As the desert cools down and the season comes alive, November is one of the most exciting months to be in Greater Palm Springs. From colorful pride celebrations and world-class art shows to culinary festivals and family-friendly experiences under the stars, this month offers something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re a longtime local or visiting for the season, here’s your guide to some of the best events happening across our desert cities in November 2025.
Greater Palm Springs Pride
November 6–9, 2025
Various Palm Springs Venues
pspride.org
Celebrate love, diversity, and inclusion at one of the most vibrant weekends of the year! The Greater Palm Springs Pride Festival fills downtown with parades, live music, art, and community spirit. Expect colorful floats, international performers, and an atmosphere of pure joy that celebrates individuality and unity. With street fairs, block parties, and the grand Pride Parade, this is a can’t-miss event that captures the heart and soul of Palm Springs.
10th Annual Indio BBQ Festival
November 8, 2025 | 4:00–9:00 PM
Center Stage, 82881 Miles Ave, Indio, CA 92201
indio.org
Bring your appetite to Indio’s smoky and savory BBQ Festival! Now in its 10th year, this delicious community event features award-winning pitmasters, live entertainment, a family fun zone, and craft vendors. Savor mouth-watering ribs, brisket, and pulled pork while enjoying music under the desert night sky.
Veterans Day Across the Desert
Honor and remember the brave men and women who have served our country. Communities across the Coachella Valley host ceremonies, parades, and concerts in their honor.
👉 Check out our companion article dedicated to Veterans Day celebrations across the desert.
Desert Dressage
November 12–15, 2025
Desert International Horse Park, 85555 Airport Blvd, Thermal, CA 92274
deserthorsepark.com
For equestrian enthusiasts, Desert Dressage offers a spectacular display of precision, athleticism, and grace. Riders and horses from around the world compete in this elegant Olympic discipline. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Thermal desert, it’s a beautiful blend of sport and artistry that captivates spectators.
La Quinta Art Celebration
November 13–16, 2025
La Quinta Civic Center Park
laquintaartcelebration.org
Recognized as one of the top fine art festivals in the nation, the La Quinta Art Celebration returns this fall with breathtaking artwork from over 200 juried artists. Explore paintings, sculptures, jewelry, and photography while enjoying live music, fine wine, and gourmet bites. The stunning lakeside setting at Civic Center Park makes it an art experience like no other.
Palm Springs Food & Wine Festival
November 15–16, 2025
Palm Springs Stadium Pavilion, 1901 E Baristo Rd, Palm Springs, CA 92262
palmspringsfoodandwine.org
Savor two days of culinary excellence as chefs, vintners, and mixologists showcase their talents at the Palm Springs Food & Wine Festival. Sample exquisite dishes, discover new wines, and enjoy cooking demonstrations from some of the region’s best culinary talent. It’s a flavorful celebration of food, wine, and the desert’s growing gastronomic scene.
MAGIC OF LIGHTS COACHELLA VALLEY
November 18 – December 31, 2025
Empire Polo Club, 81800 Avenue 51, Indio, CA 92201
magicoflights.com
The holidays begin early with Magic of Lights, a dazzling drive-through holiday experience at the Empire Polo Club. This immersive light show features millions of sparkling LED lights, festive scenes, and family photo opportunities that capture the spirit of the season. Perfect for families, couples, and anyone ready to feel the magic of the holidays.
Cathedral City Hot Air Balloon Festival
November 21–23, 2025
Cathedral City
hotairballoonfest.com
Look to the skies as dozens of colorful balloons fill the horizon during one of the most photogenic events of the year. The Cathedral City Hot Air Balloon Festival includes morning balloon launches, evening “glows,” tethered rides, and a street fair with live entertainment and food. It’s pure desert magic that delights all ages.
Props and Hops Craft Beer Festival
November 22, 2025
Palm Springs Air Museum
palmspringsairmuseum.org
Pair your love of craft beer with vintage aircraft at the annual Props and Hops Festival. Held at the Palm Springs Air Museum, this event combines craft brews, food trucks, and live music with stunning displays of historic planes. A great event for beer lovers and aviation enthusiasts alike!
Thanksgiving Across the Desert
From community dinners to fine-dining feasts, the Coachella Valley offers plenty of ways to celebrate gratitude and good food.
👉 Check out our special Thanksgiving article featuring restaurants and events serving up unforgettable holiday meals across the desert.
Desert Arts Festival
November 28–30, 2025
The River at Rancho Mirage
westcoastartists.com
Shop for unique, handcrafted gifts just in time for the holidays at the Desert Arts Festival. Featuring local and regional artists, this open-air event highlights ceramics, glass, jewelry, fine art, and more, all surrounded by the scenic setting of The River in Rancho Mirage.
WildLights at The Living Desert
November 29 – December 26, 2025
The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens, Palm Desert
livingdesert.org
A holiday tradition returns! WildLights transforms The Living Desert into a glowing wonderland of over a million twinkling lights. Stroll through illuminated pathways, meet Santa, and enjoy live entertainment, a must-see for families and anyone seeking a little holiday cheer under the desert stars.
Discover the Energy of Desert Living
November in Greater Palm Springs captures the perfect balance between cool desert evenings and vibrant community spirit. From the roar of festival crowds to the quiet glow of WildLights, every event reminds us why life here feels so special. Whether you’re exploring as a visitor or dreaming of calling the desert home, Desert Cities Home is here to help you experience - and live - the best of desert life.
