(Greater Palm Springs, CA) - November 6, 2015 - Greater Palm Springs is world renowned for its midcentury modern architecture and design, desert landscapes and luxury resorts, but equally reputable is the number of exciting events that take place year-round. From familiar classics like Palm Springs International Film Festival and Modernism Week to new annual happenings like Splash House, there is always a memorable event any month of the year. To help you plan your next vacation, we rounded up this season’s hottest events worth having on your radar.
Greater Palm Springs Pride Weekend | November 7-9
The second weekend of November is one big, fabulous block party courtesy of the free Greater Palm Springs Pride festival. The desert valley has a strong and vibrant gay population, traced all the way back to the fifties when Rock Hudson retreated to Palm Springs as an escape from Hollywood (to be openly gay!). Since, the LGBT community has created a haven here, and the gay Pride Festival celebrates Palm Springs’ incredible diversity. More than 100,000 people head to the desert for a festive weekend packed with gay-themed events like the Arenas Road Block Party, the pride parade and the pride festival.
Palm Springs International Film Festival | January 2-12
It’s not unusual to see celebrities in Greater Palm Springs thanks to its decades-long ties to Hollywood, but the mother load of A-listers flock to the desert the first week of January for the star-studded Palm Springs International Film Festival, which celebrates its 26th edition this year. Thanks to exclusive film screenings, galas and various cinema-themed panels, Palm Springs International Film Festival is one of the most popular events in Palm Springs and one of the largest film festivals in North America with 135,000 attendees. Film buffs and celebrity fans book well in advance!
Modernism Week | February 12-22
No other event embraces Palm Springs’ iconic midcentury modern architecture and design like Modernism Week. In fact, supporters of the non-profit, ten-day event include preservation groups like Palm Springs Historical Society, Palm Springs Modern Committee and Palm Springs Preservation Foundation. Modernism Week is slated to be groundbreaking this year as it will celebrate its tenth anniversary, featuring more than 100 events including home and design tours, parties, walking tours, screenings and, of course, the highly anticipated Modernism Show. Those who can’t wait until February can book tickets for Modernism Week’s fall preview October 10-13, which offers historical walking tours, pool parties and more!
BNP Paribas Open | March 9-22
For two weeks, Indian Wells is invaded by hundreds of thousands of tennis fans and enthusiasts. The BNP Paribas Open, one of the most notable tennis events in the world, features the top men and women’s professional tennis players competing at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden. Last year saw a record breaking 430,000 attendees with various themed events and promotions at nearby hotels and restaurants. Even Nobu got the tennis fever by opening its first pop-up at Paribas Open. Tickets go fast so start planning your trip now!
Food & Wine Festival Palm Desert | March 27-29
Foodies and gourmands alike are quick to book tickets to the annual Food & Wine Festival Palm Desert, and with good reason. Some of the country’s most recognized chefs—like Roy Choi and Top Chef’s Brooke Williamson—gather in the valley for unique culinary events, wine seminars and plenty of gourmet feasting that truly showcase the great flavors of the Coachella Valley and California. Celebrating its fifth edition in March, Food & Wine Festival Palm Desert is the ultimate gastronomic event in Greater Palm Springs. Tickets officially go on sale November 1—bookmark the date!
About Greater Palm Springs
Greater Palm Springs is Southern California’s premier resort, entertainment, golf and tennis destination. This modern oasis of nine distinct cities – Palm Springs, Desert Hot Springs, Cathedral City, Rancho Mirage, Palm Desert, Indian Wells, La Quinta, Indio and Coachella – lures Hollywood celebrities, major music headliners, top sports personalities, world-renowned dignitaries and visitors from around the world. Our “chill culture” experience encompasses adventure, recreation, relaxation, and array of spectacular special events including the Palm Springs International Film Festival, Modernism Week, BNP Paribas Open and Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival. For more information, go to www.visitgreaterpalmsprings.com.
