These Activities Are Sure to Make Your Season Oh-So Merry

With Thanksgiving behind us and the holiday season officially in full swing, it’s the perfect time to ask the question, “Where should I spend the holidays?” Don’t underestimate Christmas in Greater Palm Springs. This desert oasis goes all out during the winter months with events like festive tree lightings, pet parades and dazzling, walk-through light experiences. We’ve rounded up the best and brightest of Greater Palm Springs’ holiday events this winter season.

 

WildLights at The Living Desert Zoo

Dates: Nov. 26 to Dec. 30 (select nights)

Embark on a nighttime safari at The Living Desert Zoo & Gardens—holiday edition! Cacti, desert willows and acacia will come to life in a sparkling veil of twinkling lights throughout the park grounds. The festival is returning this year with awe-inspiring lighted exhibits, including its Tunnel of Lights, Dazzling Gift and holiday-themed G-Scale model train! Stroll through the zoo’s African Safari section, where dazzling lights complement sightings of Africa’s iconic wildlife, including giraffes, rhinos and zebras. And to stay cozy, stop by the s’mores station or grab a steaming cup of cocoa. A full bar with beer, wine and holiday cocktails will also be available for guests 21+.

Location: Palm Desert

 

Palm Springs Festival of Lights Parade

Date: Dec. 7

Jingle all the way to Palm Canyon Drive this winter season for a festival of lights you won’t want to miss! Stretching from Ramon Road to Tachevah Drive, a parade of holiday floats will make its way down the palm-lined street. Marching bands and Christmas carolers merrily merge on the streets of downtown Palm Springs, filling the air with the sweet serenades of the season. With a thermos of steaming cocoa to warm your hands, sit back and enjoy this much-loved holiday tradition!

Location: Palm Springs

 

Magic of Lights at Empire Polo Club

Dates: Nov. 19 to Dec. 29

The Empire Polo Club is going all out for the holidays this year! Over two million Christmas lights set the stage for a festive evening in this drive-through holiday village, enhanced by free photos with Santa and themed dress-up nights! The Magic of Lights drive-through guides visitors through a cozy montage of holiday-themed displays, from the larger-than-life sparkling Holiday Barbie display to the supersized Bigfoot Monster Truck display. Load up the car with your friends and family, and experience the magic for yourselves!

Location: Indio

 

Snowtopia at the Palm Springs Air Museum

Dates: Dec. 20-22

Blast off into a winter wonderland at the Palm Springs Air Museum. Greater Palm Springs won’t see much snow outside the blizzard of fun in this holiday pop-up. With over 60 tons of snow, it’s the perfect place for a snowball fight or making snow angels. Warm up with some cozy treats like s’mores and hot cocoa before enjoying some family time together and participating in fun holiday crafts. Kids can also watch their favorite Christmas characters come to life for a meet and greet, including Santa and his elves and Frosty the Snowman!

Location: Palm Springs

 

Breakfast With Santa at La Quinta Resort & Club

Dates: Dec. 15 and 22

La Quinta Resort & Club doesn’t just host holidays; it elevates them. Known for its Spanish-style architecture and world-class amenities, this sprawling resort transforms into a festive wonderland every December. Among its star-studded seasonal lineup of events and activities is Breakfast with Santa, where kids (and kids at heart) can share pancakes with the man in red.

Taking place on Dec. 15 and 22, this buffet breakfast is as indulgent as it is heartwarming. With a bloody mary, bubbles and mimosa bar for adults and whimsical holiday decor, it’s the perfect blend of festive fun and fine dining. Prices start at $50 for resort guests and $60 for non-resort attendees. Pro tip: Book early—this is a holiday highlight that fills up fast!

Location: La Quinta

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Palm Springs Aerial Tramway’s Tree Lighting

Date: Dec. 8

For a holiday experience like no other, join the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway’s annual tree lighting ceremony on Dec. 8! At 8,516 feet above sea level, this festive event offers stunning views and holiday cheer. Festivities start at 5:30 p.m. with performances by the Palm Springs High School Choir and String Quartet, emceed by KESQ’s Patrick Evans. The highlight of the evening is Abi Carter, “American Idol” season 22 winner and Coachella Valley native, lighting the 45-foot tree adorned with over 4,000 LED lights. The event, included with regular tram admission, promises a magical experience—don’t forget to dress warmly!

Location: Palm Springs

 

Boozehounds’ Holiday Paw Parade + Pet Consume Contest

Date: Dec. 14

Calling all pet parents and holiday enthusiasts! The Holiday Paw Parade, hosted by Boozehounds Palm Springs, is the cutest way to celebrate the season. This pet-friendly extravaganza will be held on Dec. 14, and it invites dogs, cats, and their humans to show off their best holiday looks. The parade kicks off at Victoria Park with coffee and donuts for early risers before winding its way to Boozehounds for an awards ceremony. Costumes range from hilarious to heart-melting, and celebrity judges will crown the best-dressed pets. Proceeds from registration benefit the Palm Springs Animal Shelter, so you can feel good while celebrating the season.

Location: Palm Springs

 

Celebrate the Season at The Gardens on El Paseo

Date: Dec. 6

Experience a touch of winter magic in the desert at The Gardens on El Paseo’s Celebrate the Season event. Held on Dec. 6, from 4-7 p.m., this free, family-friendly evening is the perfect way to kick off your holiday festivities in Palm Desert. Expect a joyful tree lighting ceremony, live holiday music, and even snowfall! Located in Palm Desert’s upscale shopping district, The Gardens on El Paseo offers more than just a festive vibe. Visitors can explore over 45 luxury retailers and indulge in delectable eats from its many restaurants. Whether you’re window shopping or snagging gifts, this is a celebration not to be missed.

Location: Palm Desert

 

Indio International Tamale Festival

Dates: Dec. 7-8

A true Coachella Valley classic, the Indio International Tamale Festival is a celebration of food, culture and community that has delighted visitors since 1992. Taking place Dec. 7-8, this event turns downtown Indio into a culinary playground featuring tamales of every kind. Embark on the Tamale Trail, where vendors serve up everything from traditional pork tamales to inventive dessert varieties. But it’s not just about the food. Enjoy live music, Folklorico performances and lucha libre wrestling at the Luchador Throwdown. Family-friendly fun includes free ice skating and thrilling carnival rides, making this Indio festival a must-visit for all ages.

Location: Indio

 

Winter Wonderland Public Skates

Dates: Dec. 6 and 13

Nothing says holiday spirit like ice skating under twinkling lights, and the Winter Wonderland Public Skates at Berger Foundation Iceplex deliver just that. Scheduled for Dec. 6 and 13, from 6:15 p.m. to 7:45 p.m., these festive evenings combine skating, holiday giveaways and a spectacular light show. Santa and Mrs. Claus will make a special appearance too, and guests who bring an unwrapped toy receive a free skate rental. Early birds (the first 200 skaters) will even walk away with a free Santa hat. Perfect for families, couples or solo adventurers, this Palm Desert activity offers a magical way to glide into the holiday season.

Location: Palm Desert