When summer rolls into Palm Springs, it brings with it more than just sun and heat. It’s a season packed with personality, community events, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re a local or a first-time visitor, there’s no shortage of things to do. From cultural showcases and music festivals to poolside parties and patriotic celebrations, Palm Springs delivers the kind of summer memories you’ll be talking about for years. If you’re planning a Palm Springs summer getaway, be sure to time it around some of these standout events. We’re breaking down the top ones you simply can’t miss.
VillageFest
Every Thursday evening, downtown Palm Springs transforms into a lively pedestrian fair known as VillageFest. Palm Canyon Drive is closed to cars and lined with vendors offering everything from handmade jewelry to fresh local produce. During the summer months, VillageFest runs from 7 to 10 PM, taking advantage of the cooler desert evenings.
This is more than just a street fair. It’s a community gathering that showcases the best of Palm Springs culture. You’ll hear live music as you wander through the booths, and the smell of fresh kettle corn and grilled meats drifts through the air. Artisans from all over bring their creations, making it a great place to pick up unique souvenirs. The event draws locals and tourists alike, creating a fun, welcoming vibe every week.
If you’re traveling with family or friends, it’s a perfect mid-week activity that lets everyone explore at their own pace. Grab a frozen lemonade, listen to a local band, and take in the atmosphere that only Palm Springs can offer. VillageFest is a tradition that’s stayed strong for years because it continues to capture the spirit of the city. Don’t leave town without experiencing it at least once.
Palm Springs International ShortFest
Film lovers will want to make room in their schedule for the Palm Springs International ShortFest. Held over seven days, this is one of the largest short film showcases in North America and a favorite stop for industry professionals. With more than 300 short films from over 60 countries, it’s a rich and diverse viewing experience. The films are broken up into curated 90-minute blocks, so it’s easy to attend just one session or plan a full day of cinematic exploration.
What sets ShortFest apart is the direct connection between audience and filmmaker. After many screenings, directors and producers join Q&A panels to discuss their work. It’s a rare opportunity to hear the stories behind the films and understand the inspiration and challenges that brought them to life. This access gives the event a personal, intimate feel despite its global scale.
For those in the film industry, ShortFest also includes a full forum of panels, roundtables, and networking events. Even if you’re not in the business, it’s a fascinating peek behind the scenes of the creative process. Whether you’re watching a quirky animated short or a hard-hitting documentary, there’s something for every taste. Don’t underestimate the power of a short film to make a lasting impression. ShortFest will have you laughing, crying, and thinking deeply in just under 40 minutes.
Fourth of July Festivities
Palm Springs knows how to celebrate the Fourth of July in true desert fashion. The events are spread out across multiple days, creating a long weekend full of patriotic fun. It all kicks off at VillageFest on July 3 with a themed night featuring red, white, and blue decorations, live music, games for the kids, and plenty of festive treats. It’s the perfect start to a weekend of celebration.
On July 4, the action moves to the Palm Springs Swim Center for the All-American Pool Party. From 3 to 10 PM, the center comes alive with inflatable slides, poolside music, games, and delicious food. Whether you’re relaxing in the water or enjoying the entertainment on dry land, it’s a family-friendly environment that captures the spirit of summer.
Later in the evening, make your way to Palm Springs Stadium for a baseball game followed by the grand finale: the All-American Fourth of July Fireworks Spectacular. The stadium opens early, so grab your seats, enjoy the game, and stick around for one of the best firework displays in the region. The show lights up the desert sky in a patriotic display that draws visitors from all over.
As if that weren’t enough, the weekend wraps up with a Dive-In Movie Night at the swim center. On July 5, float in the pool while watching a classic like “Captain America” on the big screen. It’s a unique way to close out the holiday, especially with kids in tow. The entire lineup offers a mix of activity, relaxation, and community spirit that makes it a highlight of the summer.
Palm Springs Summer Fun at Splash House
Splash House is not your average music festival. Held over two weekends in August, it takes over three of Palm Springs’ most iconic resorts, including the Renaissance, The Saguaro, and The Riviera, and transforms them into an exciting music and party experience. With poolside stages, top-tier DJs, and a lively, energetic crowd, Splash House has built a reputation as one of the must-attend events in the area.
The vibe here is different. Think tropical drinks, bright floaties, and nonstop music that spans house, electronic, and pop. Each resort becomes its own little oasis of sound and color, with shuttles making it easy to hop between venues. You’ll find rooftop parties, after-hours sets, and unexpected moments that turn into lifelong memories. It’s high energy but never chaotic, thanks to thoughtful planning and a community of attendees who come to celebrate summer together.
Splash House also appeals to design and fashion lovers. The hotels are decked out in Instagram-worthy setups, and the crowd leans stylish without being overly curated. It’s a place to express yourself, dance freely, and soak up the Palm Springs sunshine. Even if electronic music isn’t usually your thing, the atmosphere alone is worth the experience.
Father’s Day Fun
While Father’s Day happens in June, many families plan their summer trips around it. Palm Springs is a great place to treat Dad to a weekend he won’t forget. From outdoor adventures to fine dining, there’s something here to match every dad’s style. Start the day with a hike through Indian Canyons or Tahquitz Canyon, where scenic views and natural beauty create a peaceful start to the day. If your group enjoys biking, the city has plenty of paths that weave through the palm-lined streets and scenic desert landscapes.
If Dad is into golf, tee times at courses like Escena or Tahquitz Creek are easy to book and come with sweeping mountain views. After the game, head to one of the city’s top steakhouses or grab a cold one at a local brewery. For something more relaxing, book a spa session or just lounge by the pool at your vacation rental.
Palm Springs also offers cultural spots like the Palm Springs Air Museum, where aviation lovers can explore historic aircraft and learn about the role of airpower in past conflicts. It’s a day that can be as laid-back or as packed as you want. Either way, Dad is going to feel celebrated.
Food Truck Fridays
Kick off your weekend right at Food Truck Fridays in Downtown Indio. This popular weekly event brings together a rotating lineup of local food trucks offering everything from gourmet burgers and street tacos to ice cream and vegan bites. From 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. every Friday, Towne Street and Bliss Avenue transform into a hub of flavors, music, and fun.
This isn’t just about food. Food Truck Fridays are a full-on community hangout where families, couples, and groups of friends gather to enjoy the desert evening. Local musicians set the tone with live performances that range from acoustic sets to lively bands, and the whole atmosphere feels festive but laid-back. The event is pet friendly too, so even your four-legged companions can join in on the fun.
What makes Food Truck Fridays stand out is the variety. Every week brings something new to try, whether it’s a twist on a classic or something totally unexpected. Grab a cold drink, pull up a chair at one of the communal tables, and take your time sampling your way through the vendors. There’s usually plenty of space to relax and people-watch, and the setting sun gives the whole scene a warm desert glow.
If you’re staying in Palm Springs or one of the nearby cities, Food Truck Fridays are a great excuse to venture out and experience a different side of the area. It’s casual, it’s delicious, and it captures the local flavor of Indio in every sense. Plan your Friday evening around it, you won’t regret it.
Book Your Summer Rental with Ryson Vacations
No matter which summer event brings you to Palm Springs, Ryson Vacations has the perfect home base for your stay. Our Palm Springs vacation rentals are designed to meet the needs of all types of travelers, from large family groups and friend reunions to solo adventurers and romantic getaways. Whether you want to stay near the buzz of downtown or enjoy the serenity of Desert Hot Springs, our properties are spread across Palm Springs, Indio, La Quinta, and beyond.
Ryson rentals include everything you’d want in a high-end vacation property. Enjoy the privacy of your own pool or hot tub, relax under the stars next to a fire pit, or start your mornings on a balcony with a view. Many of our homes come with fitness rooms, EV chargers, pet-friendly setups, and modern appliances that make every stay easy and comfortable. You can also count on responsive guest services and optional concierge help, making your trip as hands-off or hands-on as you want.
Imagine coming home after VillageFest or a pool party at Splash House to your own peaceful space. Cook dinner in a fully stocked kitchen, take a dip in the pool, or just kick back in a sleek, air-conditioned living room. With options ranging from cozy condos to sprawling estates, Ryson has a fit for every vibe. Your Palm Springs summer getaway deserves a stay that’s just as memorable as the events themselves.
Make Summer Unforgettable
Palm Springs in summer is anything but sleepy. The city is alive with culture, music, and celebration, and there’s something to match every interest. Whether you’re visiting VillageFest, diving into indie cinema at ShortFest, dancing all weekend at Splash House, or just looking for the perfect Father’s Day retreat, Palm Springs delivers. Book your summer stay today and experience Palm Springs at its best!
No matter what time of year adventurers are fortunate enough to be spending their time in scenic Palm Springs in the name of vacation, they’re in for a travel treat. Here, sunshine abounds year-round and the options for customized fun and entertainment in this lovely Coachella Valley destination are vast and varied. In every season, Palm Springs earns its reputation for excellence thanks to a wide variety of signature local events that bring in visitors from near and far. If you find yourself traveling to California in spring, the following are just some of the top events in April in Palm Springs that you won’t want to leave off your list this year.
Check Out the Best of VillageFest
If you’re spending time in Palm Springs this April with the entire family in tow, a great event to attend with something for visitors of all ages to enjoy is VillageFest. This weekly event is hosted every Thursday in April in downtown Palm Springs making it an accessible experience to add to your lineup no matter how many other attractions or landmarks you happen to have on your itinerary. When VillageFest comes around, downtown transitions into a vibrant and lively street fair where you can enjoy live musical entertainment, indulge in delicious food, and pop in and out of shops at your own leisurely pace as well. From the vendors selling one-of-a-kind crafts to the fun and festive ambiance, it’s an event you might find yourself lingering at longer than you originally planned this April.
Experience Desert X 2025 for Yourself
Your April getaway to Palm Springs puts you right on time to be a part of the Desert X 2025 experience this year. This Coachella Valley exhibition will run from May 8 through May 11, 2025, making April the perfect time to check out the displays carefully curated by Artistic Director Neville Wakefield and Co-Curator Kaitlin Garcia-Maestas. The exhibition is designed to put a lens on the local desert’s evolution, emphasizing themes of design activism, indigenous futurism, and the imprint humanity leaves on the land in pursuit of emerging technologies. The exhibit is setup to inspire and allow visitors to question many unique topics thanks to works of art on display by globally renowned artists like Sanford Biggers, Jose Davila, Agnes Denes, Cannupa Hanska Luger, Raphael Hefti, Kimsooja, Kapwani Kiwanga, Sarah Meyohas, Ronald Rael, Alison Saar, and Muhannad Shono to name a few of many.
See Chris Bennett Take to the Stage
Music enthusiasts with a passion for Broadway-style performances can look forward to enjoying performances by Chris Bennett at the Palm Springs Purple Room each Tuesday and Thursday at 4:00 pm and 6:00 pm throughout the month of April. Make your way to 1900 East Palm Canyon Drive to enjoy the stylings of this incredible Grammy-nominated artist who brings specialists in vocals, piano, and composition to the stage with every show. Originally from Illinois, Chris Bennett began her career singing alongside Dean Martin and Jim Nabors before singing backup for Donna Summer. When you enjoy one of her shows in Palm Springs this April, there’s a good chance you’ll be treated to selections of Broadway show tunes as well as pieces from the Great American Songbook alongside original compositions.
Infuse Artistic Inspiration into Your April Stay
If you’re the type of traveler who is always looking for added inspiration when you adventure somewhere new, you’ll want to be sure to check out the first Wednesday Art Walk in Palm Springs this April which will be held on April 2, 2025. This event is hosted rain or shine and is a chance to pop in and out of some of Palm Springs’ most inviting art galleries between 5:00 pm and 7:00 pm. Along the way, you’ll find there’s plenty of delicious food to try too and often, live musical entertainment on the streets to add to the festival ambiance of this creative experience designed to showcase some of the area’s great galleries and artists.
Enjoy the Coachella Music Festival
A true highlight of a trip to Palm Springs in April is the opportunity to be a part of the iconic Coachella Music Festival fun! Hosted at the Empire Polo Club in nearby Indio, this music festival is one that draws in crowds from across the map with good reason. This year, weekend one of Coachella will be held April 11 through April 13, 2025, and weekend two will be hosted April 18 through April 20, 2025. No matter what weekend you choose to attend, be sure to purchase your tickets in advance as spots sell out fast for performances by some of the music world’s biggest names each year.
Book an Incredible Palm Springs Getaway in Style This April
When you’re excited to find yourself in Palm Springs this April, be sure your accommodations include the elevated standards of luxury, comfort, and style you deserve by booking your place through Ryson Vacations. Reach out today to learn more about our inspired portfolio of rental options available and how we can help you design a trip this April to remember!
For some, the arrival of winter and the cold and snow it brings with it is something to look forward to each year. For others, it’s the sure sign of the season to head out of town and set their sights on sunnier horizons. When you find yourself falling into the latter category, and you’re looking for a place to enjoy a winter stay that’s warm, sunny, and endlessly inviting, Palm Springs, California checks every box on that list. No matter how long you have despair in the name of getaway fun, heading to Palm Springs in the wintertime is always a great option. Whether you’re in town to soak up the sunshine, or you’re looking to make the most of festive holiday entertainment, the following winter events in Palm Springs are sure to make your getaway truly magical.
Check Out the Festival of Lights Parade
A great winter event that’s always highly anticipated in Palm Springs is the annual Festival of Lights Parade. This family-friendly gathering is typically hosted toward the beginning of December, and often kicks off around 6:00 PM along Palm Canyon Drive, right in the heart of Palm Springs. You’ll want to show up early to make sure you get a great spot and the best views. When you do, you’ll find that the effort was worth your while! This winter parade is known and loved by locals and visitors alike for its vibrant performances, highlighted marching bands, and special attendees like Mickey and Minnie who are sure to thrill the littlest ones in your traveling crew. From the floats and the music to the fantastic fare, the Festival of Lights Parade is one you simply won’t want to miss this year.
Wintertime Holiday Dining with a Bird’s Eye View
No matter when you make your way to Palm Springs in the name of vacation fun, a trip up the iconic Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is essential. It’s earned the title of the world’s largest rotating tram car and the views you’ll enjoy as you travel the two and a half miles up the cliffs overlooking the Chino Canyon are nothing less than breathtaking. The tram transports passengers to the higher elevation wilderness of the Mt. San Jacinto State Park and it’s here that over the holidays, you can pair your ride with a delicious winter dish at the Pines Café. This one-of-a-kind eatery is traditionally open until 8:00 pm on weekdays and until 8:30 pm on the weekends. The setting is cafeteria style, and you’ll find everything from salads and wraps to sandwiches within easy reach. This casual dining experience is open to visitors on Christmas Day when you can purchase a ride and dine ticket and enjoy a meal here between 11:00 am and 8:00 pm.
Experience the Winter Light Show and Santa Fly-In for Yourself in Palm Springs
When a little holiday magic would go a long way toward your winter fun in Palm Springs, adding a stop at the Palm Springs Air Museum this time of year is always the right choice. In mid-December, the Palm Springs Air Museum hosts the annual Winter Light Show and Santa Fly-In which brings families out in droves to enjoy seeing the museum transformed into a “winter wonderland,” right in the heart of sunny California. During the event, 60 tons of authentic snow are dropped around the museum between 6:00 pm and 9:00 pm and Santa makes an appearance too for a meet-and-greet with little ones. There’s a holiday train to enjoy, s’mores to cook over outdoor firepits, and food trucks set up for any other cravings that might come calling as you explore. This is a wonderful opportunity for seasonal photos and there are plenty of cookies and hot chocolate to go around. After you watch Santa fly in with the snow, you can head over to the craft and holiday shopping area set up inside the Miles Hangar.
Attend the Wild Lights Holiday Festival
Your winter getaway to Palm Springs puts you within easy reach of the annual Wild Lights Holiday Festival over at the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens in Palm Desert. Hosted on select nights between November and December, this event typically runs from 6:00 pm until 9:00 pm and is a chance to explore displays that combine millions of twinkling holiday lights with animal-inspired lanterns too. The illuminating result is sure to inspire, and you won’t want to miss admiring the 30-foot holiday tree that works as a centerpiece of the event. From the tunnel of lights to stroll through to the s’mores stations and holiday carousel, Wild Lights might just end up being the highlight of your winter trip.
Book Your Winter Getaway to Palm Springs Today
When a winter getaway to Palm Springs is calling your name, the team at Ryson Vacations has the accommodations you need to infuse luxury, comfort, and style into every day of your stay. Reach out today to learn more and to start planning!