Celebrating modernism once a year isn’t enough — especially in Greater Palm Springs.  

That’s why there are two major celebrations of all things midcentury modern. One in October and one in February.   

Modernism Week - October is right around the corner and will delight fans with a slew of bus tours, home tours, parties, and pool-side soirees from Oct. 16-19. 

These four days are packed with more than 50 events honoring the architecture, art, and style of that midcentury modern aesthetic that has become synonymous with Greater Palm Springs.  

The event serves as a precursor and preview to the 11-day Modernism Week that takes place Feb.12-22, 2026. 

Here is a closer look at this year’s lineup, including traditional favorites, some new options to delight frequent attendees, and even some free events that everyone can enjoy.  

For a full schedule and ticket info, visit modernismweek.com

 

Signature Events

Modernism Week October Bus Tour_Xochitl Pena

With more than 50 events, it can be tough deciding where to start; you’ll never go wrong with the signature events. These anchor events delight midcentury modern fans every year — and speaking of years, this one is a milestone, as 2025 marks the 20th anniversary of Modernism Week! 

 

The Featured Home Tour

This October’s featured home tour is the Sackley Chase Sensation. This residence was designed by Palm Springs architect Stan Sackley in 1976 and features the designs of illustrious interior decorator Steve Chase. The home has everything from stunning brutalist features to sweeping glass walls that provide jaw-dropping views of the mountains and the neighboring Indian Canyons Golf Course.   

Dates: Oct. 16-19. Cost: $40 

 

Bus Tours

Without a doubt the most popular attraction during the fall or February Modernism Week experience is the double decker bus tour. These tours provide an elevated and entertaining view of all the midcentury marvels Palm Springs has to offer. Some are hosted by fan favorite personalities like Bella da Ball or Charles Phoenix, who provide lots of flair to go along with the open-top experience.  

The signature tour is the Premier Double Decker Bus Tour, providing a peek at the most architecturally significant buildings in Palm Springs.  

Dates: Oct. 16-19. Cost: $130

 

Modernism Fall Show and Preview Party

Who doesn’t love a little vino while shopping? The Preview Party for Palm Springs Modernism Fall Show provides savvy shoppers with a wine reception and preview of the Modernism Fall Show exhibits a day early.  

Dates: Oct. 17. Cost: $95 allows ticketholder return entry all weekend

 

Palm Springs Modernism Fall Show

This annual event features nearly 50 exhibitors showcasing a variety of vintage and modern goods available for purchase, from furniture and artwork to home décor and more.  

Dates: Oct. 18-19. Cost: $25

 

NEW OFFERINGS THIS FALL Modernism Week October 2025 - Xochitl Pena

If you’re a veteran of many a Modernism Week, and always looking for something new, this list is for you. It includes a mix of tours, parties, music, and food — all newly offered events, previously unseen until this fall.  

 

100 years of Palm Springs Modernism

Learn about the city’s architecture over the past century from tour guide Trevor O’Donnell during a more intimate 22-seat mini-coach tour.

Dates: Oct. 17-18. Cost: $130

 

VIVA LAS VEGAS

This PS Underground event combines iconic music and a secret multi-course menu. Listen to the always popular Gand Band riffling through hit songs synonymous with Las Vegas while you enjoy a lavish meal that goes along with the vibe. Themed cocktails, beer, and wine will be free-flowing and included in the ticket price.

Dates: Oct. 18-19. Cost: $195 

 

Golden Hour Gathering at the Morse Residence, 1961

Sometimes it doesn’t get better than siting poolside and watching the sunset with a cocktail in hand. Throw in a historic home in the Vista Las Palmas neighborhood and you have the ultimate Palm Springs experience. The Morse Residence, a Class 1 Historic site, will open its doors for attendees to enjoy all its beauty, history, and architecture with a sunset cocktail reception.  

Dates: Oct. 18. Cost: $150 

 

ONE-PS Presents

Historic Walking Tour of Downtown Palm Springs: Get your walking shoes on for an expertly guided walking tour of downtown. Attendees will explore the sites that shaped the culture, history, and architecture of Palm Springs.  

Dates: Oct. 18. Cost: $100 

 

OTHER FEATURED AND SPECIAL EVENTS 

The outside of a Twin Palms neighborhood butterfly-roof home with a vintage car parked in front.

If you’re looking for something a little quirkier, you’re in luck. The four-day stretch includes some other events that still delve into the retro theme but are a bit more unique and novel.  

 

Midcentury Sunny Cycle Tour by PS ModCom

The Sunny Cycle is an exercise in unity and teamwork as 10 to 12 people pedal the contraption like a bicycle to get from point A to point B on this tour. 

Dates: Oct. 16-19. Cost: $90 

 

Casual Concours, The Desert’s Most Fabulous Midcentury Car Show: Coupe du Jour Show

This is for the gearheads out there who want to remember those tailfins and streamlined rides from that magical era.  

Dates: Oct. 18. Cost: $25

 

Midcentury Mixology Class

Steen Bojsen-Moller hosts this event at Mr. Lyons, teaching you the secrets of making drinks the movers and shakers guzzled back in the day. This is a fun one — I can tell you from experience.  

Dates: Oct. 16-19. Cost: $85 

 

Pasta making and cooking class

Channel your inner Betty Draper from “Mad Men” as you learn to make handmade pasta and sauces at the restaurant Trio in Palm Springs, housed in a midcentury building designed by John Porter Clark and Albert Frey.  

Dates: Oct. 17. Cost: $125

 

Film screening: “The Donn of Tiki!”

Anyone who knows anything about tiki culture knows about Don the Beachcomber. The Palm Springs Cultural Center will screen this new documentary feature film officially called “The Donn of Tiki (The Mostly True Story of Don the Beachcomber).”  The event includes an introduction and Q&A with the filmmaker.

Dates: Oct. 18. Cost: $40, $50  

 

FREE EVENTS 

Modernism Week 2025_Xochitl Pena

While most of the events do cost, there are some options that allow you to be a part of the festivities while keeping your pocketbook happy.  

 

Modernism in Motion: A Sunset Showcase at Miralon

Tour some private Miralon residences to see the clean lines and indoor-outdoor lifestyle — a hallmark of midcentury modernism — while enjoying some sips and bites.   

Date: Oct. 18

 

Hot Purple Energy Architectural bike ride

Hop on your bike and join other bikers for a three-hour architectural tour. Stay afterwards for music and light bites.  

Date: Oct. 18 

 

Shag’s October Modernism Print Release Party

Enjoy cocktails and live music as artist Josh Agle, aka Shag, releases his newest print: The Aluminaire Affair.  This is the perfect place to show off your retro best and check out all his other midcentury-inspired artwork.

Date: Oct. 18. 

 

ENJOY THE VIBE 

Modernism Week 2025_Xochitl Pena

If you’ve never attended Modernism Week – October before, make this your year. It’s a fun time to learn about or dip your toe into the styles and culture that make the midcentury modern era so synonymous with Greater Palm Springs.  

The best pro tip is simply to have fun with it. Immerse yourself in the vibe; that’s the best way to enjoy it. Dress up like Nancy Sinatra when you go on your home tour and listen to some Frank Sinatra while you’re having a poolside sip. Unleash your inner Rat Packer and dress the part. You won’t be alone, and you’ll be glad you did. 

Fall is one of the best times to visit Greater Palm Springs, with festivals, farmers markets, Halloween fun, and more. Explore our fall events blog to plan your seasonal getaway!