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!
This list will continue to be updated. Please check back for additional events.
DECEMBER 4
Celebrate the magic of the season with Celtic Woman’s Silver Bells Christmas Tour at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino. Gather with loved ones for an evening of soaring vocals, festive melodies, and holiday cheer.
DECEMEBER 8-13
Ease on down the road with THE WIZ, the Tony Award-winning Best Musical, returning in an all-new tour direct from Broadway. This vibrant reimagining of The Wizard of Oz brings Dorothy’s journey to life with soul, gospel, rock, and ’70s funk, plus dazzling choreography. Tickets start at $64.
DECEMBER 11
Get ready for a night of acoustic punk as Violent Femmes take the stage at The Show at Agua Caliente Resort Casino Spa Rancho Mirage. From their beginnings on Milwaukee’s streets to stages around the world, the band brings decades of distinctive sound and rebellious spirit to this live performance.
DECEMBER 5-6
The yearly 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.
DECEMBER 5
Celebrate the season along Palm Canyon Drive at the Palm Springs Festival of Lights Parade! Held on the first Saturday in December, this beloved downtown tradition brings residents and visitors together for a festive evening of sparkling floats, marching bands, and spirited performances. Keep an eye out for Santa and Mrs. Claus as holiday cheer fills the streets of Palm Springs.
DECEMBER 5
Join in the fun of the Second Annual Feliz NaviDOG costume contest event on December 5th at Esperanza Dog Park. Registration begins at 9:00am and the contest begins at 9:30am. All Breeds and sizes welcome. Two categories: Small & Large Dogs. Prizes for 1st, 2nd and 3rd + RAFFLE. Complimentary pastries and refreshments provided.
NOVEMBER 20 - JANUARY 2, 2027
Magic of Lights is a dazzling, drive-through holiday lights experience featuring favorite holiday scenes and characters of the season using the latest LED technology and digital animations. Experience Magic of Lights from the comfort and safety of your own car as you wind through the sparkling path of Coachella Valley’s new holiday tradition.
NOVEMBER 24 - DECEMBER 30
See The Living Desert sparkle with millions of lights during WildLights! Stroll through dazzling displays and walk-through exhibits, admire a 30-foot Christmas tree, and watch the holiday model train wind its way through the festivities. Capture free photos with Santa through December 24 or meet the Grinch December 26–30.
DECEMBER 6
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.
DECEMBER 6
The 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.
DECEMBER 12
Serve up a little suspense at Palm Springs Surf Club’s interactive comedy murder mystery dinner show. With actors hidden among the guests, question your tablemates and follow the clues as you enjoy a multi-course buffet dinner. Gather your favorite sleuths for a date night or group celebration. Tickets are $72.95 plus taxes, with waitstaff gratuity included.
DECEMBER 12
Celebrate the season at the City of Desert Hot Springs Holiday Parade and Festival. This annual community tradition brings families and friends together for a festive celebration featuring a holiday parade, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities. After the parade, explore local food and vendors while enjoying the holiday festivities. Admission is free and open to the public.
DECEMBER 12
Celebrate the holiday season in Downtown Cathedral City at SnowFest 2026. This free, family-friendly event brings winter fun to the desert with 12 tons of real snow, photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and festive activities for all ages. Enjoy rides aboard the Snow-Fest Express, explore the Elf Workshop, and join the celebration for the annual tree lighting ceremony and kids’ ugly sweater contest.
DECEMBER 19
The 2026 Acrisure Series, hosted at Acrisure Arena will feature top talent from across the nation over Thanksgiving weekend, headlined by Duke facing Washington State on Saturday, November 21. The Gonzaga Bulldogs vs. Michigan State and SDSU vs. BYU games finish off the 2026 series on December 19.
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.
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.