When California is calling your name and you’re longing to enjoy a well-deserved vacation, Palm Desert and Palm Springs are two destinations that are sure to inspire. Year-round, these locales that are loved by travelers from across the map offer up a plethora of fun activities, festivities, and events to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for something the entire family can do together, or you’re up for shopping local markets and adding unique cultural experiences to your list, Palm Desert and Palm Springs are packed with opportunities that are truly one-of-a-kind. When you’re ready to expand your California fun, be sure to add the following top 2024 events in California for to your itinerary this year.
Enjoy Family Fun at Glow in the Park
Any time you head to Palm Desert, a stop at The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens is a great option for family fun. If you happen to be making your way in this direction between March 16th and April 28, 2024, you’ll be right on time to take part in the annual Glow in the Park event hosted here. Glow in the Park is a highly anticipated after-dark experience that happens at The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens each spring. Upon arrival, guests are greeted by larger-than-life illuminated displays that depict animals and interactive installations that make for amazing photo opportunities. There are “magic” smoke bubbles to explore and prehistoric installations that bring the past to life in glowing style. From Chinese zodiac displays to plants and creatures from around the globe, this event is one that’s not only mesmerizing but endlessly fun. It’s also delicious, as you can count on enjoying a wonderful mix of Asian and American fare on-site alongside wild-themed cocktails that are always palate-pleasing. The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens is located at 47900 Portola Avenue in Palm Desert and tickets to Glow in the Park are $29. You can enjoy this event on select nights between 6:30 pm and 10:00 pm with the last admission at 9:00 pm.
Shop Local at the Palm Desert Certified Farmers Market
There’s something special about taking time to shop local no matter where you roam and a trip to Palm Desert in 2024 is no exception to the rule. Here, you can enjoy time at the Certified Farmers Market every Wednesday from October through May between 8:00 am and 2:00 pm. Make your way to 72559 Highway 111 to enjoy browsing local produce, handcrafted goods, and more. The atmosphere is always lively and welcoming as you take time to browse locally grown potatoes, peppers, strawberries, peas, carrots, mushrooms, homemade jams, and honey too. There’s no cost to attend this family-friendly gathering which is always something visitors and locals alike look forward to year after year in Palm Desert.
Savor Easter Brunch and a Round of Golf
Travelers who will be enjoying Easter in Palm Desert won’t want to miss out on a round of golf followed by Easter brunch at Desert Willow Golf Resort on March 31, 2024. Located at 38-995 Desert Willow Drive, Desert Willow Golf Resort sets a beautiful scene for a family-friendly brunch between 10:00 am and 2:00 pm. The cost ranges from $25 for children to $75 per adult and the meal is hosted at The Terrace on-site.
Guests will be treated to a lavish holiday meal in good company that comes complete with gorgeous golf course views and the Santa Rose Mountains in the background. There are options to dine indoors or out on the patio depending on guest preference, and the menu is sure to inspire. You’re free to enjoy made-to-order omelets at this brunch which pair ham and cheese with peppers, mushrooms, onions, and savory tomatoes. There are small bites and salads to enjoy at brunch as well including charcuterie boards, seafood, fresh fruits, bagels, kale salads, roasted mushrooms, Greek salads, and mozzarella salad. At the carving station, guests will be invited to enjoy prime rib with a creamy horseradish demi-glaze that’s bound to delight.
Main dish selections for Easter brunch this year include French toast, eggs benedict, smoked bacon, country sausage, lemon chicken piccata, lamb lollipops, braised short ribs, seared barramundi, butternut squash, and honey glazed carrots. There’s also a pancake station to enjoy and a pastry station to check out which showcases cakes, pies, tarts, cookies, and more. From the full kids’ buffet to the beverage options including Champagne, coffee, tea, and orange juice, you’re sure to leave this Easter brunch experience feeling satisfied.
Find Time to Participate in the First Friday on El Paseo
If you’re looking for a place to mix, mingle, and enjoy great scenery in good company during your Palm Desert stay, be sure to take part in the First Friday on El Paseo event which is hosted on the first Friday of the month throughout the year. Begin your journey at The Gardens on El Paseo at 73545 El Paseo around 2:00 pm. This is a one-stop resource for celebrating art and music with options to take a self-guided tour through the many art galleries that adorn this part of town. There’s always live music on the Center Law at the Gardens of El Paseo beginning around 4:00 pm and there’s no cost to attend this fun and family-friendly experience.
Take Part in the Annual Palm Desert Water Lantern Festival
On April 6, 2024, Palm Desert visitors who are looking to enjoy a unique cultural experience can participate in the annual Palm Desert Water Lantern Festival. This event is hosted at the Palm Desert Civic Center Park at 43900 San Pablo Avenue beginning at 4:30 pm. The event will last until 8:30 pm and participants can enjoy checking out delicious food trucks on-site, browsing local vendors, listening to live music, and enjoying family-friendly activities too. It’s designed to be a welcoming and friendly gathering that culminates with the launching of beautiful lanterns out onto the water at sunset. Ticket prices range from $27 to $56 per person.
Capture the Spirit of the Coachella Music Festival
Perhaps one of the most well-known local events that’s on the calendar once again in 2024 is the Coachella Music Festival. Weekend one is slated for April 12 through April 14, 20242 at the Empire Polo Grounds located at 81800 51st Avenue. This premier outdoor music and arts festival is always a huge draw to the Coachella Valley and this year, weekend one will include artists like Lana Del Rey, Peso Pluma, Deftones, Everything Always, Suki Waterhouse, Chappell Roan, Black Country, Sid Sriram, Miss Monique, Skin on Skin, Ben Sterling and Keyspan. The festival will run on weekends through April 21, 2024, and other artists on the lineup include Ice Spice, Doja Cat, Jungle, Dom Dolla, Boy Harsher, John Summit, DJ Seinfeld, Lil Yachty, and more! General admission passes to the Coachella Music Festival start at $499 plus fees with options to expand your ticket to include shuttle services for $619 per person. There are also VIP passes available for $1,069 before fees.
More Music to Enjoy at Sand, Stars, and Guitars
On April 13, 2024, those who are heading to Palm Springs and looking for even more music to enjoy can find it at the Palm Springs Cultural Center where Sand, Stars, and Guitars will be showcased. This annual event is back this year to bring the best in Country, Bluegrass, NewGrass, Country Gospel, American Folk, and Americana to the stage at 2300 East Baristo Road in Palm Springs. Big names and newcomers to the industry will perform much to the delight of audiences for a unique Southern California music series. Tickets range from $35 to $65 but the fun is bound to be priceless.
Attend the Annual Memorial Day Air Fair and Flower Drop
If you’re in Palm Springs on May 27, 2024, be sure to make time to stop by the Palm Springs Air Museum at 1:00 pm. The museum is located at 745 North Gene Autry Trail and on Memorial Day, it’s the location of the annual air fair and flower drop. This is always a special day in Palm Springs with a fly-by following a short memorial service on site to honor fallen comrades. During the fly-by, over 3,000 red and white carnations descend from the sky from a B-25 Mitchell Bomber making for a moving scene. The cost to attend this annual Memorial Day event is anywhere from $20 to $22 per person.
Take Part in Palm Springs Village Fest
When you’re looking for Thursday night fun in Palm Springs in 2024, Village Fest has you covered. This inviting and vibrant gathering is hosted along North Palm Canyon Drive running from Baristo Road to Amado Road each Thursday evening. You can count on enjoying live music, fantastic food, family-friendly crafts, and kid’s activities too. Thousands of visitors and locals head this way to enjoy time together in what has decidedly become one of the area’s most beloved weekly events.
Put a Focus on Short Films in September
For film enthusiasts heading to Palm Springs in September, it’s a chance to enjoy the annual International Festival of Short Films. Tickets go on sale for this experience as early as April 1, 2024, as directors, actors, and film buffs from near and far convene in Palm Springs to enjoy hundreds of short films being screened at the Camelot Theaters. It’s one of the largest festivals of its kind in all of North America and you’re likely to see some big Hollywood industry names roaming around Palm Springs this time of year. The event is hosted in mid-September and tickets typically sell out fast.
Plan to Attend the Palm Springs Holiday Concert
Travelers who are enjoying a December holiday away in Palm Springs won’t want to miss the annual Palm Springs holiday concert when it comes to town. The city sponsors a performance by the Twentynine Palms Marine Corps Band over at the Palm Springs Convention Center each year in early December. The Palm Springs Convention Center is easy to locate at 277 N. Avenida Caballeros and with seating for upward of 12,000, there’s plenty of room for everyone to enjoy the festive fun when the date is announced.
Book Your Luxurious Stay in California Today
When you’re ready to make your way to Southern California and treat yourself to a one-of-a-kind vacation, the team at TRAVLR is here to make sure you have luxurious accommodations to top off your stay in elevated style. No matter when you arrive, how long you plan to stay, or how many fellow travelers you’re adventuring alongside, our team is committed to making sure you have the space, luxury, and great views that make all the difference in your getaway experience. Reach out today to learn more about our inviting and exciting property options across Palm Desert and Palm Springs. We can’t wait to welcome you to California soon and help you make more of every single moment you’re here.
