WE HIT 1,200! Plus: Your Redlands Weekend Guide Inside

The holidays are behind us. The sun’s coming back out. Here’s what’s next in Redlands.

When I started RedlandsNow.com, I had a simple mission: keep our Redlands neighbors informed, connected, and in-the-know about what's happening in the city we love.

I've lived here since 1979. Raised my family here. Built my business here. And I've watched this community grow from orange groves into one of Southern California's most vibrant small cities—all while keeping that small-town heart that makes Redlands, well... Redlands.

So hitting 1,201as of today, subscribers isn't just a number to me. It's 1,201 neighbors who care about what's happening on State Street, who want to know when the Morning Market returns, and who give a damn about this place we call home.

Thank you. Truly.

If you're new here—welcome. You've joined something special. A community that still waves at neighbors, supports local businesses, and shows up when it matters.

Now, let's get to what you came here for: what's happening in Redlands right now.

Carlos and The RedlandsNow.com Team

There is a secret garden hidden behind the A.K.

Smiley Public Library that is perfect for a peaceful escape.

The Downtown Morning Market is Coming Back!

After a winter break and some uncertainty about its future, the city has confirmed that the 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 (off Redlands Boulevard between Fifth and Sixth streets, near East State Street), running from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays.

You can look forward to over 30 vendors, including local farmers, bakers, and artisans offering fresh produce, prepared foods, and handmade goods. During the winter hiatus, the city surveyed nearby businesses to understand the market's impact. The results? About a third of surrounding businesses saw a positive impact from the market, with increased visibility and new customers. The city says they'll continue evaluating operations to best serve residents, customers, vendors, and nearby businesses.

If you're a vendor interested in participating, applications are being accepted on an ongoing basis. Visit the city's website for more information.

Show Your Redlands Pride: T-Shirt Design Contest is On!

Calling all artists and creative minds! The 5th Annual Redlands T-shirt Design Contest is underway, and this is your chance to design the next official Redlands t-shirt. Hosted by the Redlands Visitor Center, the contest is open to current residents of Redlands, Yucaipa, Mentone, Highland, and Loma Linda.

The deadline for submissions is February 19th, with the winner announced on February 24th. Your design will be judged on authenticity in depicting Redlands, creativity in execution, and representation of our city. The winning design will be printed and sold - typically over 500 shirts! So get your creative juices flowing and show us what you've got. Submit your designs at the Redlands Visitor Center at 14 N. Fifth Street.

The University of Redlands continues to make us proud! Their Political Science students recently led their honors society to a national award. It's always great to see our local university students achieving excellence and representing Redlands on the national stage.

The city is looking for volunteers for several commission and board positions. The deadline to apply is today, January 7th, so if you've ever wanted to get more involved in our local government and help shape the future of Redlands, this is your chance. Don't miss out - visit the city's website for more information.

Sad news for crafters: the Joann store at 1625 W. Lugonia Avenue is closing as part of a nationwide bankruptcy affecting around 500 stores. If you're a regular shopper there, now's the time to check out any final sales before they close their doors.

Don't forget that the University of Redlands Common App is open and they're now accepting undergraduate applications for 2026! If you know a high school senior looking for a great local university, spread the word.

Get your weekend started with fresh, local produce at the Grove School farmers market. Stock up on seasonal citrus, organic greens, and support our local farmers. There's nothing quite like eating fresh and being part of our community.

When: Saturday, January 10, 8:00 am Where: Grove School Learn more

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

Business Spotlight

Quick Reads

🎨 Vote for the Best of Redlands: Now's your chance to vote for your favorite restaurants, bars, and retail spots in Redlands. Show some love to your go-to places! Cast your vote

🏀 REV Basketball is on fire: The Redlands East Valley Wildcats are having a great season, improving to 7-1 after defeating Diamond Bar 64-57. Go Wildcats! Read more

🎶 Inspire Music program celebrates 10 years: Redlands Unified's inclusive music program marked a decade of bringing music education to students with special needs through holiday concerts. Learn more

GRATITUDE & COMMUNITY

The holidays are behind us.

The rain did its job—hopefully—and now we’re getting those clear Redlands days back.

Kids are back in school.
College kids are settling into their next chapter.
And whether you planned it or not, the year has officially started.

This is the moment I love.
When things get quieter. Focus returns. And momentum starts to build.

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.

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