Visit Greater Palm Springs this May and relax with sunshine, poolside drinks, and outdoor activities. This Southern California oasis has all kinds of festivities happening this month, including celebrations for Cinco De Mayo, Mother's Day, and Memorial Day. Make enduring memories with the entire family this May with these top things to do. 

CINCO DE MAYO

MAY 5

Don't miss out on the opportunity to savor delicious cuisine during your visit to Greater Palm Springs this Cinco de Mayo! Take a culinary journey through the different restaurants that serve authentic Mexican food with a modern twist and traditional family recipes. Try these 14 authentic Mexican restaurants in Greater Palm Springs.

Mother's Day 

MAY 10

Mother’s Day is the perfect opportunity to slow down and truly celebrate the women who do so much year-round. Whether you’re honoring your mom or grandmother, treat them to a day that feels both thoughtful and indulgent. From relaxing spa experiences and scenic brunch spots to memorable outings under the sun, Greater Palm Springs offers countless ways to make her feel appreciated. Use this guide to plan a day filled with meaningful moments, delicious bites and a touch of well-deserved pampering.

Celebrate the 3 Day Weekend 

THINGS TO DO

Taste of Jalisco Festival

When: May 1-3, 2026

Get ready to savor the spirit of Mexico at the Taste of Jalisco Festival in Cathedral City! This three-day extravaganza includes live entertainment, fair & carnival, an artisan market, tequila tasting, mouthwatering food, and much more!
 

Mind Waves: Morning Meditation Reset at Ace Hotel & Swim Club

When: May 3 and 17, 2026

Step into your own oasis for an hour of mindful restoration with Morgan Yakus and her Mind Waves series at the Ace Hotel, where scientific principles meet mindful thought. This Sunday morning active meditation is designed through the lens of neuroscience to help reset and refresh your mind and body. Perfect for anyone who struggles to “turn off” their mind, whether beginner or advanced, this session offers a fresh way to experience meditation that works with how your brain naturally functions.

During the 30-45 minute guided session, you will use inner resources and focused visualizations to gently rewire neural pathways and perspectives, fostering mental clarity, calm, and balance. It is a mindful retreat to relieve stress, reset energy, and start your Sunday feeling clear, centered, and renewed.

Dog Day at the Zoo

When: May 3, 2026

Bring your four-legged friend along for a one-of-a-kind outing at the The Living Desert Zoo. On select dates, guests can stroll dog-friendly paths, take in desert wildlife, and enjoy a unique day exploring the zoo together—just be sure to secure a dog ticket and follow on-site guidelines for a safe and fun visit.

From Time Immemorial to 1876 and Beyond

When: May 15, 2026

Join the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians for a special community celebration honoring the 150th anniversary of the Agua Caliente Indian Reservation. Held May 15 at the Agua Caliente Cultural Plaza, this free, family-friendly event features a Native American market, cultural demonstrations, live bird singing and dancing, and complimentary admission to the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum on a limited basis.

John Waite at The Show at Agua Caliente Resort Casino Spa Rancho Mirage

When: May 15, 2026

John Waite + John Cafferty & The Beaver Brown Band will be at The Show at Agua Caliente Resort Casino Spa Rancho Mirage. Join them for a night of rock and roll!

Lady A at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino

When: May 16, 2026

Grammy Award-winning country group Lady A will bring their multi-platinum-selling hits to the Special Events Center at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino on Saturday, May 16, 2026.

Bert Kreischer at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino

When: May 22, 2026

Comedian Bert Kreischer is bringing his “Permission to Party” tour to the Special Events Center at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino on Friday, May 22, 2026.

That Arena Rock Show: A Celebration of 70’s and 80’s Rock at Agave Caliente Terraza at Agua Caliente Casino Cathedral City

When: May 22, 2026

That Arena Rock Show is the ultimate high energy tribute to “Classic” Rock N’ Roll. Performing legendary rock anthems that ruled the airwaves in the 70s and 80s. Including artists like: Led Zeppelin, Aerosmith, AC/DC, Bon Jovi, Guns N Roses to name a few. This show will take you on a trip back in time, turning every sized venue into an arena for a night! Get your lighters out and your fist in the air. This rock show is more than just music it’s an experience!

Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship

When: May 22, 2026

Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship returns to the Acrisure Arena for another high-energy night of action. Following a hugely successful debut in Palm Desert, this latest event promises an electrifying fight card featuring top bare-knuckle talent from around the world alongside standout Southern California fighters. Expect an adrenaline-filled evening as BKFC brings its signature intensity back to the desert.

Palm Springs Air Museum Memorial Day Flower Drop

When: May 25

Spend a meaningful day at the Palm Springs Air Museum during this special Memorial Day observance honoring fallen service members. The moving ceremony pays tribute to those who gave their lives in service with a commemorative fly-by and a striking flower drop of more than 5,000 red and white carnations from a vintage warbird. Guests can enjoy flight exhibitions in the morning before the Memorial Ceremony begins at 1 p.m., culminating in the powerful Missing Man Formation and flower drop between 1:45 and 2 p.m.

Palm Springs 70MM Fest

When: May 29-31, 2026

The Palm Springs 70MM Fest returns for its second year, celebrating the magic of large-format cinema. Held at the Palm Springs Cultural Center’s Historic Camelot Theatre, the weekend features six extraordinary screenings—all presented in stunning 70mm film—for an immersive, big-screen experience.

Maná: Vivir Sin Aire Tour at Acrisure Arena

When: May 31, 2026

Due to overwhelming demand, legendary rock band Maná has added a second Greater Palm Springs stop on their wildly popular Vivir Sin Aire Tour. The newly announced May 31, 2026 show at the Acrisure Arena joins their previously scheduled September date, giving fans another chance to experience their iconic sound live. Known for their powerful performances and environmental advocacy, Maná continues to captivate audiences around the world.

PALM SPRINGS ART MUSEUM

EVERY THURSDAY

Unlock the world of art and culture at the Palm Springs Art Museum. Every Thursday between 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., immerse yourself in the current and ongoing exhibitions without any admission fee.

PALM SPRINGS VILLAGEFEST

EVERY THURSDAY

Join the Palm Springs Village Fest for a lively evening of art, entertainment, and delicious eats! This beloved event, held every Thursday in the heart of Palm Springs, has plenty to offer everyone. Taste international food, browse artists and artisans, and enjoy fresh fruits, vegetables, and sweets.

FAMILY FUN

Looking for a family vacation filled with fun? Greater Palm Springs has several family-friendly adventures, so look no further. Take a stroll around the scenic Joshua Tree National Park or a trip on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway to enjoy the great outdoors. The Living Desert, which has over 1,200 acres of exhibits and habitats for a variety of wildlife, is a must-see for animal lovers. In addition, the region offers exciting resort water parks, as well as family-friendly museums, art galleries, and interactive exhibits. Take a glance at this Ultimate Guide to Family Fun that will help you maximize your family's enjoyment in Greater Palm Springs.

Ready for your next vacation? Start planning your summer travels to Greater Palm Springs.