Fall is a favorite season for many, earmarked by Halloween festivities, beloved pastimes like pumpkin patches and corn mazes, and local markets and craft fairs with fall-themed goods. It’s also one of the best times to visit Greater Palm Springs, when the days are warm and sunny and the nights pleasantly cool and breezy. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a regular traveler to Greater Palm Springs, there’s plenty to enjoy during the fall season for all ages and interests.
Festivals and Fairs
Fall festivals are aplenty in Greater Palm Springs, which is home to seasonal events like Greater Palm Springs Pride from November 6-8. La Quinta Art Celebration, taking place from November 12-15, is another local favorite featuring the best-in-class artists selling work across various mediums. Midcentury modern design enthusiasts can also partake in Modernism Week, which celebrates contemporary design from October 15-18.
Live music fans can enjoy the once-in-a-lifetime experience of the annual Joshua Tree Music Festival, taking place from October 7-11 this year. Situated in the stunning and vast Joshua Tree National Park, attendees can camp out under the stars while surrounded by the sounds of their favorite artists.
Halloween Activities
For festive Halloween fun for the entire family, don't miss Howl-O-Ween from at The Living Desert! Kids and adults alike can enjoy Halloween-themed activities while learning about the diverse wildlife of the desert, home to more than 600 species.
Seeking out a spooky food event? Look no further than the annual Halloween-themed Chili Cook-Off and Car Show, held at the Palm Springs Air Museum on October 31. Check out awesome classic rides and sample chili offerings, but don’t ask their creators for the recipes, because these museum volunteers keep their beloved chili recipes a closely guarded secret.
Local Markets and Craft Fairs
Sample fall-themed delicacies from local farmers at one of the area’s many farmers markets. Old Town La Quinta farmers market, where you can shop for produce, herbs, nuts, cheese, and honey, is open every Sunday morning from October through May. Palm Springs, Indian Wells, and Rancho Mirage also host weekly certified farmers markets where stalls overflow with locally-grown fruits and flowers. Or, catch live street performers and support local vendors at VillageFest, a full-fledged street fair that takes place every Thursday in downtown Palm Springs.
Food and Wine Events
Enjoy Greater Palm Springs’ finest culinary offerings and wines at the annual Palm Springs Food & Wine Festival, taking place November 13-15. From wine tasting to live cooking demonstrations and classes held by top chefs, learn about the art of gourmet food while sampling local delights.
Are you a craft beer lover? Be sure to pay a visit to the Props and Hops Craft Beer Festival at the Palm Springs Air Museum on November 21, where craft beer meets vintage WWII airplanes in a unique event that blends history with the art of brewing.
Enjoy the fall season in Greater Palm Springs with a variety of exciting events and activities for all ages. Keep an eye on our events page for special dates and upcoming festivities to make the most of your autumn visit!
FAQ
What festivals happen in Greater Palm Springs in the fall?
Fall festivals include The Dinah, Joshua Tree Music Festival, Modernism Week – October and Greater Palm Springs Pride. The season also brings Día de los Muertos celebrations, food festivals and community events throughout the destination.
When is Modernism Week Fall Preview?
Modernism Week’s fall event, now called Modernism Week – October, takes place October 15–18, 2026. The four-day celebration features more than 50 home tours, architectural experiences, presentations, parties and other activities.
What are the best fall events in Greater Palm Springs?
Popular fall events include The Dinah, Joshua Tree Music Festival, Modernism Week – October, Greater Palm Springs Pride and Día de los Muertos celebrations. Visitors can also enjoy seasonal concerts, professional sports and culinary events.
What is there to do in Greater Palm Springs during the fall?
Fall is an ideal time to attend festivals, explore midcentury modern architecture, dine outdoors and enjoy hiking, golf and live entertainment. Visitors can also ride the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, explore The Living Desert Zoo or relax with a spa experience.
When is Greater Palm Springs Pride?
The 40th annual Greater Palm Springs Pride celebration takes place November 6–8, 2026. Festivities include live entertainment, block parties, an exhibitor marketplace and the Pride Parade on Sunday, November 8.
