March in the Coachella Valley is pure magic. The weather is near perfect, the mountains are snow-capped, wildflowers begin to bloom, and the desert comes alive with some of the biggest cultural, culinary, art, and sporting events of the year.
At Desert Cities Home, we always say: If you want to understand why people fall in love with the desert - visit in March.
Here’s your complete guide to the top March 2026 events happening throughout La Quinta, Indian Wells, Palm Desert, Cathedral City, and Indio.
La Quinta Art Celebration
Held at the beautiful La Quinta Civic Center Campus, the La Quinta Art Celebration Spring 2026 returns with top-tier artists, enthusiastic collectors, and a true VIP experience for both patrons and exhibitors.
This nationally recognized fine art show features paintings, sculpture, photography, mixed media, and more - all set against the Santa Rosa Mountains.
📍 Location: La Quinta Civic Center Campus, La Quinta, CA 92253
📅 Dates: February 26 – March 1, 2026
⏰ Time: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Daily
🔗 Learn More: laquintaartcelebration.org
2026 BNP Paribas Open
The desert’s biggest global event takes place at the iconic BNP Paribas Open, hosted annually at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden.
With over 475,000 fans attending, this two-week tournament is the largest combined ATP and WTA event in the world, featuring the top players competing for more than $17 million in prize money.
The energy during tournament season transforms Indian Wells and surrounding cities into an international destination.
📍 Location: Indian Wells Tennis Garden, Indian Wells, CA
📅 Dates: March 1–15, 2026
⏰ Matches Begin: 11:00 AM PST (schedule subject to change)
🔗 Learn More: bnpparibasopen.com
Desert Smash
Now in its 22nd year, Desert Smash blends Grand Slam talent, A-list celebrities, pro-am tennis, pickleball, and high-end desert hospitality - all benefiting the USTA Foundation.
Hosted at the La Quinta Resort & Club Tennis Stadium (converted into a Pickleball Stadium Court for the event), this is one of the most glamorous ways to kick off tennis season.
📍 Location: La Quinta Resort Tennis Stadium
📅 Dates: March 2–3, 2026
🔗 Learn More: desertsmash.com
Cathedral City LGBT+ Days
Celebrating diversity and inclusion, Cathedral City LGBT Days is California’s first Pride event of the year.
Presented by Agua Caliente Casinos, the weekend includes:
- Tuesday March 3, 2026 - Cathedral City Drag Race
- Friday March 6, 2026 - Opening Ceremony & Pride Drone Show
- Saturday, March 7, 2026 - CommUNITY Strong Walk, LGBT+ Days Festival
- Sunday, March 8, 2026 - Bed Race, Parade & Marketplace & Closing Party
All festivities take place throughout Downtown Cathedral City, bringing together locals, visitors, and businesses in celebration.
📍 Location: Downtown Cathedral City
📅 Main Festival Dates: March 6–8, 2026
🔗 Learn More: cathedralcitylgbtdays.com
Coachella Valley Wildflower Festival
Spring in the desert means blooms.
The Coachella Valley Wildflower Festival celebrates native flora, conservation education, guided hikes, and artisan vendors. Even in average rainfall years, you’ll spot desert marigolds, primroses, lupines, and vibrant brittlebush across local trails.
This quieter, nature-focused event offers one of the Valley’s most special seasonal experiences.
📍 Location: Palm Desert Civic Center Park
📅 Date: March 7, 2026
🔗 Learn More: www.desertmountains.org
Art on Main Street in Old Town La Quinta
A beloved local tradition, Art on Main Street transforms Old Town La Quinta into an open-air gallery.
With over 100 artists showcasing paintings, jewelry, ceramics, sculpture, textiles, and photography, it’s the perfect way to spend a Saturday strolling through charming boutiques and cafes.
📍 Location: 78100 Main Street, La Quinta, CA 92253
📅 March Dates: March 7 & March 21, 2026
⏰ Time: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Admission and parking are free.
🔗 Learn More: oldtownlaquinta.com/art-on-main-street
Palm Desert Food & Wine Festival
Food lovers, this one’s for you.
The Palm Desert Food & Wine Festival brings renowned chefs, premium wineries, tastings, cooking demonstrations, and exclusive dining experiences to The Gardens on El Paseo.
It’s a celebration of culinary excellence set in one of the Valley’s most vibrant shopping districts.
📍 Location: The Gardens on El Paseo
📅 Dates: March 19–22, 2026
🔗 Learn More: palmdesertfoodandwine.com
Sunday Polo at Eldorado Polo Club
Few experiences define desert luxury like Sunday Polo at Eldorado Polo Club.
March features competitive tournaments including the Rossmore Cup (USPA National Event), Master’s Challenge, and the Sunday Polo Finale.
Whether you’re tailgating with friends or enjoying reserved viewing, it’s a true “Sport of Kings” experience.
📍 Location: 50950 Madison St, Indio, CA 92201
📅 Every Weekend in March 2026
Reservations required.
🔗Learn More: eldoradopoloclub.com
Why March Is One of the Best Months to Live (or Invest) in the Desert
Events like these are why the Coachella Valley continues to attract second-home buyers, luxury investors, retirees, and full-time residents from around the world.
March showcases:
- Walkable communities
- Outdoor lifestyle year-round
- International sporting events
- Strong tourism economy
- Vibrant arts and culture scene
From La Quinta to Indian Wells, Palm Desert to Rancho Mirage- this is peak desert living.
Thinking About Making the Desert Home?
At Desert Cities Home, we specialize in helping buyers and sellers navigate the Greater Palm Springs real estate market with clarity and confidence.
If you’re visiting for one of these events and find yourself imagining life here full-time, let’s talk.
March is a perfect time to explore neighborhoods, country clubs, investment properties, and luxury homes while the Valley is at its best.
