Celebrate a Magical December in the Coachella Valley!

The Hamilton Real Estate Group November 30, 2025

December is one of the most vibrant months in the Coachella Valley, filled with holiday magic, world-class entertainment, lively festivals, and inspiring arts and culture. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly celebrations, outdoor adventures, live music, festive parades, or standout gallery events, the valley has something special happening every week. Here are some of the top events to enjoy this season.

THINGS TO DO

Celebrate Christmas

Magic of Lights: Through Dec 31. The Empire Polo Club in Indio transforms into a vibrant drive-through holiday light display. From the comfort of your vehicle, experience scenes like Winter Wonderland, the 12 Days of Christmas, and the 200-foot Enchanting Tunnel of Lights. Click HERE for more information.
Wildlights at the Living Desert: Thru Dec 30. WildLights at The Living Desert transforms the zoo into a sparkling winter wonderland with millions of lights, themed pathways, model trains, and holiday treats. It’s a fun, family-friendly tradition that brings the desert to life after dark. Click HERE for more information.
Festival of Lights parade: Dec 6. The Palm Springs Festival of Lights Parade lights up downtown with sparkling floats, marching bands, holiday performers, and plenty of community spirit. It’s one of the valley’s most beloved traditions and a must-see kickoff to the season. Click HERE for more information.
Gingerbread Lane: Dec 6, 13, 20. Gingerbread Lane in Old Town La Quinta offers a charming holiday stroll with festive décor, music, treats, and family fun. It’s a cozy, small-town celebration that brings the season to life in one of the valley’s most picturesque settings. Click HERE for more information
Sounds of the holidays: Dec 3, 4, 7, 10, 11, 14. Sounds of the Holidays at the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway features live choirs performing festive music amid stunning mountain views. It’s a unique and uplifting way to celebrate the season high above the desert. Click HERE for more information

Visit The Newly Restored Plaza Theatre

The long-anticipated reopening of the historic Plaza Theatre in Palm Springs brings new life to one of the city’s most beloved cultural landmarks. After an extensive restoration, the theatre returns with a vibrant December lineup, including festive film screenings, live performances, and special holiday events that celebrate its legacy while ushering in a new era of entertainment.

To View The Events Calendar, click HERE

Indio International Tamale Festival: Dec 7 - 8

The Indio Tamale Festival brings a lively, flavorful celebration to downtown Indio with hundreds of tamale vendors, handmade treats, live music, artisan booths, a festive carnival, and fun for all ages. It’s one of the region’s most iconic annual events, drawing food lovers from across the Valley and beyond. Whether you’re sampling traditional recipes, discovering creative new flavors, or just soaking up the vibrant atmosphere, it’s a delicious way to kick off the holiday season.

For more information, click HERE

Men Of The Desert Fashion Show: Dec 8

The Men of the Desert Fashion Show returns with a stylish, high-energy event benefiting the Humane Society of the Coachella Valley. Guests enjoy a mix of runway looks, great music, and lively entertainment as local men—and a few surprise personalities—model designer fashions for a good cause. It’s a fun, spirited fundraiser that brings together fashion, philanthropy, and plenty of holiday season cheer.

For more information, click HERE.

Santa Runs Palm Springs: Dec 20

Santa Runs Palm Springs brings a joyful burst of holiday spirit to downtown as hundreds of runners and walkers—many decked out in full Santa gear—take part in a festive 5K and 1-mile run. The event blends fitness, fun, and community pride, with music, cheering spectators, and plenty of holiday whimsy along the route.

For more information, click HERE.

Ironman Indian Wells—La Quinta: Dec 7

Ironman Indian Wells–La Quinta brings world-class athleticism to the desert as competitors take on a challenging swim, scenic bike course, and run through two of the valley’s most beautiful communities. Spectators line the route to cheer on athletes pushing for personal bests, creating an energizing, supportive atmosphere. .

For more information, click HERE.