Celebrate the holidays under sparkling palm trees in Greater Palm Springs! This destination doesn’t slow down for the holidays. Concerts, parades, light displays, and seasonal programming take over local venues and public spaces from November through December. This guide covers what to see and where to go, including ongoing events, family-friendly experiences, and fun winter activities.

Christmas Light Displays in Palm Springs

Magic of Lights

NOVEMBER 18- DECEMBER 31

In Indio, Magic of Lights Coachella Valley fills the Empire Polo Club grounds with millions of lights and themed displays. This drive-through event features animated tunnels, giant characters, and twinkling holiday scenes. Guests enjoy the show from the comfort of their cars, making it an excellent pick for families or groups seeking a cozy evening filled with holiday cheer.

WildLights

NOVEMBER 25-DECEMBER 30

From November through December, the Living Desert Zoo & Gardens hosts its annual WildLights walk-through experience featuring more than three million lights, a holiday-themed carousel, and live music throughout the park! Stroll illuminated pathways, stop for seasonal treats, and snap the perfect selfie.

Holiday Events & Performances

Nutcracker! 

NOVEMBER 23

Celebrate the season with NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet, a dazzling holiday tradition for the whole family. Featuring an international cast, whimsical puppetry, and exquisite hand-crafted sets and costumes, this enchanting performance brings Tchaikovsky’s timeless score to life for a truly unforgettable holiday experience.
 

Palm Springs Holiday Market at VillageFest

DECEMBER 4,11,18

Get into the holiday spirit at VillageFest with “Jingle All the Way,” a festive outdoor market along Palm Canyon Drive. Stroll beneath twinkling lights and explore unique, handcrafted gifts while enjoying live music and cookies with Mrs. Claus. You may even spot Santa! It’s the perfect way to kick off the holidays in Greater Palm Springs.
 

Movie Night: The Grinch

DECEMBER 11

Get into the holiday spirit with a special screening of The Grinch at Center Stage in Downtown Indio! Bring the whole family for a magical evening under the stars. The first 100 kids can grab a free burger from Papa Headz, and everyone can enjoy complimentary popcorn. Don’t miss this holiday movie night!
 

The Duck Soup Trio's Charlie Brown Christmas

DECEMBER 11

Join Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs for a night of live jazz! Get in the holiday groove with Duck Soup Trio’s Charlie Brown Christmas—cool jazz, warm vibes, pure nostalgia.
 

City of Palm Springs Holiday Tree Lighting

DECEMBER 5

Join the City of Palm Springs for the annual Holiday Tree Lighting at Frances Stevens Park. Watch as the city’s stunning 22-foot tree comes to life at 5:15 p.m., surrounded by festive cheer. Enjoy a meet-and-greet with Santa Claus, free cookies and cocoa, and fun arts and crafts for the little ones.
 

City of Indio Tree Lighting Ceremony

DECEMBER 5

Join the City of Indio for its annual Tree Lighting Ceremony and kick off the season with a joyful community celebration! Gather with family and friends to watch the tree sparkle, enjoy festive music, and soak in the holiday spirit.

Mariachi Herencia de México - A Mariachi Christmas

DECEMBER 6

Celebrate the season with the heartwarming sounds of Mariachi Herencia de México in a special holiday edition of their La Nueva Generación world tour. The two-time Latin GRAMMY®-nominated ensemble brings the magic of Christmas to life through the vibrant traditions of mariachi music. Enjoy an unforgettable evening filled with festive favorites, rich harmonies, and cultural pride as they blend beloved holiday classics with the spirited sounds of Mexico. It’s a joyful celebration of music, heritage, and holiday cheer you won’t want to miss.
 

Canadian Brass

DECEMBER 7

Experience the virtuosity and fun of Canadian Brass at the McCallum Theatre, whether you’re a longtime fan or hearing them for the first time. With innovative takes on classical favorites, playful humor, and jaw-dropping solos, their performances are as entertaining as they are impressive. Don’t miss this high-energy musical adventure that has delighted audiences worldwide!
 

Sleigh Ride & Symphony: A Joyful Christmas Concert

DECEMBER 7

Experience the magic of the season at the Palm Springs Symphony’s premiere performance at The Plaza Theatre. Delight in timeless holiday classics, a festive sing-along, and a special visit from Santa himself. This unforgettable evening blends world-class music with holiday cheer in a setting full of vintage charm. Ring in the season with joy, wonder, and a little musical magic!
 

Jane Lynch's A Swingin' Little Christmas 

DECEMBER 15

Celebrate the season with Jane Lynch’s A Swingin’ Little Christmas, featuring Kate Flannery, Tim Davis, and The Tony Guerrero Quintet at The Plaza Theatre. This hilarious and heartwarming show brings classic holiday tunes to life with a swinging mix of music and comedy. A perfect festive night out for fans of music, comedy, or holiday cheer.
 

Manilow: A Gift of Love VII

DECEMBER 16,17,19,20,21

Celebrate the season with Manilow: A Gift of Love VI at the McCallum Theatre. This beloved holiday concert features Barry Manilow’s hit songs and festive favorites, returning for the seventh time to benefit 25 Coachella Valley charities. Past performances have delighted audiences with surprises like a children’s choir, Santa Claus, and even snow!

Borscht Belt Hanukkah

DECEMBER 18

Light up all eight nights in one swingin’ evening as Skip Heller brings a jazzy twist to Hanukkah with his Borscht Belt Hanukkah Special at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs. Blending the wit and warmth of classic Catskills cool with soulful jazz grooves, Skip and his crew deliver a holiday show that’s equal parts hip, heartfelt, and hilarious.

A Very Sinatra Christmas Special

DECEMBER 20

Join Fever for an unforgettable holiday celebration in the heart of Palm Springs at The Saguaro Hotel & Pool! A Very Sinatra Christmas Special brings the timeless elegance of Old Hollywood's golden era to the desert with a festive twist that'll make your Christmas dreams come true.
 

Palm Springs Gay Men’s Chorus: Bells, Brass & Sass

DECEMBER 19–21
Each year, the Palm Springs Gay Men’s Chorus lights up the season with one of the most joyful holiday performances in Greater Palm Springs. Their annual concert fills the stage with music, humor, and a few delightful surprises. Make your way to The Plaza Theatre for an evening of classic carols, original medleys, and colorful arrangements that blend timeless tradition with playful charm.
 

Ice Skating, Holiday Parades & Festivals

Santa Magic 

NOVEMBER 29 & DECEMBER 6

Families visiting The Gardens on El Paseo can also enjoy Santa Magic, a seasonal event with bounce houses, snow shows, and photo opportunities on select days in November and December. The center lawn transforms into a playful holiday zone, giving kids plenty to do while parents shop or relax nearby.
 

City of Palm Springs Festival of Lights Parade

DECEMBER 6

Enjoy an evening filled with twinkling lights, lively marching bands, giant Macy’s-style balloons, and a special appearance by Santa Claus at the Palm Springs Festival of Lights Parade. The parade kicks off at 5:45 p.m. along the world-famous Palm Canyon Drive, starting at Ramon Road.  Can’t make it in person? Catch all the festive fun live on NBC Palm Springs beginning at 6 p.m.
 

Snowtopia

DECEMBER 19-22

Families with small children will especially enjoy Snowtopia at the Palm Springs Air Museum. The event includes real snow, outdoor games, train rides, and holiday-themed crafts. Take photos with characters like Frosty the Snowman and Mrs. Claus, enjoy food trucks serving seasonal treats, and check out the art and crafts stations.
 

Gingerbread Lane

DECEMBER 6, 13, AND 20

Over in La Quinta, the Old Town Artisan Studios hosts the annual Gingerbread Lane. It’s a free family event with bright decorations, art-making activities, music, a massive Christmas tree, and appearances by Santa and Mrs. Claus!
 

Berger Foundation Iceplex

At the Berger Foundation Iceplex, public ice skating sessions run throughout December. This indoor rink features music, holiday lights, and space for both new and experienced skaters. Special holiday programs and extended hours create a festive atmosphere that draws folks of all ages to enjoy the winter season on the ice.
 

Pet-Friendly Holiday Events

Santa Paws

DECEMBER 13 

Stop by The Gardens on El Paseo for their annual Santa Paws, a ticketed holiday photo event that’s all about festive fun for furry friends. Pets can meet Santa, strike a pose, and take home a holiday-framed keepsake photo to cherish all season long. It’s a paws-itively adorable way to celebrate the holidays with your four-legged family members while enjoying the shopping center’s seasonal décor and cheerful atmosphere.

Walk of the Inns

DECEMBER 11

Each winter, Palm Springs’ eclectic boutique hotels open their doors for a free, family- and dog-friendly walking tour, inviting visitors to explore the charming neighborhoods between Ramon Road and Tahquitz Canyon Way. This year’s self-guided stroll kicks off at 4 p.m. with maps available at the Palm Springs Art Museum.

Santa Runs Palm Springs

DECEMBER 20

The Santa Runs invites participants of all ages—along with their leashed pups—to don their best Santa suits and join a merry run through Downtown Palm Springs. This cheerful holiday tradition combines fitness and fun as runners, walkers, and furry companions fill the streets with seasonal spirit. Whether you’re racing for time or simply soaking up the festive atmosphere, it’s a great way to kick off the holidays with a dash of community cheer.

More Holiday Fun

Agua Caliente Casino Cathedral City hosts various Christmas and holiday-themed performances throughout December, while the McCallum Theatre stays busy with a steady lineup of music, theater, and dance performances—many of them holiday themed. You can also head to Michael Holmes’ Purple Room for themed evenings featuring live entertainment, or check out the Palm Springs Cultural Center for holiday film screenings and family-friendly programming.

Rancho Mirage Library and Observatory adds a magical touch to the season with its holiday events and activities, part of its engaging year-round series. Visitors can look forward to educational family programs and festive music performances that celebrate the joy of the holidays. Stay tuned to their calendar for updates as the dates draw near!

Planning a Winter Trip to Palm Springs?

If you’re heading to Greater Palm Springs during the holidays, use our trip planning resources to check hotels, find local events, and discover all sorts of things to do across the region. Download our free visitor guide today and start mapping out your holiday in Palm Springs!