Greater Palm Springs is filled with cheer this month with events for all ages, things to do for the whole family, holiday shopping, holiday performances and so much more. Start planning your month, checking off that shopping list, and filling your belly up with delicious food! 

EVENTS

EL PASEO ART WALK

DECEMBER 1

The renowned El Paseo Art Walk, a long-standing tradition on El Paseo, is happening on the first Friday of every month, from November through May. There will be exhibit openings, artist receptions and more. Enjoy seeing everything there is to admire from each gallery and entertaining stops along the way.

INDIO INTERNATIONAL TAMALE FESTIVAL

DECEMBER 2 - 3

The 31st anniversary of the Indio International Tamale Festival is happening this December at Miles Avenue Park. Buy your pass to all of the rides and attractions this year, you do not want to miss the deliciousness of this exciting event.

PALM SPRINGS VINTAGE MARKET

DECEMBER 3

Whether you are looking for midcentury modern décor, retro digs or antique finds, shopping in Greater Palm Springs this season is where you need to be–especially with the much-anticipated return of the monthly Palm Springs Vintage Market. This event occurs the first Sunday of the month until May.

IRONMAN 70.3 INDIAN WELLS & LA QUINTA

DECEMBER 3

The Trainual IRONMAN 70.3 Indian Wells – La Quinta has become popular and won the hearts of many. The new bike course will take athletes through challenging, beautiful flat county roads while they soak up the warm California sun. All IRONMAN events will have a village preceding race day. The village offers a great opportunity for athletes and the public to interact with official IRONMAN Partners and Vendors, and to pick up final race day essentials. 

STEVIE NICKS LIVE AT ACRISURE ARENA

DECEMBER 8

Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Stevie Nicks will keep the momentum of her wildly successful 2023 tour going by adding her Live In Concert tour at Acrisure Arena as one of her thirteen additional tour dates. 

ART ON MAIN STREET 

DECEMBER 9

Old Town La Quinta is proud to present this event featuring over 100 artists each season showing and selling their paintings, jewelry, mixed media, photography, ceramics, glass, woodwork, textiles, sculptures, and more. The art shows are a local favorite and an Old Town tradition. Come for the art and stay for the day. Parking and admission are free.

DESERT BREWFEST

DECEMBER 10

Craft beer, live music, food trucks, toy drive, and even Santa Claus! The first ever beer festival will be held at the Cathedral City Community Amphitheatre next to Luchador Brewing Company. Plan ahead and get your tickets for this can't miss beer lover's paradise.

SANTA PAWS 5K & LIL' ELF DASH

DECEMBER 16

Palm Springs Marathon Runners invites you to join the annual Santa Paws 5K, a dog-loving, fun, run/walk benefitting Guide Dogs of the Desert and local dog rescues. Each participant receives a 5-piece Santa suit that can be worn during the event and is then yours for keeps! This includes a jacket, pants, belt, hat and beard. Registration is limited so don't wait!

CELEBRATE CV: LAUREN ALAINA

DECEMBER 30

Come out and celebrate the end of the year and enjoy everything that makes Greater Palm Springs so amazing. Enjoy this spectacular event on El Paseo between Larkspur and San Pablo featuring amazing music from artist Lauren Alaina. All ages are welcome and this celebration will have food trucks, outdoor bars, and many games and activities to experience.

FREE THURSDAY NIGHTS AT THE PALM SPRINGS ART MUSEUM

EVERY THURSDAY

The Palm Springs Art Museum has 28 galleries, two sculpture gardens, a 433-seat theatre, and a popular local bistro. Every Thursday they offer free admission to the public from 5-7 p.m.

PALM SPRINGS VILLAGEFEST

EVERY THURSDAY

Villagefest takes place in downtown Palm Springs where the street is closed to create a relaxed, fun, and festive atmosphere full of food, artists, fashion, and other unique vendors.

HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS

The time has come! Spend your holidays under the sun or festive moonlight in Greater Palm Springs. Add this lineup of events, ice rinks, parades, tree lightings, and activities to your holiday schedule.

WILDLIGHTS AT THE LIVING DESERT | Select Nights; Now through December 30

TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY AT THE RIVER | December 1

CITY OF LA QUINTA ANNUAL TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY | December 1

MAGIC OF LIGHTS COACHELLA VALLEY | December 1-31

PALM SPRINGS HOLIDAYS | December 1 - January 6

HOLIDAY FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS PARADE  | December 2 

INDIAN WELLS WINTERFEST | December 2 - January 1

PALM SPRINGS AERIAL TRAMWAY TREE LIGHTING | December 3

WINTER WONDERLAND ICE SKATING | December 8

NORTH POLE VILLAGE & MAYOR'S TREE LIGHTING  | December 9

DESERT HOT SPRINGS PARADE OF LIGHTS & HOLIDAY FESTIVAL | December 10

SNOWTOPIA AT THE PALM  SPRINGS AIR MUSEUM | December 20 - 23

HOLIDAY ICE SKATING AT THE BERGER FOUNDATION ICEPLEX | December 22 - January 4

RITZ-CARLTON CHRISTMAS DAY CELEBRATION | December 25

See the full list of the Holiday Happenings in Greater Palm Springs and start celebrating this month in this Christmas oasis.

HOLIDAY DINING

Let this month be filled with amazing foodie finds when you stay in this culinary oasis. If you are celebrating something special this month, experience fine dining and taste specially curated dishes by local chefs. December is also filled with perfect weather for dining outdoors at these restaurants with amazing views. 'Tis the season for delicious food and fellowship — plan your reservations for Holiday Dining in Greater Palm Springs.

GIFT AN EXPERIENCE

For those adventure-seekers looking to gift a special friend or loved one new heights, Greater Palm Springs is the place for you this month! With the beautiful weather and sunny skies, you are in the adventurer's haven at your fingertips! If you are looking for a unique and exciting experience for the family, grab your jacket and snow shoes and hop on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway to enjoy an afternoon of hiking. Find out more about how you can Gift an Experience in Greater Palm Springs.

GREET THE NEW YEAR

Experience the ultimate New Year's celebration in Greater Palm Springs. A destination that offers a perfect blend of festivities to ring in the new year in style. Nothing quite like dazzling fireworks, live music under the starry desert sky, and an array of culinary delights, making New Year's Eve an unforgettable desert oasis experience. Find out how you can Greet the New Year in Greater Palm Springs.

End the year with delicious Greater Palm Springs holiday dining. View more restaurants serving extraordinary food this joyous season here.