Events in the Desert

For all of the desert’s natural splendor and outdoor destinations, creativity comes with the territory, too. Throughout the year, the region finds ways to celebrate art, design, music, and film during events that draw top talent and big crowds from around the world.

"Music steals the spotlight during the two weekends of Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival"

It all begins with the Palm Springs International Film Festival, which has grown into one of North America’s largest and most prestigious events of its kind. The festival showcases both Academy Award-contending films and international cinema, and is also a great opportunity to spot the many celebrities who attend.

Fashionistas don’t have to go all the way to Paris to view the newest collections by both fabled and emerging designers, thanks to the runway shows during Fashion Week El Paseo in Palm Desert. Then in April, music steals the spotlight during the two weekends of Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival, a massive desert party (and a celeb magnet) where you can listen to legends (Paul McCartney, Prince), new bands, and everything in between at the Empire Polo Club grounds, south of Palm Springs. The polo grounds also host country’s biggest stars at the Stagecoach Festival, a foot-stomping good time with top bluegrass, folk, and country artists.