The holiday season is just around the corner, and there’s no better way to kick off the festivities than with a magical tree lighting ceremony! Greater Palm Springs is lighting up with events that bring the community together to celebrate the joy of the season. From twinkling lights and live performances to holiday treats and visits from Santa, these ceremonies are perfect for creating cherished memories with family and friends. Whether you’re in Palm Desert, Coachella, Rancho Mirage, or beyond, there’s a celebration waiting for you. Here’s your guide to the best tree lighting events across the Coachella Valley for 2024.
PALM DESERT
Enchanted Desert Glow at The Shops on El Paseo
When: 4-6 p.m. Nov. 23
Where: The Shops on El Paseo
A winter wonderland comes alive at the Enchanted Desert Glow event at The Shops on El Paseo. As the sun sets, the community will count down to the lighting of the Christmas tree, and later enjoy the sounds of carolers, tasty treats and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus.
COACHELLA
Coachella Annual Christmas Tree Lighting
When: 5:30 p.m. Dec. 4
Where: Coachella City Hall, 1515 Sixth St.
Join Coachella city officials and local leaders as they flip the switch on the Christmas tree. Free giveaways, refreshments and photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus are also expected. Additionally, on Dec. 6, the city will hold its holiday parade for families to enjoy even more festive cheer.
RANCHO MIRAGE
Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage Tree Lighting Ceremony
When: 5:30-7:30 p.m. Dec. 4
Where: The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage, 68-900 Frank Sinatra Drive
Celebrate the season at the annual tree lighting ceremony at the Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage. Enjoy light treats as local carolers serenade you, complemented by a surprise guest appearance amidst the festive lights and decorations.
The River Tree Lighting Celebration
When: 6-8 p.m. Dec. 6
Where: The River at Rancho Mirage, 71-800 Highway 111
The annual tree lighting celebration at The River at Rancho Mirage is packed with holiday cheer and activities for everyone. Live music, seasonal treats (hot chocolate and a cocktail lounge for adults), activities, like ornament decorating and face painting, and a meet-and-greet with Santa will all be available for guests. Attendees are also encouraged to bring an unopened toy for children of all ages to donate to Riverside County Fire Department's annual Spark of Love toy drive.
INDIO
Indio Tree Lighting Ceremony
When: 5-10 p.m. Dec. 6
Where: Downtown Indio (Towne Street and Bliss Avenue)
Enjoy delicious food trucks, live holiday entertainment, free activities like photo ops and a snow activation, local school performances and, of course, a visit from Santa.
LA QUINTA
When: 6-8 p.m. Dec. 6
Where: La Quinta Civic Center, 78-495 Calle Tampico
The City of La Quinta will get in the holiday spirit with its annual tree lighting ceremony. The evening will include train rides, performances and a visit from Santa Claus.
PALM SPRINGS
Palm Springs Tree Lighting Community Celebration
When: 4-5:30 p.m. Dec. 6
Where: Frances Stevens Park, 500 N. Palm Canyon Drive
The annual tree lighting ceremony at Frances Stevens Park is one to not miss. Crafts, holiday music, caroling and more are expected. It's part of an exciting weekend in Palm Springs, which starts off with a festive VillageFest on Dec. 5, and includes the Festival of Lights parade on Dec. 7 and a fun day with Santa on Dec. 8.
Tree Lighting Ceremony at the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
When: 5:30 p.m. Dec. 8
Where: Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, 1 Tram Way, Palm Springs
Festivities begin with the Palm Springs High School choir and string quartet performing holiday favorites. Afterward, Indio native and "American Idol" winner Abi Carter will serve as the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway’s 2024 celebrity tree lighter. The tram’s 45-foot tree is comprised of more than 4,000 LED lights. The tree lighting ceremony is open to the public and is included with regular Tram admission.
CATHEDRAL CITY
When: 4-8 p.m. Dec. 14
Where: Cathedral City City Hall, 68-700 Ave. Lalo Guerrero, Cathedral City
A winter wonderland comes alive in the heart of Cathedral City. The annual Snowfest will include holiday music, an outdoor market, appearances from Santa and Mrs. Claus, the tree lighting ceremony, food and an ugly sweater contest.
DESERT HOT SPRINGS
Parade of Lights and Holiday Festival
When: 5:45-10 p.m. Dec. 14
Where: Desert Hot Springs City Hall, 11-999 Palm Drive
Get into the holiday spirit with the City of Desert Hot Springs' Parade of Lights, showcasing sparkly floats and dazzling displays. The parade starts at Palm Drive and Mission Lakes Boulevard and ends at Palm Drive and Second Street. Afterward, head to the Holiday Festival, where the annual tree lighting ceremony will take place, along with free carnival rides, photos with Santa Claus, face painting and more.
This season, let the sparkling lights and festive cheer of these tree lighting ceremonies bring warmth and joy to your holiday celebrations. Each event offers unique activities and magical moments that capture the spirit of the holidays in Greater Palm Springs. Whether you’re sipping hot chocolate, listening to carolers, or watching the tree light up the night sky, these gatherings are the perfect way to connect with the community and kick off the season. Make your plans, gather your loved ones, and get ready to experience the enchantment of the holidays in the desert!
