Temecula Now

Mark your calendars for one of Southern California’s most beloved textile arts celebrations! The Valley of the Mist Quilt Guild is preparing to transform the charming streets of Temecula into a vibrant showcase of color and creativity with their 26th annual Outdoor Quilt Show. This long-standing tradition brings together quilting enthusiasts, art lovers, and curious visitors for a day of inspiration and community connection, showcasing the timeless craft of quilting in a picturesque outdoor setting.

The Valley of the Mist Quilt Guild has been a cornerstone of Temecula’s artistic community for over two decades. Established as a 501(c)(3) philanthropic and charitable organization, the guild has consistently promoted the art and craft of quilting while giving back to the community. Their partnership with the City of Temecula for this annual event highlights the strong relationships that have been cultivated over the years, allowing the guild to create an event that honors traditional quilting techniques while embracing innovation in textile arts.

The 2025 installment of this cherished event will unfold on Saturday, October 4, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., offering attendees a full day to immerse themselves in quilting culture. Front and Main Streets in Old Town Temecula will serve as the picturesque backdrop for this celebration, with historic buildings and charming storefronts complementing the colorful quilts on display. The accessibility of this event extends beyond its central location—admission is completely free, making it welcoming for everyone from dedicated quilters to curious first-time visitors.

Old Town Temecula provides the perfect setting for this beloved tradition, with its blend of historic character and community atmosphere. The pedestrian-friendly streets allow visitors to stroll at their own pace, admiring the intricate craftsmanship of each quilt while enjoying the ambiance of one of Southern California’s most charming historic districts. The October timing typically offers pleasant weather, creating ideal conditions for an outdoor exhibition where the detailed stitchwork and vibrant colors of each piece can be appreciated in natural light.

The Temecula Quilt Show has grown from a small local gathering to a significant event in the quilting world, drawing visitors from across Southern California and beyond. It represents more than just an exhibition—it’s a celebration of artistic expression, craftsmanship, and the continuation of a traditional art form that connects generations. For the local community, the event has become a point of pride, showcasing Temecula’s commitment to arts and culture while highlighting the talent and dedication of area residents who keep the quilting tradition alive through their creative works.

Beyond its artistic significance, the show serves as a powerful community builder, bringing together people of diverse backgrounds and interests around a shared appreciation for this tactile art form. The event creates space for meaningful connections between artists and admirers, teachers and students, and neighbors who might not otherwise cross paths. For many local residents, the annual quilt show has become a cherished tradition that marks the fall season and reinforces Temecula’s identity as a community that values both heritage and artistic innovation.

At the heart of the Temecula Quilt Festival are three main attractions that draw enthusiasts from near and far. The outdoor quilt displays transform the historic streets into an open-air gallery, with handcrafted quilts of every imaginable pattern, technique, and color palette adorning the area. At 1 p.m., excitement builds for the Live Auction held in the courtyard between the Old Town Temecula Community Theater and the Merc, where exceptional quilts find new homes while raising funds for important causes. The Quilter’s Boutique rounds out the core offerings, offering a marketplace where visitors can purchase handmade items and quilting supplies.

The auction represents a highlight of the day for many attendees, combining the thrill of competitive bidding with the satisfaction of supporting local charities. Nearly half of the proceeds benefit community organizations, amplifying the impact of each purchase. Convenience is key at both the auction and boutique, with multiple payment options including cash, check, credit cards, and PayPal, ensuring that everyone can participate regardless of preferred payment method. Each quilt in the auction tells a unique story through fabric and thread, created with hours of meticulous work by talented guild members.

The quilting celebration extends beyond the main event day with complementary activities that broaden its reach. Throughout September, the Grace Mellman Library hosts a special display of small quilts, offering a month-long preview that builds anticipation for the main show. The popular Shop Hop takes place on Friday, October 3rd, and Saturday, October 4th, encouraging visitors to explore three participating quilt shops: Between Stitches in Temecula, Sew Treasured in Murrieta, and Quilter’s Cottage in Fallbrook. This regional tour connects enthusiasts with specialty retailers while promoting the broader quilting community.

These supporting events create multiple touchpoints for engagement, allowing both serious quilters and casual admirers to participate in ways that suit their interests and schedules. The library display makes quilting accessible to those who might not typically seek out textile arts, potentially drawing new enthusiasts to the craft. Meanwhile, the Shop Hop strengthens the economic impact of the festival by directing visitors to local businesses that supply the tools, fabrics, and inspiration for future projects. Together, these complementary activities extend the festival’s influence beyond a single day, creating a more inclusive celebration of quilting culture.

The charitable component of the Temecula Quilt Festival stands as one of its most meaningful aspects, transforming artistic expression into community support. With nearly half of the auction proceeds directed to local charities, the event creates a powerful ripple effect of positive change throughout the region. This philanthropic focus reflects the Valley of the Mist Quilt Guild’s commitment to service, using their creative talents to address community needs and support valuable initiatives that improve lives throughout Temecula and beyond.

For visitors wanting to participate beyond spectating, the festival offers multiple avenues for engagement. Newcomers can learn about quilting techniques through conversations with guild members, gaining insights that might inspire their own creative journeys. Those looking to support the cause can bid in the auction, shop at the boutique, or simply spread the word about the event. Experienced quilters might find inspiration for future projects or connections with fellow enthusiasts. Whatever one’s relationship to quilting, the festival creates an inclusive atmosphere where appreciation for craftsmanship and community spirit come together, stitch by beautiful stitch.