Festive Holiday Events & Lights in Greater Palm Springs: 2021 Guide
Greater Palm Springs transforms into a winter paradise with sunny skies and sparkling palm trees. Stockings overflow with sunshine, and festive lights create magical evenings. Dive into the holiday spirit with these family-friendly events, displays, and experiences. Explore our guide to holiday performances for more seasonal cheer.
HOLIDAY LIGHTS AND DISPLAYS
City of La Quinta Tree Lighting Ceremony | Civic Center Park
Date: December 3 at 6 p.m.
Join the community for La Quinta's annual tree lighting and immerse your family in a enchanting winter wonderland. Free admission for all.
El Paseo's Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony | The Shops at El Paseo
Date: December 3 at 5 p.m.
Launch the holiday season amid twinkling lights, carolers, a grand tree, and festive décor. Capture memories with Santa and Mrs. Claus—ideal for holiday shopping and photos.
Festival of Lights Parade | Palm Springs
Date: December 4 at 5:45 p.m.
For 27 years, this beloved Palm Springs tradition has featured illuminated floats, tractors, marching bands, performers, and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus. Pure holiday magic!
North Pole Village & Mayor's Tree Lighting | Cathedral City Civic Center
Date: December 8 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Celebrate with a Hollywood-style North Pole Main Street, complete with lights, carolers, free movie screenings, and Santa. Free admission and parking for the whole family.
Parade of Lights & Holiday Festival | Desert Hot Springs
Date: December 11 starting at 5:45 p.m.
Theme: Storybook Christmas. Enjoy illuminated floats, then festivities with free carnival rides, Santa photos, face painting, cotton candy, and more. A joyful community event!
Greater Palm Springs Neighborhoods
Experience free holiday magic on a self-guided drive through lit-up homes, palm trees adorned with lights, wreaths, and holly. Pair with hot cocoa and carols for the perfect evening.
SEASONAL SHOPPING
Love Local Shopping Pass
Download the free app, check in at participating retailers while shopping, and enter sweepstakes. Each check-in donates $1 to FIND Food Bank—shop local and give back.
Alohana - A Celebration of Tiki Culture | Palm Springs Cultural Center
Date: December 12 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Infuse island vibes into holidays with Tiki cocktails, boxed lunches, live music, and unique artisan wares at this outdoor market. Support local creators.
HOLIDAY EVENTS & SHOWS
Merry Movie Nights | Gardens at El Paseo
Dates: Every Saturday, November 27 to December 18 at 5 p.m.
Cozy up outdoors for classics like The Grinch, Frozen, Elf, and The Santa Clause. Bring blankets and snacks. Tickets: $7 adults, $5 kids under 16 (available November 1).
Santa Fly-In and Winter Light Show | Palm Springs Air Museum
Dates: December 18-22 from 6 to 8 p.m.
Santa arrives by helicopter for photos and gifts, followed by a dazzling light show inside the museum.
Santa Paws 5K and Lil' Elf Dash | Palm Springs
Date: December 18 at 9 a.m.
Dress in provided Santa suits (5K) or elf shirts (Lil' Elf Dash for ages 10 and under). Bring leashed pets for this fun run benefiting Guide Dogs of the Desert.
FESTIVE PHOTO-OPS
Photos with Santa | Gardens on El Paseo
Date: December 4 from 9 a.m. to noon
Meet Santa for photos ($15 donation benefits Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Desert), plus lawn games and bubbles.
Paws N Claus | Gardens on El Paseo
Date: December 11 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Pets (cats/dogs, leashed or carried, vaccinated) pose with Santa. $15 photos support the Bianca Rae Foundation.
Cabazon Dinosaurs
Iconic Mr. Rex dons a Santa suit amid lights and garland. Pose in Santa's velociraptor-pulled sleigh, explore the dino trail, and grab treats from the Wafflesaurus Truck (select days).
Stay tuned for updates as the 2021 holidays near.
