The Guide to Palm Springs Annual Events: When to Visit and Where to Stay

Palm Springs is more than a desert retreat; it is a global destination for design, music, and culture. Because the city operates on a seasonal rhythm, timing your visit is the difference between a quiet poolside weekend and being in the center of a world-class festival.

Whether you are here for the mid-century modern architecture or the high-energy atmosphere of Coachella, this guide breaks down the essential annual events in Palm Springs and how to navigate them like a local.

Winter: High Season and Heritage

January and February represent the peak of Palm Springs culture. The weather is crisp, the social calendar is full, and the city’s architectural history takes center stage.

Palm Springs International Film Festival (January)

As one of the largest film festivals in North America, this event kicks off the awards season. It draws A-list celebrities and international cinema enthusiasts. If you are visiting during this time, book your mid-century modern guest rooms well in advance, as the city reaches capacity quickly.

Modernism Week (February)

This is the definitive event for Palm Springs. Modernism Week celebrates the city’s iconic 1950s and 60s architecture through home tours, lectures, and parties. Del Marcos Hotel, designed by the legendary William F. Cody, sits at the heart of this movement. Staying in a historic property allows you to live the aesthetic rather than just touring it.

Spring: Music and Landscape

Spring brings the desert into bloom, both literally and figuratively. This is the busiest time for the Coachella Valley.

Coachella & Stagecoach (April)

While these festivals take place in Indio, many attendees prefer to stay in Palm Springs for a more sophisticated experience. After a day in the desert heat, retreating to a quiet, adults-only environment is essential for recovery. You can spend your mornings lounging by the pool or enjoying our onsite amenities before heading to the polo grounds.

BNP Paribas Open (March)

Located in nearby Indian Wells, this "fifth grand slam" attracts the world’s top tennis talent. It is a premier event for sports fans who enjoy the luxury lifestyle that Palm Springs offers.

Summer: The Local Secret

When the temperature rises, the pace of the city slows down. Summer is for those who want a curated, private experience without the crowds.

Greater Palm Springs Restaurant Week (June)

For food enthusiasts, June is the best time to explore the desert’s culinary scene. It is the perfect opportunity to visit Azucar, where Mediterranean-influenced flavors meet a stunning rooftop atmosphere.

Splash House (June & August)

This multi-venue pool party festival transforms the city into a vibrant, music-filled escape. It is high-energy and trendy, attracting a younger crowd looking for the ultimate summer weekend. If you are traveling with a large group for an event like this, consider a full hotel buyout to turn the property into your private desert compound.

Fall: Art and Pride

As the heat breaks, the city’s creative energy returns.

Palm Springs Pride (November)

Palm Springs hosts one of the most inclusive and celebrated Pride events in the country. The downtown area comes alive with parades, festivals, and block parties.

Modernism Week — October Preview

For those who cannot wait until February, the October Preview offers a smaller, more intimate look at architectural tours and events. It is an excellent time to visit if you prefer a more relaxed pace while still engaging with the design community.

Making the Most of Your Stay

Regardless of which event brings you to the desert, a few logistical tips can elevate your trip:

• Book Wellness in Advance: Event weekends are grueling. Schedule a treatment at Whispers Spa early to ensure you have a dedicated time to decompress.

• Bring the Dog: Don't leave your four-legged companions behind. Many Palm Springs events are outdoor-friendly, and we offer pet-friendly accommodations to make travel easier.

• The Midweek Advantage: If your schedule allows, arrive on a Thursday or stay through Monday. You’ll avoid the heaviest traffic on the I-10 and get better access to the city’s top dining spots.

  
  

Palm Springs is a city of seasons. Whether you are here for the red carpet or the architecture, there is a rhythm to the desert that rewards those who plan ahead.

Plan Your Visit Ready to experience the best of the desert? View our availability and secure your stay at Del Marcos Hotel for your next event.