Every November, communities across the Coachella Valley come together to honor the brave men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces. From heartfelt tributes and concerts to parades and family events, Veterans Day offers a time for reflection, gratitude, and unity. Whether you’re a local resident or visiting the desert this fall, here are the Veterans Day 2025 events happening across Greater Palm Springs and neighboring cities.
Palm Springs Veterans Day Parade & Concert “Honoring All Who Served”
November 11, 2025 at 3:30 p.m.
Downtown Palm Springs (Ramon Road to Alejo Road along Palm Canyon Drive)
psveteransday.com
One of the largest Veterans Day parades in Southern California, the Palm Springs Veterans Day Parade is a time-honored tradition that draws thousands each year. The city, officially recognized as a Regional Site for Veterans Day observance by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, proudly showcases military units, marching bands, and veterans’ organizations. The parade concludes with a stirring patriotic concert by the 300th Army Reserve Band and a brilliant fireworks finale at the main stage near Amado Road and Palm Canyon Drive—a fitting end to a day of remembrance and pride.
VillageFest – A Night of Thanks
November 6, 2025, 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Palm Canyon Drive, Downtown Palm Springs
Kick off Veterans Week in the heart of downtown Palm Springs at VillageFest – A Night of Thanks. This special edition of the beloved weekly street fair invites the community to write Letters of Thanks to veterans, which will be shared throughout the week. Veterans in attendance can pick up Challenge Coins from previous years and receive heartfelt messages of appreciation from neighbors and visitors alike. It’s a beautiful way to begin the week’s commemorations with kindness and gratitude.
Veterans Dinner & Concert in the Park – Palm Springs
Wednesday, November 12, 2025
Dinner: 5:00 p.m.–6:30 p.m. | Concert: 7:00 p.m.–8:30 p.m.
Downtown Park, 230 Museum Drive
Veterans and active-duty military personnel are invited to enjoy a complimentary dinner and patriotic concert hosted by the Palm Springs Parks and Recreation Department. Each attending veteran will receive a Letter of Thanks, a Challenge Coin, and an American Flag as a small token of the community’s appreciation. Surrounded by music and camaraderie, it’s a moving evening under the desert sky dedicated to honoring those who served.
Fields of Valor – Cathedral City
November 8–14, 2025
Patriot Park, 33998 Date Palm Drive, Cathedral City
discovercathedralcity.com
Each November, Patriot Park transforms into the Fields of Valor, a breathtaking sea of American flags honoring local veterans and active-duty service members. Each flag represents a hero, accompanied by a placard recognizing their name, branch, and years of service. This solemn and visually stunning display offers a quiet place for reflection, remembrance, and gratitude.
Veterans Day Cookout – Cathedral City
November 11, 2025, 5:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Cathedral City Community Amphitheater
discovercathedralcity.com
Celebrate the evening of Veterans Day with food, music, and community spirit at the Veterans Day Cookout in Cathedral City. Families, friends, and veterans gather at the Community Amphitheater for a relaxed and joyful evening featuring live entertainment and local fare. It’s a warm reminder of how shared appreciation can bring a community together.
Stars, Stripes, and Songs: A Celebration of Veterans – Palm Desert
November 10, 2025, 5:30 p.m. (Pre-Show Celebration), 7:00 p.m. (Performance)
McCallum Theatre, 73000 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert
mccallumtheatre.org
The McCallum Theatre hosts a vibrant USO-style show filled with music, dance, and heartfelt tributes to veterans. The evening begins with a pre-show patriotic celebration and transitions into a high-energy performance honoring the courage and resilience of America’s service members. This event perfectly blends entertainment and gratitude, echoing the spirit of the classic USO performances that boosted morale for generations of troops.
La Quinta Veterans Day Tribute
November 11, 2025, 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
La Quinta City Hall Courtyard
laquintaca.gov
The City of La Quinta hosts an intimate morning ceremony honoring veterans and their families. Set against the peaceful backdrop of City Hall’s courtyard, this tribute includes guest speakers, musical performances, and a heartfelt moment of reflection for those who have served and sacrificed for our nation.
Indio’s Annual Veterans 5K Run/Walk
November 11, 2025, 7:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
Empire Polo Club, 81800 Avenue 51, Indio
runsignup.com
Start Veterans Day with purpose and energy at Indio’s Annual Veterans 5K Run/Walk at the iconic Empire Polo Club. Runners and walkers of all ages are invited to participate, with proceeds supporting local veterans’ programs and community initiatives. It’s a meaningful way to honor service while promoting health and togetherness in the desert community.
United in Gratitude
From Palm Springs to Indio, every city across the desert has its own way of expressing gratitude to our nation’s heroes. These events remind us that Veterans Day is more than just a holiday—it’s a time to come together as a community, honor the sacrifices made, and celebrate the freedoms we enjoy.
At Desert Cities Home, we’re proud to support and stand beside our veterans. To all who have served and continue to serve—thank you for your courage, dedication, and love of country.
