The weather outside is far from frightful, which means winter in Greater Palm Springs is oh-so-delightful! Here, stockings are stuffed with sunshine and palm trees decorated with twinkling lights. Be jolly and make merry at these festive holiday events and experiences happening in Greater Palm Springs. 

Holiday Events & SHOWS

Magic of Lights Coachella Valley

When: November 19–December 29

Guests can enjoy the Magic of Lights from the comfort of their vehicle, taking in beloved holiday scenes like Winter Wonderland, the 12 Days of Christmas, Toyland, and festive favorites such as Elves and Reindeer Road. The experience features the dazzling 200-foot Enchanting Tunnel of Lights, plus three exciting new additions: the Blizzard Light Tunnel, the Snowflake Tunnel, and the Candy Cane Light Tunnel, each offering a unique and magical display.

WildLights at The Living Desert 

When: Select Nights from November 26–December 30

WildLights at The Living Desert Zoo & Gardens returns this year featuring an enhanced light design with 3 million lights throughout the park, live nightly entertainment, Instagram-worthy festive photo ops, delectable wintertime treats, and much more! It is presented by the H.N. and Frances C. Berger Foundation.

Gingerbread Lane at Old Town Artisan Studios

When: December 7-21

Stroll through a magical, twinkling wonderland filled with holiday cheer! Marvel at their 17-foot decorated tree beside Santa’s workshop. Indulge in holiday treats with gingerbread cookies and hot cider from their culinary area, and get creative with activities like cookie decorating, clay ornament painting, and more! 

Ice Skating at Berger Foundation Iceplex

When: December 1-31

Skate into the holiday season! Join their holiday public skating sessions in the month of December. Enjoy fun on the ice!

Mary Poppins the Musical

When: December 5-22

This musical invites you to London, England in 1910 where the magical Mary Poppins flies in on the wind, bringing with her a combination of whimsy and disciplined common sense to the Banks children’s lives. Together, they go on many fantastical and memorable adventures. Mary Poppins teaches all ages that “anything can happen if you let it.”

Kenny G at Spotlight Showroom at Spotlight 29 Casino

When: December 6

Experience the smooth sounds of Kenny G live at the Spotlight 29 Casino Showroom! Doors open at 7 p.m. Guests must be 21 or older to attend, or 16+ when accompanied by someone 21 or older.

Indio International Tamale Festival

When: December 7-8

Mark your calendars for December 7 & 8 and join the fun at the Indio International Tamale Festival! With over 260 vendors, multiple entertainment stages, lively Mexican music, dancing, arts, a carnival, and a holiday parade, there's something for everyone. Don’t miss the 5K and 10K runs and, of course, the delicious tamales and a variety of incredible food options!

Santa Paws 5K and Elf Dash

When: December 7

Get into the holiday spirit at this unique 5K event where every participant transforms into Santa Claus! Each registrant receives a Santa suit to wear during the race and keep as a festive souvenir. Whether you prefer to run, walk, or stroll, this family-friendly route welcomes everyone, including strollers and furry friends!

Palm Springs Festival of Lights Parade

When: December 7

The Palm Springs Festival of Lights Parade has been a cherished holiday tradition since the early 1990s, lighting up Palm Canyon Drive on the first Saturday in December. Conceived by former Palm Springs Mayor Will Kleindienst and a group of community-minded individuals, the parade was designed to celebrate the joy of the holiday season and create a unique tourism event. Over the years, it has drawn an estimated 100,000 attendees annually to downtown Palm Springs. Featuring an array of marching bands, performance groups, and beloved appearances by the Budweiser Clydesdales, Mickey and Minnie Mouse, Snoopy, and, of course, Santa and Mrs. Claus, the parade continues to bring festive cheer to Greater Palm Springs.

Sarah Brightman: A Christmas Symphony

When: December 7

The holiday season shines even brighter as Sarah Brightman, the world’s best-selling soprano and Grammy Award-nominated artist, returns to the stage with her enchanting "A Christmas Symphony” tour. Don't miss this magical celebration of music and festive cheer!

Santa Magic at The Gardens on El Paseo

When: December 7

Experience the magic of the season at The Gardens on El Paseo's annual Santa Magic event! Secure your spot for a festive photo with Santa for just $25 and enjoy a day packed with holiday fun. Highlights include bounce houses, games, letter-writing to Santa, story time with Mrs. Claus, and mesmerizing snow shows every hour. Create cherished holiday memories with family and friends!

Yve Evans Trio: A Magical Holiday Jazz Experience

When: December 11

Get into the holiday spirit with the festive jazz holiday melodies of the Yve Evans Trio at the Desert Candlelight Concerts! Enjoy a magical evening of beautiful music in the intimate setting of the Mary Pickford Theater. This unique experience promises to delight, offering a perfect ambiance for a memorable night of live jazz. Don’t miss the chance to see Yve Evans Trio perform!

Amanda McBroom: Wintersong at Michael Holmes' Purple Room

When: December 13-14

Get ready to spread some holiday cheer! Amanda McBroom is back at the iconic Purple Room in Palm Springs to celebrate the release of her latest album, WinterSong—a heartfelt collection honoring winter holidays. Enjoy cherished seasonal standards and classics by Dan Fogelberg, Joni Mitchell, Ken Hirsch, and Amanda’s own collaborations with Michele Brourman and Ann Hampton Callaway. Don your holiday best, grab your tinsel, and join the festivities for a night of music and merriment!

Broadway Barbara's Holiday Spectacular at Michael Holmes' Purple Room

When: December 20-21

Broadway legend and social media sensation, Broadway Barbara, returns to Palm Springs for a night filled with festive tunes, dazzling showbiz stories, and a sprinkle of Broadway magic. Watch in awe as Barbara puts her unique spin on classic Christmas songs, shares jaw-dropping Broadway gossip, and even delivers an unforgettable Hanukkah medley. It's a one-of-a-kind performance full of yuletide cheer and entertainment you won’t want to miss. 

Santa Paws at The Gardens on El Paseo

When: December 14

Attention pet lovers! Don’t miss the chance to capture a heartwarming moment with Santa and your furry friends. For just $25, you’ll receive a delightful 4x6 photo in a festive frame to cherish forever. Bring your pets and make this holiday season extra special!

Making Spirits Bright: Christmas with Dean & Marilyn at Rancho Mirage Library and Observatory

When: December 14

Experience an intimate evening of holiday classics with the legendary Dean Martin and Marilyn Monroe, backed by a six-piece swinging band. Spend an hour filled with classic Christmas songs, sing-alongs, and fun, along with a few of the hits that made them both famous! Direct from Las Vegas, this event brings a touch of the old days to Rancho Mirage. 

Desert Hot Springs Parade of Lights and Holiday Festival

When: December 14

The Parade of Lights kicks off at Palm and Mission Lakes Blvd., making its way to Palm and 2nd Street. Immediately following the parade, the holiday festival takes place at Palm and Pierson. Immerse yourself in the festive spirit as shimmering floats and dazzling displays light up the night. But that's not all! There's so much more to enjoy, with a variety of fun activities for the whole family to experience.

Cathedral City SnowFest

When: December 14

Snow-Fest, happening from 4-8 p.m., brings the full holiday experience to one festive event in downtown Cathedral City. Enjoy holiday music, meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, witness the lighting of the holiday tree, and so much more to get you into the holiday spirit!

Home for the Holidays

When: December 14-15

Modern Men – Coachella Valley Men’s Chorus invites you to experience their 2024 holiday concert, Home for the Holidays. This special performance combines beloved holiday classics with fresh, original music that reflects the chorus members' personal holiday memories. It’s a heartwarming celebration of the season you won’t want to miss!

Palm Springs Gay Men's Chorus: FA LA LA...FABULOUS! Holiday Spectacular

When: December 19-22

The Palm Springs Gay Men’s Chorus (PSGMC) presents their highly anticipated annual December concert, a holiday tradition that has become the must-see event of the season. In celebration of their silver anniversary, this year's performance promises to be bigger and bolder than ever. The concert will feature a mix of beloved holiday classics such as Sure on the Shining Night, Silent Night, and We Are Lights, alongside fresh new arrangements including That Christmas Morning Feeling, Pink Christmas, and A Super Gay Christmas. Expect unexpected, fabulous surprises that will make this holiday season even more memorable!

The Good Good Show: A Holiday Roast

When: December 21

The Good Good Show presents A Holiday Roast, a stand up comedy show with a twist. Get ready for some late night fun with Paige Weldon (Comedy Central, The Late Late Show with James Corden, Paramount Network). Also featuring: Julie Weidmann, Craig Applebaum, Emily Lentz, Van Rose and Pierce Amaro.

The ALT-imate Acoustic Christmas Show at Agave Caliente Terraza at Agua Caliente Casino Cathedral City

When: December 15

ALT 101.5, presents The ALT-imate Acoustic Christmas featuring Weathers, Jakobs Castle, Sports Team, and The Romona Flowers.

A Holiday Sing-A-Long With the Yve Evans Trio at Palm Springs Art Museum

When: December 19

​This festive sing-a-long event blends classic holiday tunes with vibrant jazz, making it a perfect outing for the whole family. Described by fans as a "private party in a public place," the Yve Evans Trio brings boundless energy to the stage. Add a dash of Sweet Baby J’ai’s soulful voice to the mix, and you're in for a holiday treat. They'll lead you through beloved holiday classics, inviting everyone to join in and spread the cheer.

Dave Koz and Friends Christmas Tour 2024 at McCallum Theatre

When: December 22

Celebrate the 27th anniversary of the longest-running jazz-based Christmas tour with Dave Koz and Friends! This exciting new chapter in the beloved tradition will feature Koz and Friends performing their own unique takes on holiday classics, along with a special Chanukah medley. In addition to holiday favorites, the tour will include a mix of hits from the artists’ extensive musical repertoires. Joining Dave Koz is his long-time collaborator, guitarist and singer Jonathan Butler, along with special guests saxophonist Vincent Ingala, guitarist Adam Hawley, and vocalist Rebecca Jade.

Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet at McCallum Theatre

When: December 19

The cherished holiday tradition is returning: Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet. Bring your family and friends together for a heartwarming experience filled with nostalgia as America’s most beloved Christmas celebration comes to life. Witness an extraordinary international cast, including Ukrainian principal artists, performing at the highest level of classical European ballet. Be amazed by breathtaking acrobatics, life-sized puppets, and exquisite, hand-crafted sets and costumes. This is a magical opportunity to immerse yourself in the wonder of Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet.

Snowtopia

When: December 20-22

Head to the Palm Springs Air Museum for a festive Winter Wonderland experience that’s perfect for the whole family! Snowtopia brings Santa Claus and 60 tons of real snow to the museum for a day filled with magical activities. Play in the snow on the tarmac, take a ride on a real holiday train, and roast your own S’mores over cozy outdoor fire pits. Savor delicious treats from food trucks offering pizza, hot dogs, and more. Capture holiday memories with Frosty the Snowman, Mrs. Claus, and playful elves for photos. Inside the Miles Hangar, enjoy craft-making, holiday shopping, and indulge in hot chocolate and cookies for a truly festive experience!

Christmas Buffet Dinner

Celebrate the holiday season with the Kestrel Christmas Buffet Dinner at Indian Wells Golf Resort. Enjoy a festive feast featuring a variety of seasonal dishes, refreshing beverages, and live music in a beautifully adorned setting. Gather friends and family to share in the warmth and magic of Christmas, surrounded by holiday cheer. Reservations are encouraged to ensure your spot for this unforgettable celebration.

The Muppet Christmas Carol at Palm Springs Cultural Center

When: December 22

Celebrate the season with a free Sunday matinee screening of The Muppet Christmas Carol at the Palm Springs Cultural Center's Historic Camelot Theatre!

Bring your holiday spirit and enjoy this timeless retelling of Ebenezer Scrooge's redemption, brought to life by Kermit, Miss Piggy, and the entire Muppet gang. Hailed as one of the best adaptations of Charles Dickens' classic, this festive favorite is filled with laughs, music, and Jim Henson Company magic.

Enjoy the extended version of this holiday classic, featuring the restored song When Love Is Gone on one of the biggest screens in the Coachella Valley!

Tree Lightings 

Tree Lighting Ceremony at The Westin Rancho Mirage Golf Resort & Spa

When: November 29

Celebrate the season at "The Backyard" at The Westin Rancho Mirage! Join them for their annual tree lighting ceremony and holiday festivities, featuring live entertainment by Chris Lomeli. It’s the perfect way to kick off your holiday celebrations in style!

Annual Tree Lighting at La Quinta Resort & Club

When: December 1

Join the festivities at La Quinta Resort for their annual tree lighting ceremony! Starting at 4 p.m., enjoy live music, complimentary cookies, hot cocoa, and carols as they light up the night and usher in the holiday season with warmth and cheer.

Tree Lighting Celebration at The River at Rancho Mirage

When: December 6

Celebrate the season with a festive evening filled with holiday cheer and activities for all ages. The event will feature guest speakers, including city officials, chamber leaders, and local business representatives, who will help kick off the holiday season in style.

Celebrate the Season at The Gardens on El Paseo

When: December 6

Join in the festive spirit with a dazzling tree lighting ceremony, an exciting holiday concert by Eevaan Tre and the Band, and the magical sight of snowfall. This free event is a wonderful opportunity to come together with loved ones and embrace the joy of the holiday season!

Tree Lighting Ceremony with Abi Carter at Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

When: December 8

Abi Carter, the Season 22 winner of American Idol and a Coachella Valley native, will light the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway’s 2024 tree at the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony. KESQ Chief Meteorologist Patrick Evans will return as emcee for the event at the Tramway’s Mountain Station. The festivities kick off at 5:30 p.m. with performances of holiday classics by the Palm Springs High School Choir and String Quartet. Following the concert, Carter will illuminate the Tram's iconic 45-foot tree, adorned with over 4,000 LED lights visible throughout the Coachella Valley.