Each November, the Temecula Valley community gathers to honor a story deeply interwoven with our region’s identity and resilience. On Saturday, November 15, 2025, the City of Temecula and the Pechanga Band of Indians will celebrate the 13th Anniversary of Pechanga Pu’éska Mountain Day, a local holiday commemorating the cultural heritage of Temecula’s first peoples and the profound influence of the Pechanga Tribe on our shared community.

This year’s celebration will take place at Temecula City Hall Town Square at 4:00 p.m., featuring a proclamation recital, book signings by authors from Great Oak Press, and a special outdoor double-feature screening of The Temecula Massacre and the award-winning documentary The Mountain That Weeps. Guests are encouraged to arrive early and bring blankets for an evening of community reflection, education, and connection.

A Celebration of Preservation and Partnership

Pechanga Pu’éska Mountain Day commemorates a pivotal moment in Temecula’s modern history, the preservation of Pu’éska Mountain, one of the most sacred sites in the Luiseño or Payómkawichum religion. More than a decade ago, the Pechanga Tribe led a monumental movement to protect the mountain from a proposed mining project that would have dramatically altered the region’s landscape and cultural heritage. Their perseverance ensured that Pu’éska Mountain remains a symbol of resilience and reverence for future generations.

As Pechanga Tribal Chairman Mark Macarro reflected, “Pu'éska is a natural monument that reflects Temecula's tribal history and heritage. Thanks to the efforts of many, future generations of Temecula Valley residents will continue to enjoy our valley's beautiful landscape and fresh air.”

Why It Matters to the Business Community

The Temecula Valley Chamber of Commerce recognizes that the cultural, historical, and environmental foundations of our region are integral to the health and prosperity of the local business community. The preservation of Pu’éska Mountain not only safeguarded a sacred site but also protected the natural beauty and character that make Temecula a destination for business, tourism, and quality of life.

Strong partnerships between the Pechanga Band of Indians, the City of Temecula, and the business community continue to enrich the local economy and community well-being. From major investments in infrastructure, hospitality, and education to cultural and philanthropic leadership, Pechanga’s ongoing contributions serve as a model of collaboration and stewardship.

For the business community, Pechanga Pu’éska Mountain Day is a reminder that economic vitality and cultural respect are not competing goals, they are complementary strengths. The preservation of local heritage enhances our region’s sense of place, supports tourism, and demonstrates a shared commitment to sustainable and inclusive growth.

Honoring the Past, Inspiring the Future

Temecula Mayor Kalfus expressed the City’s continued reverence for the Pechanga Tribe, stating, “It is my sincere hope that this local holiday honors the Tribe by fostering educational awareness about the significance of the cultural heritage of the Pechanga People... This annual holiday and accompanying documentary is, in part, a strong reminder today and into the future to respect and honor the Tribe’s facts of what is and what is not culturally significant and sacred.”

As we celebrate Pechanga Pu’éska Mountain Day, we are reminded that the strength of our business community—and indeed, of Temecula itself—rests upon a foundation of respect, partnership, and preservation. Together, we honor the legacy of the Pechanga people, whose courage and leadership continue to inspire how we build, grow, and thrive as a united community.

Event Details:

Date: Saturday, November 15, 2025
Time: 4:00 p.m.
Location: Temecula City Hall Town Square, 41000 Main Street

Program Highlights:

• Proclamation Recital
• Great Oak Press Book Signing
• Appetizers and Desserts
• Double Feature: The Temecula Massacre and The Mountain That Weeps

Photos taken at the 2024 Pechanga Pu’éska Mountain Day ceremony and were taken by Shawna Sarnowski Photography. Information for this blog post was provided by the City of Temecula and Pechanga Development Corporation.