Perfect Weather, Perfect Timing, And a Restaurant Worth Talking About in Redlands

Morning Market confirmed for March, UR sports dominating, Madre Italian steals hearts, and an invitation to join the Inner Circle

This beautiful image is from The Redlands In Photos Facebook page, Credit to photographer SolyArtPhotos

If you stepped outside this week, you felt it. 

That Cool Crisp January air. Clear blue skies. The kind of weather that reminds you why people move to Redlands in the first place.

After all the rain we got, and trust me, we needed it, there's something about these post-storm days that makes everything feel fresh. Clean. Like the city took a deep breath and is ready to get back to business.

And there's plenty of good stuff happening around town this week.

The Symphony is launching a brand new concert series. The Downtown Morning Market confirmed its March return. Lincoln Memorial Shrine is planning their annual birthday celebration. And we've got some exciting new restaurants on the horizon.

But here's the thing I need to address right up front.

 Last week, we got something wrong in our trivia section. And when that happens, I believe in owning it immediately.

Carlos and The RedlandsNow.com Team

WE Got This Wrong!

Last week's trivia section incorrectly stated that the Dickens Festival takes place in Redlands. **The correction:**

The Dickens Festival is held in the city of **Riverside, California**—not Redlands.

We apologize for the error and thank our sharp-eyed readers who caught this. This is exactly why this community matters, you keep us honest and accurate. Consider it handled.

Now, let's talk about what's actually happening in Redlands...

Arrest Made in Antisemitic Drive-By Shooting

Redlands police arrested a suspect in connection with an antisemitic drive-by shooting that targeted a Jewish family's home decorated for Hanukkah. According to authorities, the suspect fired an airsoft gun while shouting slurs at the residence. This hate crime investigation has resulted in charges, and the department continues to work with the community to ensure safety.

City Council Approves $3.5M for Police Tech & Drones

The Redlands City Council approved a $3.5 million contract with Axon for police body cameras, drones, and a comprehensive digital evidence management system. This investment in transparency and technology modernizes the department's capabilities while increasing accountability. The equipment is expected to be deployed in phases throughout 2026.

Downtown Morning Market Returns March 7th

After its winter break, the beloved Downtown Morning Market will return on Saturday, March 7th! The market will be back in its regular spot in the municipal parking lot next to Ed Hales Park, running from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays. You can look forward to over 30 vendors offering fresh produce, prepared foods, and handmade goods. Start planning your spring Saturday mornings now.

Lincoln Memorial Shrine Celebrates Lincoln's Birthday: Redlands' Lincoln Memorial Shrine is planning events to celebrate President Abraham Lincoln's birthday with its annual open house and the 94th Watchorn Memorial Address. The shrine continues its tradition of honoring Lincoln's legacy with educational programming.

Redlands Mall Construction Finally Begins: After years of delays, construction has officially begun on the long-awaited Redlands Mall redevelopment. With the Dangermond family now at the helm, local leadership is driving this transformation forward. This is a potential game-changer for our downtown economy.

DUI Checkpoint This Friday: Redlands Police Department will conduct a DUI checkpoint this Friday, January 17, from 6 p.m. to 1 a.m. at an undisclosed location. Plan accordingly and designate a sober driver if you're heading out.

Art Exhibition Opens: A new exhibition featuring photography by Art Majerus and wood turning pieces opens this week at a local Redlands gallery. Stop by to support our local arts community.

Madre Italian Restaurant in downtown Redlands has quickly become a local favorite for its blend of warmth, comfort, and high-quality Italian cuisine.

The restaurant stands out as an ideal spot for date nights, especially for empty nesters seeking a relaxed, inviting atmosphere.

With house-made pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and fresh seafood, the menu rivals celebrated Little Italy destinations—yet at more affordable prices and without the big-city hassle.

More than just a dining experience, Madre is a heartfelt tribute to family and community values, reflecting the owners’ local roots and commitment to making every guest feel welcome.

Attentive service, generous portions, and a cozy ambiance make it a top choice whether you’re celebrating or simply sharing a weeknight meal.

If you’re looking for authentic Italian fare in Redlands, Madre delivers a memorable meal—right in the heart of the community.

This weekend brings a mix of community events, sports, and chances to support local. Here's what's happening:

Prep Sports in Action

Redlands-area prep teams continue league play across soccer, basketball, wrestling, and water polo. Check local schedules for game times and show your support for our student athletes.

University of Redlands Women's Basketball

Despite their eight-game winning streak ending, the Bulldogs are still having a strong season at 10-2 overall and 3-1 in conference. Catch their next home game and support our local university.

For a complete list of Redlands events, visit AboutRedlands.com

Quick Reads

VA Clinic Cancellations: Two-thirds of appointments at Loma Linda VA outpatient clinics have been canceled due to staff shortages, according to a recent audit. Veterans deserve better.

Olive Avenue Market: Three longtime friends have joined the ownership team at Olive Avenue Market in Redlands. Supporting local, community-owned businesses matters.

Loma Linda University Health: The medical center is seeking 10,000 community artworks for a massive mosaic mural project. A unique opportunity to be part of something permanent and beautiful.

T-Shirt Design Contest: The 2026 Annual Redlands T-shirt Design Contest is still accepting submissions at the Redlands Visitor Center through February 19th. Show your Redlands pride through design.

GRATITUDE & COMMUNITY

The new year has officially started. And you know what? This is my favorite time of year.

The holidays are behind us. The weather is perfect. And there's this sense of momentum building across the city. New businesses opening. Events getting planned.

People getting back into their routines and reconnecting with neighbors. Redlands has always been a place where people show up—at markets, at games, for local businesses, and for each other. This year is no different.

So let's start it strong.

Get out this weekend. Support local.

Say hi to someone you haven't seen in a while. Try that new restaurant you've been meaning to check out. Show up for a high school game.

Walk through Brookside Park on one of these perfect January afternoons.

This is what makes Redlands specia, not the buildings or the streets, but the people who care enough to be part of something bigger than themselves. 

Thanks for being here, and for caring about this place we all call home.

Contact us at sponsor@redlandsnow.com

Sponsorship Opportunities

Ready to connect with engaged Redlands residents? Our newsletter reaches dedicated community members who support local businesses.

Contact us at info@redlandsnow.com to learn about sponsorship opportunities and tell us about your upcoming events.

That's all for this week! Thanks for reading, and we'll see you around the groves.

Stay connected, stay local,
Carlos Samaniego, EA

The RedlandsNow.com Team