-class match and sip wine in a quiet vineyard just two hours later,” said Annette Brown, CMO of Visit Temecula Valley. “It’s the best of both worlds. We encourage fans to book a stay, decompress, and enjoy our beautiful destination. I highly recommend seeking out a vineyard view at sunset.”
Things to Do in Temecula, Summer 2026
A Landmark 4th of July Summer Extravaganza
The summer season kicks off with a massive celebration of the American spirit. This July, Temecula’s historic Old Town will pull out all the stops for its Americana-themed 4th of July parade and extravaganza. In honor of the country’s 250th anniversary, the event will be a nostalgic celebration with a traditional parade featuring an appearance by Uncle Sam, live patriotic music, and a community atmosphere that honors the nation’s heritage.
New VIP Barrel Room Experience at Falkner Winery
With a 50-inch television, foosball table and private tinted windows, this awesome cave-like space is located within the award-winning Pinnacle Restaurant. Private seatings for groups of up to 20 are offered daily, between 11:30 and 3:30pm. A $1,500 minimum is required for an experience that includes food, drinks, wine, beer, and cocktails. Food offerings include international menu items from Mexico, Belgium, and France, and the featured U.S.A. dish is the award-winning Pinnacle burger paired with a Made West Hazy IPA. More here.
Summer Nights & Vineyard Vibes
Temecula Valley’s entertainment lineup hits its peak during the summer months with world-class music in beautiful settings. As the sun sets over the hills, the valley comes alive with sound:
- Vineyard Concerts: The iconic Jazz Series at Thornton Winery features world-class musicians performing in a beautiful Mediterranean-style courtyard. Nearby, South Coast Winery Resort & Spa hosts its popular "Rhythm on the Vine" series, offering a blend of contemporary hits and soulful melodies.
- The Merc & The Vibe: Located in Old Town, the historic Merc is an iconic live entertainment venue where guests can enjoy live jazz, country music, theater productions, and comedy. For music lovers who enjoy the dance floor, The Vibe invites visitors to meet, greet, and sing along to live performances by local musicians, premiere cover bands, and special guests.
Seasonal Sips: The Art of the Summer Chill
To beat the summer heat, Temecula’s mixologists and vintners have expanded beyond the vine to include artisanal summer cocktails and mocktails. Utilizing garden-fresh herbs, local citrus, and house-made syrups, these beverages offer a sophisticated cooling experience—from sparkling lavender lemonades to bold, spirit-forward infusions.
Pools and Cabanas
Travelers looking to beat the heat can find a sophisticated refuge in Temecula Valley’s pool scene this season. Whether it’s the modern elegance of the pool at BOTTAIA Winery, the resort-style grandeur of Pechanga Resort Casino’s 'The Cove', or the rustic charm of South Coast Winery & Resort, beautiful pools provide an oasis of tranquility. Guests can also enjoy poolside bites and thirst-quenching beverages, including mocktails. Cabana rentals are also available. More details here.
A Destination for Food Lovers
Summer is also prime time for exploring Temecula Valley’s booming food scene, where local ingredients and global influences meet:
- Summer Sunset Taste of Old Town (July 22): With a wristband and map in hand, this popular event lets guests sample menu items from a variety of eateries on a walk through Old Town Temecula. From craft burgers to elevated Mexican cuisine and handmade pasta, this event often sells out quickly.
- Winery Dining: Culinary options have expanded in wine country with nearly 20 restaurants, many offering seasonal menus and open-air seating. Gaspar’s Restaurant at Altisima Winery, Creekside Grille at Wilson Creek Winery, and The Restaurant at Leoness Cellars are popular options.
- Farm-to-Table Excellence: E.A.T. Marketplace, Small Barn, Corbeaux Wine & Tea House, and Corkfire Kitchen at the Temecula Creek Inn highlight the region's agricultural roots, foraging fresh, organic ingredients from local farms and the chefs' own gardens.
Outdoor Exploring
The rolling hills of the valley provide a spectacular setting for outdoor adventure:
- Aerial Antics Paramotor Rides: Experience what it feels like to be a bird, cruising at 30mph just above the ground while exploring the terrain of wine country during a 40-minute flight.
- Ricardo Breceda’s Outdoor Art Gallery: Located just east of Temecula Valley Wine Country, Ricardo’s walkable metal gallery features incredible life-sized dinosaurs, prehistoric creatures, mustangs, and other animals. Visitors will also find influences of the Old West with a full stagecoach, cowboys, and Native Americans.
- Hot Air Ballooning: A bucket-list item for many, sunrise balloon flights offer a panoramic view of Temecula Valley’s unique topography and beautiful estates, providing a peaceful perspective far removed from the stadium lights.
About Visit Temecula Valley
Visit Temecula Valley (VTV) is the region's official tourism marketing organization and resource for visitors. Known for its award-winning viticulture, historic Old Town, and luxury resorts, Temecula Valley is located conveniently between Los Angeles, San Diego, and Palm Springs. For more information on planning your summer getaway and to view the full Events Calendar, go to https://www.visittemeculavalley.com/.