Looking to book an event with a spiritual component? Greater Palm Springs has an abundance of venues and facilities perfectly suited for faith-based events.
Two specialists in the field, Suzanne Aed, National Sales Manager for the Visit Greater Palm Springs, and Sabrina Yakovich, Sales Manager at the Palm Springs Convention Center, answer questions about hosting an event in the Southern California desert sunshine:
Why would you say Greater Palm Springs is a desirable location for faith-based events?
SY: We set the stage for spiritual reflection, inspiration and deeper connectivity. With towering mountains, clear blue skies and warm sunshine even in the winter months, it forms a splendid natural display.
SA: There's a high concentration of faith-based groups within an easy driving distance, and we’re extremely affordable during our off-season.
With reference to the off-season, what time of year would you recommend for an event?
SY: For incredible value, try the shoulder months of May, June, September and October. For youth programs (held in comfortably air-conditioned rooms), July and August are great options when unbelievable deals are to be found.
SA: Summer is ideal, as that’s considered our off-season. Room rates fall well within many faith-based clients’ budgets during this time.
Many of these types of events are family-oriented. Can you talk about that component?
SY: This area is rich in history, geography and culture so there’s something for everyone. We also offer attractions with varying price ranges and activity levels to accommodate toddlers to grandparents.
SA: Our accessibility to the Southern California, Arizona and Nevada drive market makes us an easily-accessible, family-friendly destination.
What are some of the groups that have held events in the area?
SY/SA: Victory Outreach and The Rock Church at the Westin Mission Hills; Church of God in Christ at the J.W. Marriott Desert Springs; The Resolved Conference of Grace Community Church at the Convention Center.
Anything else planners might want to know?
SY: We’ve had clients report increased attendance when they hold their events here. There are more than 22M people within a driving distance of less than five hours, and for those needing to fly in, the Palm Springs International Airport was named one of the “Top 10 Most Stress-Free Airports” and is served by 11 airlines that connect to hundreds of worldwide cities.
SA: There’s often a misconception that our destination is something faith-based groups can’t afford. But that’s not the case – during our off-season, anyone can take advantage of top hotels at a very reasonable rate.
