From Music Festivals to Palm Springs Pride, There’s Tons to Experience in the Desert This Season
Known for year-round sunshine and striking landscapes, Greater Palm Springs is an enchanting desert region that transforms into a captivating fall destination with cooler temperatures, seasonal ingredients and fun fall happenings for the entire family. The fall weather in Palm Springs is similar to the summer weather in other destinations, so you can still expect to catch some rays by the pool and head out for a nightcap in a light jacket or a sweater. But we don’t think that should stop you from getting into the seasonal spirit—and this year, Greater Palm Springs has plenty of events to help you celebrate. From expected events like harvest and spooky-season festivities to some uniquely midcentury modern Palm Springs happenings, here are nine must-do activities that will make for a truly unforgettable fall.
Modernism Week—October
When: Oct. 19-22, 2023
Where: Throughout Palm Springs
For design enthusiasts and architecture aficionados, Modernism Week—October is a dream come true. A mini version of the main Modernism Week in February, Modernism Week—October is a four-day event that showcases the impact that midcentury modern design and style has had on the Palm Springs area. This October, you can expect over 50 fun and exciting events to choose from, which will include the staple walking tours and discussion panels along with some festive parties held in elusive locations. It’s a chance to immerse yourself in the timeless allure of sleek lines, iconic palm trees and the spirit of an era that’s still alive and well in the desert.
Palm Springs Pride 2023
When: Nov. 3-5, 2023
Where: Throughout Palm Springs
Celebrate love, expression and unity at the 37th Palm Springs Pride. Known for its vibrant and inclusive atmosphere, this annual event is a joyful celebration of the LGBTQIA+ community’s pride and resilience. Event highlights include the Arenas District Block Party (Nov. 3), Festival Marketplace and Entertainment (Nov. 4-5) and the Parade on Palm Canyon Drive (Nov. 5). Greater Palm Springs Pride radiates love and acceptance, making it an incredible experience for everyone, regardless of orientation or identity. Note that tickets are not required to attend, but they’re a great way to donate and support the local Pride organization and help keep the event accessible to as many people as possible.
Fall Getaway at Renaissance Esmeralda
When: Offer valid Dec 31
Where: Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa, Indian Wells
With the days getting shorter and temps dropping along the coast, there’s no better time for a desert vacation! Unpack your bags this fall at the beautiful Renaissance Esmeralda in Indian Wells and revel in balmy desert nights and mountain views. This resort property offers something for everyone with a sandy beach pool, serene day spa, kids entertainment zone, nearby championship golf courses and more. And when you book a two or more-night stay and take advantage of the Ultimate Family Stay and Play Package, you’ll receive a welcome pizza party and a $100 credit for the Desert Glow Entertainment Zone, which features arcade games, an escape room and duckpin bowling. Use promo code XY0 at checkout!
Desert WineFest
When: Oct. 28-29, 2023
Where: Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa, Rancho Mirage
Want to sip wine for a good cause? Raise your glass to the exquisite flavors of the desert and say “salud” to an exciting inaugural event: Desert WineFest! This fall, wine enthusiasts and connoisseurs are invited to sip boutique wines, savor delicious brews and browse through artisan goods while enjoying musical entertainment from Ashford Gordon & the Local Group. The event will take place at the Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa on the fifth fairway, ensuring patrons a gorgeous and lush ambiance that’ll pair perfectly with some vino. Desert WineFest chose a local charity to benefit from this event, and this year’s beneficiary is the Desert Cancer Foundation, an organization dedicated to helping over 8,700 people in and around the Coachella Valley by paying for their cancer care.
Palm Springs Vintage Market
When: Oct. 1, Nov. 5 and Dec. 3, 2023
Where: Camelot Theater parking lot, Palm Springs
Nestled against the backdrop of swaying palms, the Palm Springs Vintage Market is a treasure trove for lovers of all things vintage. This monthly market, held on the first Sunday of the month from October through May, has reawakened after its summer break and is returning with bountiful offerings of antique furniture, fashion, jewelry, collectibles, decor and more. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a novice peruser, you’ll find hidden gems and timeless pieces that harken back to different eras and give you a chance to step back in time and uncover the unique stories behind each find.
Howl-o-Ween
When: Oct. 28-29, 2023
Where: The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens, Palm Desert
Get ready for a spooktacular experience at The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens during Howl-o-Ween, a bewitching hybrid of nature and the supernatural. This family-friendly event combines the magic of Halloween with the enchantment of the animal kingdom, inviting children and adults alike to embark on a fun adventure. Step inside the stunning zoo, learn more about some local and international fauna and even feed a giraffe while you and your pack are dressed up in your Halloween best. Howl-o-Ween will take place from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Oct. 28-29 and will be free for members or those with paid park admission.
7th Annual LQBC Oktoberfest
When: Oct. 28, 2023
Where: La Quinta Brewing Co., Palm Desert
Embrace the spirit of Bavaria in the heart of the desert at La Quinta Brewing Co.’s seventh Oktoberfest. While La Quinta Brewing Co. will be celebrating all October long with select beers priced at $9, the brewery’s annual Oktoberfest party is the ultimate celebration—complete with steins of beer, a special food menu, live music and plenty of contests and prizes. Last year, the food menu included treats like bratwurst, pretzels, pulled pork sandwiches and apple turnovers, and for $14, you can snag a commemorative beer stein. Ready to see what this year has in store? Raise your glass, don your best lederhosen or dirndl, and prepare to savor the flavors of Germany in Greater Palm Springs.
Indio Tamale Festival
When: Dec. 2-3, 2023
Where: Downtown Indio
Wrap up your fall adventure in Greater Palm Springs with the Indio Tamale Festival. This beloved tradition pays homage to the rich culinary heritage of the Coachella Valley and has been an annual highlight in the area for over 30 years. Here, you can sample a mouthwatering array of tamales, each bursting with its own unique flavors, while taking in live performances on the festival’s six stages and perusing through different crafts and goods from over 200 vendors. Not only is this event a cherished tradition in the area, but it has garnered plenty of attention from travelers as well—the Indio Tamale Fest has been named one of the US’s top 10 food festivals by Food Network and has been awarded two Guinness World Records (one for the Biggest Tamale and one for the Largest Tamale Festival).
Born and raised near the Pacific Coast, Jordan Nishkian is a California girl through and through. She graduated from Cal State Long Beach with a BA in Creative Writing and a BA in Anthropology, and her favorite place to be is curled up in a comfy chair with a book in her hand and a pen in her hair.
