Things to do in palm springs in december 2022

Greater Palm Springs is filled with cheer this month with events for all ages, things to do for the whole family, holiday shopping, holiday performances and so much more. Start planning your month, checking off that shopping list, and filling your belly up with delicious food! 

EVENTS

BEYOND VAN GOGH - THE IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE 

DECEMBER 1 - DECEMBER 27

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to immerse yourself in the distinctive paintings by Vincent Van Gogh? Beyond Van Gogh - The Immersive Experience truly captures the luminous landscapes, expressive portraits, and emotional canvases! This event will take the viewer on a journey through over 300 iconic artworks including instantly-recognizable classics. Reserve your tickets as soon as you can because you do not want to miss Van Gogh's art come to life!

EL PASEO ART WALK

DECEMBER 2

The renowned El Paseo Art Walk, a long-standing tradition on El Paseo, is now happening on the first Friday of every month, from November through May. There will be exhibit openings, artist receptions and more. Enjoy seeing everything there is to admire from each gallery and entertaining stops along the way.

INTERNATIONAL INDIO TAMALE FESTIVAL

DECEMBER 3 - 4

The 30th anniversary of the Indio International Tamale Festival is happening this December at Miles Avenue Park. Buy your pass to all of the rides and attractions this year, you do not want to miss the deliciousness of this exciting event.

PALM SPRINGS VINTAGE MARKET

DECEMBER 4

Whether you are looking for midcentury modern décor, retro digs or antique finds, shopping in Greater Palm Springs this season is where you need to be–especially with the much-anticipated return of the monthly Palm Springs Vintage Market. This event occurs the first Sunday of the month until May.

IRONMAN 70.3 INDIAN WELLS & LA QUINTA

DECEMBER 5

The Trainual IRONMAN 70.3 Indian Wells – La Quinta has become popular and won the hearts of many. The new bike course will take athletes through challenging, beautiful flat county roads while they soak up the warm California sun. All IRONMAN events will have a village preceding race day. The village offers a great opportunity for athletes and the public to interact with official IRONMAN Partners and Vendors, and to pick up final race day essentials. 

MARGARITAVILLE RUN PALM SPRINGS

DECEMBER 10

The Margaritaville state of mind awaits you. This is the ultimate opportunity to enjoy a beautiful 5K run under the sun. The Margaritaville Run Series commits a portion of the series proceeds to Singing for Change (SFC), a national charity with local impact.

ART ON MAIN STREET 

DECEMBER 11

Old Town La Quinta is proud to present this event featuring over 100 artists each season showing and selling their paintings, jewelry, mixed media, photography, ceramics, glass, woodwork, textiles, sculptures, and more. The art shows are a local favorite and an Old Town tradition. Come for the art and stay for the day. Parking and admission are free.

SANTA PAWS 5K & LIL' ELF DASH

DECEMBER 17

Palm Springs Marathon Runners invites you to join the annual Santa Paws 5K, a dog-loving, fun, run/walk benefitting Guide Dogs of the Desert and local dog rescues. Each participant receives a 5-piece Santa suit that can be worn during the event and is then yours for keeps! This includes a jacket, pants, belt, hat and beard. Registration is limited so don't wait!

CV CELEBRATE: JORDIN SPARKS

DECEMBER 30

Come out and celebrate the end of the year and enjoy everything that makes Greater Palm Springs so amazing. Enjoy this spectacular event on El Paseo between Larkspur and San Pablo featuring amazing music from Grammy-Nominated artist Jordin Sparks. All ages are welcome and this celebration will have food trucks, bars, and many games and activities to experience.

FREE THURSDAY NIGHTS AT THE PALM SPRINGS ART MUSEUM

EVERY THURSDAY

The Palm Springs Art Museum has 28 galleries, two sculpture gardens, a 433-seat theatre, and a popular local bistro. Every Thursday they offer free admission to the public from 5-7 p.m.

PALM SPRINGS VILLAGEFEST 

EVERY THURSDAY

Villagefest takes place in downtown Palm Springs where the street is closed to create a relaxed, fun, and festive atmosphere full of food, artists, fashion, and other unique vendors.

ACRISURE ARENA EVENTS

This state-of-the-art sports and entertainment arena will not only host concerts, events, and meetings but will also be home to Coachella Valley Firebirds, an American Hockey League team affiliated with the NHL’s Seattle Kraken. See their upcoming events below: 

CHRIS ROCK & DAVE CHAPPELLE | DECEMBER 14

AN EVENING WITH THE DOOBIE BROTHERS | DECEMBER 15TH

GRUPO FIRME ENFIESTADOS Y AMANECIDOS ARENA TOUR | DECEMBER 16

CV FIREBIRDS VS. TUCSON ROADRUNNERS | DECEMBER 18, 20

CV FIREBIRDS VS. HENDERSON SILVER KNIGHTS | DECEMBER 23

CV FIREBIRDS VS. ONTARIO REIGN | DECEMBER 28

MAROON 5 WITH SPECIAL GUEST PJ MORTON | DECEMBER 31

HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS

The time has come! Spend your holidays under the sun or festive moonlight in Greater Palm Springs. Add this lineup of events, ice rinks, parades, tree lightings, and activities to your holiday schedule.

HISTORIC CASITA LIGHTING  | December 1 

CITY OF LA QUINTA TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY | December 2 

FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS PARADE  | December 3 

NORTH POLE VILLAGE & MAYOR'S TREE LIGHTING  | December 7

CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY at THE RITZ-CARLTON, RANCHO MIRAGE | December 8 

2022 HOLIDAY PARADE OF LIGHTS AND FESTIVAL  | December 10 

See the full list of the Holiday Happenings in Greater Palm Springs and start celebrating this month in this Christmas oasis.

HOLIDAY DINING

Let this month be filled with amazing foodie finds when you stay in this culinary oasis. If you are celebrating something special this month, experience fine dining and taste specially curated dishes by local chefs. December is also filled with perfect weather for dining outdoors at these restaurants with amazing views. 'Tis the season for delicious food and fellowship — plan your reservations for Holiday Dining in Greater Palm Springs.

GIFT AN EXPERIENCE

For those adventure-seekers looking to gift a special friend or loved one new heights, Greater Palm Springs is the place for you this month! With the beautiful weather and sunny skies, you are in the adventurer's haven at your fingertips! If you are looking for a unique and exciting experience for the family, grab your jacket and snow shoes and hop on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway to enjoy an afternoon of hiking. Find out more about how you can Gift an Experience in Greater Palm Springs.

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