Hundreds of community members gathered to spread holiday joy at MilVet’s annual Holidays for Heroes event at Awakening Event Venue in Murrieta, creating a festive experience for children from local veteran families across Riverside County on Saturday, Dec. 20.
The celebration drew more than 900 attendees and featured a wide range of activities, including professional photos with Santa, the Grinch, Mrs. Claus and Disney princesses, along with crafts, a photo booth, temporary tattoos, live singers, performance groups, and even a wrestling arena. Families also enjoyed a car show, food, snacks, and entertainment throughout the day.
In addition to the festivities, every participating family received a live Christmas tree delivered directly to their home, along with stockings and large bags of toys filled from children’s wish lists. The event aimed to ensure that families who might otherwise struggle to celebrate the holidays could still experience the magic of the season.
“Spending the holidays with our local heroes and the best of our community is a great honor and blessing,” said Raven Hilden, founder and CEO of MilVet.
The event was made possible through the efforts of hundreds of volunteers and generous community partners. Hilden offered special thanks to Chris of JDog Junk Removal & Hauling Escondido for helping transport thousands of donated gifts each year.
A wide range of vendors and resource organizations participated, including Loma Linda University Health, Kaiser Permanente, The Grey Legal Group, APC, Riverside County Department of Veterans’ Services, Temecula Vet Center, Senator Kelly Seyarto, Grand Canyon University, Wildomar Library, Urban Air Adventure Park, and Veterans Advising Veterans, among others.
Local food and drink businesses also contributed to the festive atmosphere, with support from Starbucks, Texas Roadhouse, Which Wich Murrieta, Sizzler Murrieta, The Mexico Cafe Temecula, Rita’s Shaved Ice, Graze Craze in Murrieta, and Stadium Pizza Jefferson.
MilVet organizers also recognized the many drop-off locations, shoppers, raffle donors, and performers who helped bring the event together. The MilVet volunteer team spent months preparing, ensuring every child received thoughtful gifts and a memorable holiday experience.
Holidays for Heroes continues to stand as a testament to the power of community, generosity, and gratitude for those who have served, turning the season into a time of hope and celebration for veteran families throughout the region.
