As the temperatures cool and the desert air turns crisp, Thanksgiving in the Coachella Valley offers a uniquely beautiful and welcoming atmosphere. While much of the country braces for chilly weather and gray skies, the desert glows with sunshine, mountain views, and the warmth of community spirit. Whether you’re hosting loved ones at home, joining a festive local event, or enjoying a gourmet dinner out, the desert offers countless ways to celebrate the season of gratitude.
Start the Day with a Tradition That Gives Back
Martha’s Village & Kitchen Annual Thanksgiving Day 5K
November 27, 2025 | 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. | El Paseo, Palm Desert
Learn more here
Kick off your Thanksgiving morning with a beloved local tradition that combines fitness, family, and community giving. The annual Martha’s Village & Kitchen 5K on El Paseo in Palm Desert brings together runners and walkers of all ages to raise awareness and support for one of the Coachella Valley’s most impactful nonprofits. Whether you’re participating for fun, fitness, or philanthropy, the energy along El Paseo is infectious—with live music, cheering locals, and a wonderful sense of unity to start the day on a meaningful note.
Savor Thanksgiving Dinner, Desert-Style
After a morning of giving thanks (and maybe a brisk 5K), there’s no better way to continue the celebration than with a relaxing and delicious Thanksgiving meal. Across Greater Palm Springs, some of the area’s most renowned restaurants are offering special holiday menus that blend traditional favorites with local flavor and creative flair.
Here are just a few standout options where you can dine and unwind this Thanksgiving:
-
POM at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino – Enjoy a refined Thanksgiving feast with seasonal dishes and desert-inspired elegance.
-
Wally’s Desert Turtle – A local institution offering a classic, upscale holiday dining experience.
-
The Bistro at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino – Perfect for those seeking a relaxed yet sophisticated setting.
-
The Terrace at Desert Willow Golf Resort – Dine with a view and enjoy the beautiful greens and mountain backdrop.
-
Bellatrix Restaurant & Wine Bar – Ideal for wine lovers looking to pair fine vintages with their Thanksgiving favorites.
-
Eight4Nine Restaurant & Lounge – Known for its chic atmosphere and modern take on classic dishes.
-
Willie’s Modern Fare – Elegant and contemporary, with an innovative menu sure to impress.
-
Pacifica Seafood Restaurant at The Gardens – A refreshing seafood-forward twist on the holiday spread.
-
Spencer’s Restaurant – Nestled at the base of the San Jacinto Mountains, offering cozy elegance.
-
Si Bon Belgian Bistro – A European-style Thanksgiving experience with local flair.
-
The Pink Cabana – A stylish and vibrant choice with Mediterranean-inspired cuisine.
-
Del Rey Restaurant & Bar at Villa Royale – A charming, intimate spot with vintage desert vibes.
-
Lulu California Bistro – Perfect for a lively downtown Palm Springs holiday celebration.
-
Agua Caliente Casino Cathedral City
-
Agua Caliente Resort Casino Spa Rancho Mirage
-
Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs – All offering special Thanksgiving menus with a touch of luxury and fun.
Why the Desert is the Perfect Place to Give Thanks
Thanksgiving in the Coachella Valley is more than a holiday—it’s an experience. The golden sunsets, the gentle warmth of the season, and the spirit of community all come together to create a truly memorable atmosphere. It’s a time when locals and visitors alike gather to reflect on gratitude, enjoy incredible food, and celebrate life under the desert sky.
Whether you’re running for a cause, hosting family in your desert home, or treating yourself to an unforgettable dinner, Thanksgiving in the desert offers something for everyone. At Desert Cities Home, we’re thankful to be part of such a vibrant, generous, and inspiring community—one that reminds us every day why the desert truly feels like home.
