Riverside to honor Dell Roberts with official day for 90th birthday

The City of Riverside will mark Dell Roberts Day on Aug. 25 to celebrate the civic leader’s 90th birthday and decades of community service. The free public ceremony is expected to draw more than 400 attendees, along with local, state and national officials.

Why it matters: - Riverside is formally recognizing one of its longtime civic leaders for decades of public service and community work. - The celebration highlights Roberts’ role in local institutions, cultural events and civic engagement that have shaped the city. - The event is free and public, which broadens access for residents who want to take part in the recognition.

What happened: - The City of Riverside will officially proclaim Dell Roberts Day on Tuesday, Aug. 25, 2026. - The city is honoring Roberts on his 90th birthday. - The ceremonial event is set for 3 p.m. in the Riverside City Council Chambers at City Hall, 3900 Main Street, Riverside, CA 92501. - The celebration will bring together local, state and national elected officials, along with community leaders from education, faith-based organizations, civil rights advocacy and business.

The details: - Roberts has served as president of the Bordwell Park Advisory Board. - Roberts played a role with the Adrian Dell and Carmen Roberts Foundation. - Roberts has supported the annual Riverside Black History Parade, now in its 46th year. - Roberts has also worked on other community initiatives that have supported Riverside residents. - Mayor Patricia Lock Dawson said Roberts “exemplifies the very best of our community spirit.” - Roberts said he was “humbled and appreciative” of the city’s recognition. - More than 400 people have signed up to attend. - Residents can RSVP for Dell Roberts Day through the event RSVP link.

Between the lines: - The honor signals how Riverside is using a citywide celebration to elevate a local figure tied to civic life, cultural heritage and community organizing. - The expected attendance and broad mix of officials suggest the recognition carries both symbolic and political weight in the city. - The emphasis on Roberts’ foundation and the Black History Parade points to the city’s interest in celebrating community institutions as well as an individual.

What's next: - Riverside will hold the ceremonial recognition on Aug. 25 at City Hall. - Community turnout will help determine how broadly the tribute lands beyond city leadership and invited officials. - More information about the Adrian Dell & Carmen Roberts Foundation is available through the foundation video.

The bottom line: - Riverside is turning Dell Roberts’ 90th birthday into a public civic tribute to a resident whose influence has stretched across neighborhood, cultural and community institutions.