Spending Christmas in Palm Springs is a little different than most places, and that’s part of the appeal. While a white Christmas is unlikely, the holidays in the Coachella Valley still come with plenty of festive events, lights, and seasonal traditions — often enjoyed in shorts, sandals, or by the pool.

If you’re visiting or staying local and want to get into the holiday spirit, here are some of the most popular things to do in Palm Springs and the surrounding Coachella Valley during the Christmas season.

Palm Springs Festival of Lights Parade & Tree Lighting

The Palm Springs Festival of Lights Parade is one of the city’s most beloved holiday traditions. Held annually on the first Saturday in December (typically early December), the parade features decorated floats, marching bands, special performances, and a visit from Santa Claus.

The celebration takes place in downtown Palm Springs along Palm Canyon Drive and is often paired with additional holiday festivities throughout the area.

Visit the official Festival of Lights website

Location: Downtown Palm Springs (Palm Canyon Drive)

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Candy Cane Lane (Cathedral City)

Just a short drive from Palm Springs, Candy Cane Lane is one of the Coachella Valley’s most popular holiday attractions. Each year, residents along Minerva Road in Cathedral City decorate their homes with lights, displays, and festive touches, turning the street into a seasonal favorite.

The displays typically run from late November through Christmas and into early January.

More:

Your complete guide to Candy Cane Lane in Cathedral City

Location: Minerva Road, Cathedral City

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Magic of Lights — Indio Drive-Through Holiday Light Show

Magic of Lights is a popular drive-through holiday light experience held at the Empire Polo Club in Indio. The display typically runs from mid-November through December 31 and features large LED scenes and classic holiday themes enjoyed from your car.

Learn more about Magic of Lights

Location: Empire Polo Club, Indio

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WildLights at The Living Desert

WildLights at The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens in Palm Desert is a long-running holiday tradition featuring millions of lights, themed displays, seasonal music, and evening access to parts of the zoo.

The event typically runs on select nights from late November through late December.

Visit the official WildLights page

Location: Palm Desert

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Snowtopia at the Palm Springs Air Museum

Snowtopia brings real snow to the desert for a limited number of nights in December at the Palm Springs Air Museum. The family-friendly event usually includes snow play areas, holiday activities, train rides, and visits with Santa.

View Snowtopia details and dates

Location: Palm Springs Air Museum

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Holiday Events at La Quinta Resort & Club

During the holiday season, La Quinta Resort & Club is known for festive decorations and seasonal programming. In past years, this has included holiday lights, movie nights, live music, and special events throughout December.

Explore holiday events at La Quinta Resort

Location: La Quinta

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Christmas at the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway often celebrates the holiday season with seasonal music, decorations, and special winter experiences at the Mountain Station. Depending on weather conditions, visitors may even encounter snow at the top.

Visit the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway website

Location: Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

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Holiday Markets, Carolers & Community Events

Throughout December, cities across the Coachella Valley host a variety of holiday markets, tree lightings, caroling, and community gatherings. Downtown Palm Springs often features seasonal additions to VillageFest, along with other pop-up holiday activities.

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Have a Great Christmas in Palm Springs

Whether you’re visiting for the holidays or celebrating close to home, Christmas in Palm Springs offers a mix of desert scenery, seasonal events, and relaxed traditions you won’t find anywhere else.

Bookmark this page and check back each year as holiday schedules and details are updated.

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Christmas in Palm Springs FAQ

Is Palm Springs a good place to visit for Christmas?

Yes. Palm Springs is a popular Christmas destination for visitors looking for warm weather, holiday events, and seasonal attractions without cold temperatures. Many events, lights, and activities take place throughout December.

Are there Christmas lights in Palm Springs?

Yes. Holiday lights can be found throughout Palm Springs and the Coachella Valley, including events like the Festival of Lights Parade, Candy Cane Lane in Cathedral City, WildLights at The Living Desert, and other seasonal displays.

Is Candy Cane Lane free to visit?

Yes. Candy Cane Lane in Cathedral City is free and open to the public. It is a residential street, so visitors are encouraged to be respectful of the neighborhood.

What is the best time to see Christmas lights in Palm Springs?

Most holiday light displays are best viewed after sunset. Early evenings on weekdays tend to be less crowded, while weekends closer to Christmas are usually the busiest.

Are Christmas events family-friendly in Palm Springs?

Many Christmas events in Palm Springs and the surrounding area are family-friendly, including light displays, parades, holiday markets, and attractions like Snowtopia and WildLights.