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.
Spring in Palm Desert and Indio, CA is a season brimming with vibrant events that attract visitors from around the globe. The area becomes a hub of excitement and entertainment, from world-renowned music festivals to cultural celebrations and culinary delights. Whether you’re an art aficionado, a food lover, or a music enthusiast, the region offers an array of events that promise unforgettable experiences. Let’s dive into some of the top spring events in Palm Desert and Indio, CA, you won’t want to miss.
Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival
The Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, a cornerstone of spring events, transforms the Empire Polo Club in Indio into a global music destination. Coachella is a cultural phenomenon that spans two weekends, April 12-14 and April 19-21, 2024. Past lineups have boasted an eclectic mix of artists, from Beyoncé to Radiohead and Tame Impala to Ariana Grande, showcasing the festival’s commitment to diverse musical genres and groundbreaking performances. Beyond the music, attendees can explore art installations that range from the whimsical to the avant-garde, indulge in gourmet food from local and international vendors, and participate in interactive experiences that embody the festival’s innovative spirit.
Stagecoach Country Music Festival
Shortly after Coachella, the Empire Polo Club grounds welcome the Stagecoach Country Music Festival, the premier country music event in the nation. From April 26-28, 2024, Stagecoach celebrates the best in country music, featuring legends and emerging stars alike. Previous lineups have included icons like Garth Brooks, Luke Bryan, and Carrie Underwood, showcasing the depth and diversity of the genre. But Stagecoach offers more than just concerts; it’s a full-blown country lifestyle experience with line dancing, BBQ competitions, and a range of activities that echo the country spirit.
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day
St. Patrick’s Day in Palm Desert and Indio is a vibrant celebration of Irish culture, even in the heart of the California desert. The area comes alive with green as local pubs and restaurants offer traditional Irish fare, green beer, and live music. Community events, including parades and family-friendly activities, paint the town green, creating a festive atmosphere that brings people of all ages together. It’s a day when everyone’s a little bit Irish, enjoying the spirit of camaraderie and good cheer.
Palm Desert Food and Wine
Set against the picturesque backdrop of The Gardens on El Paseo from March 21-24, 2024, the Palm Desert Food and Wine Festival is a culinary extravaganza that invites food enthusiasts and wine lovers alike. This illustrious event is a testament to the nation’s rich culinary diversity, featuring an array of top chefs and a spectacular selection of food and wine. Attendees can enjoy live cooking demonstrations by celebrated chefs and wine-tasting sessions exploring a broad spectrum of vineyards. The festival’s opening night gala sets the stage with a multi-course meal accompanied by fine wines, while the Grand Tasting Event remains a highlight, offering samples from over 50 chefs and wine producers.
Art on Main Street at Old Town La Quinta
The Art on Main Street event in Old Town La Quinta presents a vibrant celebration of the arts. Scheduled for February 17th, March 9th, and 23rd, this gathering showcases the talents of over 100 artists across various mediums, such as paintings, jewelry, photography, and ceramics. It’s a unique occasion where art lovers can connect directly with creators, uncover the inspirations behind their works, and find that perfect piece to add to their collection. Each event day promises a new array of artists, live demonstrations, and a family-friendly atmosphere enriched with live music and food vendors. Art on Main Street is an immersive experience that highlights creativity, community, and the joy of discovering art in all its forms.
Book Your Spring Getaway to Palm Desert & Indio
These events highlight just a fraction of what Palm Desert and Indio have to offer during the spring season. Each event showcases the diverse culture, talent, and beauty of the region, providing visitors with rich experiences and lasting memories.
As you plan your spring getaway to Palm Desert and Indio, make one of our beautiful vacation rentals your home base. Our properties offer the perfect blend of luxury and comfort, ideally located to enjoy these fantastic events and everything else the area offers. Book your stay with us and experience the vibrant spring festivities of Palm Desert and Indio, CA. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to create unforgettable memories in this desert paradise!
Enjoying time in Palm Desert and Indio is easy to do year-round, but there’s something undeniably special about a trip this way in the summer when the event calendar is brimming over with options for fun! When you’re looking to boost your itinerary options, the following are a few of the many top summer Indio and Palm Desert events of 2023 that you’re going to want to be sure to experience when you’re in town.
Enjoy the Palm Desert Dive-In Movie Series This Summer
Nothing says summer quite like time enjoyed at the movies and if you find yourself in Palm Desert this time of year, you’ll be just in time to make the most of the Palm Desert Drive-In Movie Series. Hosted by the Palm Desert Aquatic Center and Family YMCA of the Desert, this summer movies series is great for the entire family to enjoy together and will be hosted at the Aquatic Center located at 73751 Magnesia Falls Drive. The series kicks off on June 16th starting at 7:30 pm with a showing of Puss in Boots-The Last Wish. The next showing will be Sonic the Hedgehog 2 on July 14th, Surf’s Up on August 11th, and the Super Mario Brothers Movie on September 2nd. It’s only $5 each to enjoy this event making it as budget-friendly as it is entertaining this summer. This is one you won’t want to miss out on while you’re in town.
Experience a Musical Moment at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino
If your travel plans bring you to Indio on June 24, 2023, you’ll have the chance to enjoy seeing the Barenaked Ladies take to the stage at the Fantasy Springs Resort Casino. Head over to 84245 Indio Springs Parkway where the concert starts at 8:00 pm and tickets range in price from $39 up to $99 per person. This band has been on the music scene for over 33 years and has sold no less than 15 million records worldwide! Their hits “One Week” and “Pinch Me” are sure to have you singing in your seats and they’re widely acknowledged as a fantastic live act that keeps audiences coming back for more. Be sure to purchase tickets early as this is a show that’s bound to fill up fast.
Savor the Sights of Monument Night Adventures in Palm Desert
Starting Saturday, June 24, 2023, and recurring throughout the summer, the Monument Night Adventures experience in Palm Desert is one that’s well worth adding to your to-do list when you’re heading to town with your favorite traveling crew. Hosted along the Art Smith Trailhead at 51500 CA-74, this event sees the desert come to life in illuminating style when the sun goes down. Participants meet up with their guide at 8:30 pm and head down the trail using special blacklights that allow the desert’s nocturnal creatures to glow under the spotlight. It’s a revealing and educational experience that offers up a look into what the desert does after dark. Just remember to wear closed-toe shoes to make the most of the fun safely! This event is free and family-friendly all summer long.
Celebrate the 4th of July
For those that are heading to Palm Desert over the 4th of July and looking for summer fun in a red, white, and blue style, the Palm Desert Independence Day celebration is sure to delight. Hosted on July 4th between 7:30 pm and 9:30 pm, this community gathering is one that features food trucks, drinks, live music, and a great fireworks display at Civic Center Park after sundown. Much to the thrill of spectators, the fireworks are synched to patriotic music making the experience that much better! This is one the whole family is sure to love.
Embrace Your Western-Style
On July 8, 2023, at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino in Indio, those looking to embrace their inner cowboy and cowgirl can enjoy a concert by Little Big Town starting at 8:00 pm. Entering the music scene over 18 years ago, this country group has continued to thrill audiences ever since with hits like “Pontoon,” “Day Drinking” and “Tornado” too. When they begin singing their best-selling single “Girl Crush” it will be hard to keep anyone in their seats. Tickets are on sale at prices ranging from $79 to $129.
Book Your Stay in California Today
There’s no better time than now to begin turning those summer California travel plans into a well-deserved reality. At TRAVLR, we know that having incredible accommodations in place can make your stay that much more meaningful, and our collection of property options are designed to inspire! Reach out today to learn more about our inviting and exciting summer rentals and how we can help you enjoy every moment to the max. We’re happy to handle the details while you focus on the fun and can’t wait to see you in sunny California soon.
Palm Springs and the Coachella Valley are home to some of the biggest international events like Coachella Music and Arts Festival, Stagecoach Music Festival, American Express PGA Tour, and much more. One of the biggest events of the year is the BNP Paribas Open, which features professional tennis in an approachable and affordable way. Here is more information on this amazing sports event in the Palm Springs and Coachella Valley area.
Location
The 2021 BNP Paribas Open is located in the town of Indian Wells, which lies in the Coachella Valley about 125 miles east of downtown Los Angeles. The tournament is played at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden, which was built in 2000 and has 29 different tennis courts, including a 16,100-seat main stadium which is the second largest tennis-only stadium in the world. After the tournament gained significant attendance in 2013, they expanded into an 8,000-seat stadium for their second court. They used a new “pro-purple” interior court color developed specifically for this tournament which is the exact opposite color of the yellow on the tennis ball to make it that much easier to see the ball.
About the Tournament
The BNP Paribas Open is a combined ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000 event that will be held October 4th to October 17th. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this is the first time that the event will be held in the fall. The Open will feature a women’s event with a 96-player singles draw, 32-player singles qualifying draw, and 32-team doubles draw, while the men’s event will feature a 56-player singles draw, 28-player singles qualifying draw, and 28-team doubles draw. The top men and women in tennis will play for the title in the desert with $15.3 million in prize money available, the most for a combined ATP and WTP event of this size since the beginning of the pandemic.
Health and Safety Protocols
After a 2.5-year hiatus, the 2021 Paribas Open will celebrate the return of professional tennis to the desert, but with health and safety as a top priority. The BNP Paribas Open will require all fans, staff, sponsors, media, and vendors will have to show valid proof of vaccination in order to enter the Indian Wells Tennis Garden for the tournament. In addition, depending on the conditions at the time of the tournament, additional testing as well as mask mandates in certain seating areas may be required by the Riverside County Health Department and the state of California. Make sure you check their website prior to attending to ensure you have everything you need to experience this event.
Ticket Packages
The BNP Paribas Open has options for just about any level of tennis lover who wants to participate in this event. Their ticket options range from single session tickets all the way up to packages to see the entire event in prime seating locations. Their single session tickets allow you to enjoy the perfect day in tennis paradise with reserved seats in one of the three stadiums or even a simple grounds pass. The reserved seating tickets start at $50 and include access to the other two stadiums’ open seating areas and increase in price depending on your preferred area of seating. If you just want to get in and see some tennis, we recommend grabbing a grounds pass, which gets you in the gate and access to the non-reserved seating which is first come, first serve. If you are looking to really save some money, their qualifying games and warm-up matches are available free of charge on October 5th and 6th. These first two days of the tournament are completely open to the public.
Planning Your Experience
If you are planning to visit any part of this amazing event, make sure you check out the 2021 BNP Paribas Open website for all your information needs before the event. They have a complete interactive site map that includes maps for the stadiums, dining, retail, and more. The event also has a mobile app that will allow you access to every exciting moment of the tournament, no matter where you are. Along with basic information, you will also have access to their event policies. Some of these to watch out for are the clear bag policy, which prohibits any bags larger than 12’’ x 6’’ x 12’’ and they much be clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC. The event also prohibits guests from bringing in their own alcohol, pets, or cameras with a flash, so make sure that you check out their restrictions prior to the event to make sure you aren’t that guy or gal that gets kicked out of the event early.
If you’re planning on attending the BNP Paribas Open, you’ll want to secure the perfect lodging to return to at the end of a long day of tennis. Several of our rental properties such as Hacienda Santa Rosa, Base Camp, and The Summit even feature access to private tennis courts to help you get in your own spirited back-and-forth game. Contact TRAVLR today to book one of our exquisite rental properties located conveniently near the Indian Wells Tennis Garden!