GREATER PALM SPRINGS, CA (July 30, 2026) – Visit Greater Palm Springs is excited to announce the return of its 5th Annual Event Services Celebration Week, taking place August 3 through August 7, 2026, in honor of the dedicated professionals who bring meetings and events to life throughout the destination.
As proud partners of the Event Service Professionals Association (ESPA), Visit Greater Palm Springs joins destinations nationwide in celebrating National Celebrate Services Week—a vibrant series of events dedicated to recognizing the behind-the-scenes champions of the meetings and events industry.
A Week of Learning, Connection, and Celebration
Throughout the week, event professionals are invited to come together for community service, virtual education, and an in-person celebration. The week kicks off with a hands-on volunteer opportunity, continues with three engaging webinars featuring industry experts and destination partners, and culminates in an invite-only reception recognizing the outstanding contributions of local event service professionals.
Schedule of Events
Monday, August 3
Community Volunteer Day
FIND Food Bank Volunteer Day – Food sorting at the FIND Food Bank warehouse.
Tuesday, August 4
Webinar: The Planner Playbook: Insights from the Source
Join us for an engaging conversation with Michelle Rasper Gagin, Senior Meeting & Event Manager at the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA), as she shares valuable insights from the planner's perspective. The discussion will explore today's industry trends, what planners expect during site visits, and best practices for communication and collaboration throughout the planning process—from sales turnover to event execution.
To register, click here.
Wednesday, August 5
Webinar: Intention to Impact: Making Events Inclusive
Visit Greater Palm Springs and Wheel the World will host an engaging discussion on creating events that are genuinely inclusive—from intention to impact. Together, we'll explore what true inclusivity looks like, recognizing that it encompasses many dimensions, and share practical insights to help make events more welcoming and accessible for all.
To register, click here.
Thursday, August 6
Webinar: The Burnout Conversation: Wellness in a High-Pressure Industry
In partnership with FiredUp Culture, this session will explore practical strategies for prioritizing wellness in a high-pressure industry. Hospitality and event operations never truly stop, but maintaining well-being is essential to long-term success. Attendees will explore what balance looks like for each of us and uncover tips for staying motivated, preventing burnout, and thriving both personally and professionally.
To register, click here.
Friday, August 7
In-Person Celebration (By Invitation Only)
4:00 – 7:00 p.m. | The Commune at Ace Hotel & Swim Club Palm Springs
Complimentary self-parking provided
Visit Greater Palm Springs will host its 5th Annual Event Services Celebration at the Ace Hotel & Swim Club Palm Springs, recognizing the outstanding professionals whose dedication and service help make Greater Palm Springs a premier destination for meetings, events, and group travel.
This year's honorees include:
Salvador Virgen, Director of Banquets – Tommy Bahama Miramonte Resort & Spa
Karina Hernandez, Sales & Catering Coordinator – Indian Wells Resort Hotel
Ashley Bearden, Event Planning Manager – Grand Hyatt Indian Wells Resort & Villas
Kristen Crawford, Public Relations and Events Specialist – Temalpakh Farm
Sky Blue, Catering Sales Manager – Hotel PASEO
Melissa Holm, Convention Services Manager – Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa
Glenda Maldonado, Convention Services Manager – Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa
Manigee (MJ) Javan, Senior Event Manager – The Westin Rancho Mirage Golf Resort & Spa
Vicky Chavez-Cendejas, Banquet Manager – Agua Caliente Resort Casino & Spa, Rancho Mirage
Sara Arline, Owner – The Balloon Casita
Sondra Zepeda, Director of Accounts – Momentous
Nichole Gregg, Event Planning Manager – Thompson Palm Springs
Megan Bordenkircher, Catering & Conference Service Manager – Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs
Agustin Gomez, Houseman – Avalon Hotel and Bungalows Palm Springs
Ashley Austin, Convention Services Manager – Ace Hotel & Swim Club
About National Celebrate Services Week
Originally launched in 2010 by ACOM (now ESPA) as National Celebrate Services Day, the initiative has grown into a nationwide week of recognition for the event professionals who ensure meetings and events run smoothly. Visit Greater Palm Springs is proud to lead the regional celebration and shine a spotlight on the teams that make it all possible.
Contacts
Elizabeth Jamison | Sr. Destination Experiences Manager
Visit Greater Palm Springs
elizabeth@visitgreaterps.com | 760-969-1319
Joyce Kiehl | Director of Communications
Visit Greater Palm Springs
joyce@visitgreaterps.com | 760-969-1338 | 510-673-1886
