REPORT TO CITY COUNCIL
To:Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council
From:Jason Simpson, City Manager
Prepared by:Johnathan Oliver Skinner, Director of Community Services Date:September 9, 2025
Subject:Road Closures for the 2025 Fall Events
Recommendation
Approve temporary road closures for Trunk or Treat on Saturday, October 11th, Dia de Los Muertos on November 1st, and Winterfest on December 6 th to Historic Downtown and adjacent streets as outlined in the attached traffic control plans, with adjustments permitted as necessary and approved by the City Engineer.
Background
The City of Lake Elsinore is excited to host its popular Trunk or Treat on October 11, 2025. The event attracts thousands of Lake Elsinore residents to host and participate in a festive, family- friendly event highlighting residents, businesses, and a Halloween fanfare. Participants host themed experiences out of the “trunks” of their cars, passing out flyers, candy, and crafts.
Temporary road closures for the Trunk or Treat are scheduled from 2:00 PM to 10:00 PM.
Soon after, on November 1, 2025, the DMA, Studio 395, and the City will together host the annual Dia de Los Muertos event featuring a vibrant car show, captivating performances, and beautifully crafted altars. Visitors are encouraged to visit downtown to immerse themselves in culture, lively dance, and an array of vendors. Temporary road closures for the Dia de Los Muertos event are scheduled from 1:00 PM to 10:30 PM.
Finally, to wrap up the Fall 2025 events, the City hosts its renowned Winterfest Event and Parade on December 6, 2025. Winterfest has become a signature event with multiple generations kicking off the holiday season with food, vendors, a magical night parade, the famous sled runs, and the most beautiful holiday light experience in Southwest Riverside County. Temporary road closures for Winterfest are scheduled from 1:00 PM to 11:00 PM. Additionally, some adjacent streets may be closed on Friday, December 5, 2025, to accommodate staging of materials and sled run set- ups.
Road Closures for 2025 Fall Events
Discussion
To ensure public safety, road closures for the Fall 2025 events are being submitted for City Council approval, with specific maps and details provided in the supporting attachments.
The Riverside County Sheriff's Department—Lake Elsinore Station, in collaboration with the Public Works Department, the Engineering Department, and the Community Services Department, will coordinate resources to execute the event in alignment with the attached road closure plans. For the highest level of safety, staff recommends enforcing the street closures identified in the Exhibits, supported by City staff and law enforcement.
Recognizing the need for flexibility in adapting to unforeseen circumstances, the road closure plan may be amended with approval from the City Engineer.
Fiscal Impact
Costs for staffing the road closures are budgeted in FY 2025/2026.
Attachments
Attachment 1 - Road Closure Maps
Community Services