Fun For All
Annual Events in the Palm Springs Area

Our Palm Springs Area Annual Events Guide features recurring events that take place each year in the Greater Palm Springs region. This guide highlights the vibrant festivals, cultural celebrations, and unique gatherings that draw locals and visitors alike to this desert oasis. Note that specific dates may vary year to year, so it’s always a good idea to check local listings for exact timing.

Winter

January - March
Palm Springs International Film Festival

One of North America’s largest film festivals, showcasing over 100 films from around the world, including premieres, documentaries, and shorts. The festival kicks off with a star-studded Film Awards Gala.

  • When: Early January
  • Where: Various venues in Palm Springs
  • Why: Perfect for cinephiles and those who love red-carpet glamour.
American Express Golf Tournament

A prestigious PGA Tour event featuring top golfers competing on lush desert courses, often paired with celebrity amateurs.

  • When: Mid-January
  • Where: Multiple golf courses in La Quinta and surrounding areas
  • Why: A mix of world-class golf and a laid-back, sunny vibe.
Modernism Week

An 11-day celebration of mid-century modern architecture, design, and culture with home tours, lectures, parties, and a vintage car show.

  • When: Mid to Late February
  • Where: Throughout Palm Springs
  • Why: A must for design enthusiasts and anyone curious about Palm Springs’ iconic aesthetic.
BNP Paribas Open

Known as the “fifth Grand Slam,” this world-class tennis tournament draws the biggest names in the sport for two weeks of thrilling matches.

  • When: Early to Mid-March
  • Where: Indian Wells Tennis Garden
  • Why: Elite tennis in a stunning desert setting, plus great food and shopping.
Fashion Week El Paseo

The West Coast’s largest consumer fashion show, featuring runway shows, trunk shows, cocktail receptions, and meet-and-greets with top and emerging designers.

  • When: Mid to Late March
  • Where: The Gardens on El Paseo, Palm Desert
  • Why: A glamorous showcase of high fashion and a chance to shop the latest trends directly from the runway.
Palm Desert Food & Wine Festival

A multi-day culinary celebration featuring celebrity chefs, grand tastings with over 40 restaurants, premium wines, craft beers, and cooking demonstrations.

  • When: Late March
  • Where: The Gardens on El Paseo, Palm Desert
  • Why: A foodie paradise highlighting the Coachella Valley’s culinary scene.

Spring

April - June
Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival

A globally renowned music festival featuring top artists across genres, immersive art installations, and a bohemian atmosphere.

  • When: Two weekends in April
  • Where: Empire Polo Club, Indio
  • Why: A bucket-list event for music lovers and trendsetters
Stagecoach Festival

The country music counterpart to Coachella, with big-name acts, line dancing, and a Western vibe.

  • When: Late April (weekend following Coachella)
  • Where: Empire Polo Club, Indio
  • Why: Perfect for country fans and those who love a good hoedown.
White Party Palm Springs

One of the world’s largest LGBTQ+ dance parties, featuring DJs, pool parties, and live performances.

  • When: Spring (often around Easter weekend)
  • Where: Various venues in Palm Springs
  • Why: High-energy fun and a celebration of inclusivity.
Palm Springs International ShortFest

A week-long festival celebrating short films, with screenings, workshops, and awards.

  • When: June
  • Where: Palm Springs Cultural Center
  • Why: A chance to see innovative storytelling from emerging filmmakers.

Summer

July - September
Splash House

A multi-venue electronic music festival with poolside DJ sets and after-parties.

  • When: Multiple weekends in June and August
  • Where: Various Palm Springs hotels (e.g., The Saguaro, Margaritaville Resort)
  • Why: Beats and pool vibes make it a summer standout.
VillageFest

A weekly street fair with local artisans, food vendors, live music, and a festive atmosphere.

  • When: Every Thursday evening (year-round, but peaks in summer for visitors)
  • Where: Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs
  • Why: A casual, recurring event that captures Palm Springs’ community spirit.

Fall

October - December
Palm Springs Pride

A vibrant celebration of the LGBTQ+ community with a parade, festival, live entertainment, and vendor marketplace.

  • When: Early November
  • Where: Downtown Palm Springs
  • Why: A colorful, welcoming event with deep local roots.
Indio International Tamale Festival

A foodie favorite featuring tamale tastings, live music, and cultural performances celebrating the Coachella Valley’s heritage.

  • When: Early December
  • Where: Downtown Indio
  • Why: Delicious eats and a festive kickoff to the holiday season.
Palm Springs Festival of Lights Parade

A holiday parade with illuminated floats, marching bands, and appearances by Santa and the Budweiser Clydesdales.

  • When: First Saturday in December
  • Where: Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs
  • Why: A beloved tradition that lights up the desert night.

Year-Round Highlights

Rancho Mirage Certified Farmers Market

Fresh local produce, artisanal goods, and chef-prepared foods in a relaxed outdoor setting.

  • When: Fridays (October through May)
  • Where: Rancho Mirage Community Park
  • Why: A weekly taste of the region’s bounty.
Palm Desert Certified Farmers Market

Seasonal produce, handmade treats, and local vendor stalls.

  • When: Sundays (year-round)
  • Where: Palm Desert
  • Why: A Sunday ritual for food lovers and explorers.

Tips for Enjoying Palm Springs Events

Weather

Winter and spring offer mild, sunny days perfect for outdoor events, while summer brings heat—stay hydrated and seek shade. Fall is pleasantly warm.

Planning

Major events like Coachella, Fashion Week El Paseo, and the Palm Desert Food & Wine Festival often require advance tickets and can sell out, so plan ahead. Smaller events like VillageFest are free and spontaneous.

Getting Around

Palm Springs is compact, but the Greater Coachella Valley spans multiple cities (e.g., Indio, La Quinta, Palm Desert). Consider renting a car or using rideshares for events outside downtown.

Whether you’re into fashion, food, music, or film, the region offers a diverse lineup of annual experiences!

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