We look forward to seeing you for the 2026/2027 season
As the holiday season approaches, it's time to plan a memorable Christmas getaway that combines the magic of the festive season with stunning surroundings. Look no further than Palm Springs – a desert oasis in Southern California with a unique blend of sunshine, relaxation, and festive cheer. Please check this page regularly for updates on new Palm Springs Holidays events.
Visit our Palm Springs Holidays Event Calendar
Palm Springs Holiday Market at VillageFest
Open every Thursday in December, 6 - 10 pm.
Get into the holiday spirit at VillageFest with the exciting kickoff event, "Jingle All the Way." This outdoor gift market is the perfect place to jumpstart your holiday shopping. From one-of-a-kind artworks to artisanal foods, you'll find something for everyone on your list. With live music, delicious treats, and a joyful atmosphere, "Jingle All the Way" at VillageFest is the ultimate destination for spreading holiday cheer and finding that perfect present. Free
Enjoy cookies with Mrs. Claus.
Tinsel Times Carolers
Courtesy of Palm Springs Unified School District
Sundays & Wednesdays, 5 - 7 pm.
Various locations downtown and along Palm Canyon Drive
Mrs. Claus has been known to visit Palm Springs over the holidays.
Palm Springs Holidays Events & Decorations
The Living Desert Zoo & Garden
Wildlights at the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens - This year, experience several new and reimagined light exhibits, including a 30-foot-tall holiday tree and lighted animal-themed displays. But don’t worry, many of your festive favorites are returning, such as the Tunnel of Lights, s'mores station, holiday carousel, photos with Santa, and much more! In true WildLights tradition, the G-scale model trains, with more than 3,300 feet of track, will be decked out for the holidays.
Address: 47900 Portola Ave.
The Plaza Theatre
- November 27, 7:30 pm - Christmas with the Drifters, The Platters & Cornell Gunter's Coasters | Buy Tickets
- November 28, 7:30 pm - Maria Bamford | Buy Tickets
- November 29, 7:30 pm - Big Bad Voodoo Daddy | Buy Tickets
- December 2, 7:30 pm - Meow Meow's Feline Festive | Buy Tickets
- December 3, 8 pm - a John Waters Christmas | Buy Tickets
- December 15 & 16, 7:30 pm, Jane Lynch's A Swingin' Little Christmas | Tickets for 15th | Tickets for 16th
- December 22, 7:30 pm - The Most Wonderful Time of the Year | Buy Tickets
- December 23, 7:30 pm - The Dean Martin Story Christmas Special | Buy Tickets
- December 24, 10 am & 2 pm - White Christmas Singalong | Buy Tickets
- December 26, 7:30 pm - The Mariachi Divas: A Holiday Celebration | Buy Tickets
Address: The Plaza Theatre - 128 S Palm Canyon Drive |
Palm Springs Parks & Recreations
It's The Most Wonderful Time of the Year Tree Lighting & Carols
Join Main Street Palm Springs along with the Mayor and City Council for the presentation of the annual Holiday Banner Awards to local student artists from Palm Springs Unified School District. Then the official City of Palm Springs Holiday Tree Lighting begins at 5:15 pm sharp. The event features holiday caroling and crafts for children, a visit from Santa Claus, and complimentary cookies and hot cocoa. Free
Address: Frances Stevens Park, 500 N. Palm Canyon Drive
Festival of Lights Parade - Saturday, December 5, 5:45 pm
The Palm Springs Festival of Lights Parade is on Palm Canyon Drive between Ramon Road and Tachevah Road. This beloved holiday parade features Macy's-style balloons, marching bands, floats, and much more. Free
Where: Palm Canyon Drive
Breakfast with Santa & Mrs. Claus - Saturday, December 19, 8 - 11 am:
Join Santa's little helpers for arts and crafts, gingerbread houses, and many fun photo opportunities! Enjoy a delicious breakfast with your friends and family, along with Santa and Mrs. Santa. Free
Address: Leisure Center & Pavilion - 401 S Pavilion Way
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
Breakfast with Santa - Saturday, December 5, 8:30 to 10:30 am.
Join Mr. and Mrs. Claus for breakfast at the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway for holiday crafts and storybook readings. Breakfast with Santa tickets are $55 for adults and seniors and $42 for children (ages 3-10). Tram fare is included. Enjoy French toast, scrambled eggs, Belgian waffles, fresh fruit, bacon, pork sausage, and assorted pastries. Advanced tickets are required and can be made by calling (760) 325-1449. Availability is limited.
Santa at Mountain Station - Saturday, December 5, 11 am - 3 pm
Santa will be stopping by the Mountain Station’s Pines Café. Children can share their Christmas lists with Santa himself, pose for photos, and receive a free candy cane. Santa’s visit is included in the general tram fare admission. Tram tickets are $34.95 for adults, $31.95 for seniors, and $18.95 for children (ages 3 - 10).
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway's Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony - Sunday, Dec 6, 5:30 pm
Lighting the Tram’s iconic 45-foot tree, covered in over 4,000 lights. There will be performances by the Palm Springs High School choir and string quartet.
Snapshots with Santa, Noon - 2 pm
Address: 1 Tramway Road
Desert Winds Concert Band
Desert Winds Concert Band at Palm Springs Downtown Park - Wednesday, December 9, 4 - 5:30 pm - Free
Walk of the Inns
Thursday, December 10, 4 pm
Free, self-guided walking tour to explore the local hotel holiday scene. Pick up a map and flashlight at the Palm Springs Art Museum.
Explore the unique charm and hospitality of Palm Springs at the annual Walk of the Inns. This free, self-guided walking tour invites locals and visitors to experience the vibrant holiday scene. This annual tradition offers a delightful way to discover the eclectic hotel properties nestled between Ramon Road and Tahquitz Canyon Way.
Palm Springs Air Museum
Snowtopia at the Palm Springs Air Museum - Friday, Dec. 18 - 21
Come to the Palm Springs Air Museum to experience a Winter Wonderland for the entire family! Santa Claus and his friends will arrive at the Air Museum each evening to greet all the good little girls and boys who have come to see him. In addition, there will be a playground featuring 60 tons of real snow, craft-making activities, hot chocolate, s'mores, pizza, and more. Frosty the Snowman, Elves, and Mrs. Claus will be on hand for photos galore. Snowtopia is open from 6 - 9 pm. Children 5 and under are admitted free of charge.
Address: 745 N Gene Autry Trail
Santa Paws 5K Run/Walk
Saturday, December 19, 8:30 am
This is a one-of-a-kind 5K event where every participant can be Santa Claus. Each participant receives a Santa suit to wear during the event, which they keep. All participants run, walk, or stroll the 5K (3.1-mile) route, or stroll with strollers or their pets. Following the 5K is a 200-meter Elf Dash for children 10 and under. The kids’ event entry is $15 and includes a finisher medal! Register.
Where: 332 W Alejo Road | Register (not open yet)
