October in the Coachella Valley is one of the most exciting times of the year. As the weather begins to cool and the desert comes alive with activity, residents and visitors alike can enjoy a full calendar of music, art, food, culture, and community gatherings. From world-class festivals to cherished local traditions, this month offers something for everyone — whether you’re strolling through an art studio, dancing under the stars, or celebrating with neighbors on El Paseo. Here’s a roundup of the must-see events happening across the desert this October.
Hwy 62 Open Studio Art Tours
Explore the vibrant art community of the high desert — up close and personal.
Over the first three weekends in October, the Hwy 62 Open Studio Art Tours offers a rare opportunity to travel a self-guided route through the Morongo Basin’s creative heart. From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays, nearly 200 artists across 133 studios open their doors to the public, inviting visitors into their private workspaces to view, discuss, and purchase original pieces.
- Expect maps, studio hops, music, and one-of-a-kind finds—read more here for featured artists and smart routes or go directly to Hwy62ArtTours.org .
When: October 4–5, 11–12, 18–19, 2025
Palm Desert Concerts in the Park
The beloved Palm Desert Concerts in the Park series is back this October, lighting up the Civic Center stage every Thursday evening from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Gather your family, friends, and neighbors, pack a picnic, and spread out a blanket for a night of live music under the desert sky. Each week features a different performance, with something for every taste — from rock and country to a variety of other genres. Best of all, admission is free, making it the perfect way to welcome the cooler season and soak in the beauty of a refreshing desert evening.
When: October Thursdays in October, Starting October 2
The lineup of acts is as deep and diverse as ever, including:
- October 2 – Pulp Vixen, an all-female band covering hits from the 80’s to today
- October 9 – BEACH St. A GoGo!, playing classic hits from the 60’s
- October 16 – Fortunate Son, covering Creedence Clearwater Revival and John Fogarty hits
- October 23 – The Silverados, delivering classic and contemporary hits from the world of Country music
- October 30 – Britain’s Finest, recreating the magic of The Beatles
Joshua Tree Music Festival
A soul-filled, family-friendly festival, JTMF brings global grooves, sunrise yoga, hands-on playshops, and vibrant art at every turn. It’s a place to discover your next favorite band, dance from day into night, and embrace the community spirit that makes this gathering a beloved fall tradition. At JTMF, the desert becomes freedom, music transforms into power, and community is the heartbeat that ties it all together. At JTMF, “The desert is freedom, music is power, and community is crucial.” Or go directly to JoshuaTreeMusicFestival.com.
When: October 9–12, 2025
Paint El Paseo Pink
Paint El Paseo Pink is a cherished community walk held each October along El Paseo, uniting friends, families, and neighbors to raise awareness for breast cancer and critical funds for the Desert Cancer Foundation (DCF). Every step you take — and every dollar raised — helps provide life-saving cancer care and treatment to local residents in need of financial support. The morning begins with a kickoff at 7:30 a.m., followed by the walk at 8:00 a.m. Join us in making a difference and painting the town pink!
When: October 11, 2025 & Kickoff at 7:30 a.m., Walk starts at 8:00 a.m.
Where: El Paseo, Palm Desert
YUM Food Fest & Night Market
Experience Yum Fest at The Shops at Palm Desert — where food, culture, and community come together in a lively open-air night market! Savor some of the best bites from SoCal and beyond, explore unique artisan and cultural vendors, enjoy live music, and sip refreshing drinks at the full bar (21+ with valid ID). Bring the whole family for fun activities including carnival games, face painting, and more. Food trucks & pop-ups, artisan vendors, live entertainment, full bar (beer, chavelas, seltzers, mixed drinks & more), kids’ activities, and endless community fun. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind celebration of flavor, culture, and creativity!
Inspired by global open-air night markets, Yum Fest transforms The Shops at Palm Desert into a culinary wonderland, connecting foodies, locals, and travelers for an unforgettable evening under the desert sky.
When: October 11-12, 2025
Saturday, October 11 from 3pm - 10pm & Sunday, October 12 from 3pm - 10pm
Where: South East parking lot, ground level, next to American Car Wash - The Shops at Palm Desert (Westfield Mall)
Tickets: $6.00 More information: https://www.yumfoodfest.com/General Admission: $5 (online, plus fees) and $8 at the door, if not sold out. Children 12 and under, first responders, veterans, and seniors are FREE!
Modernism Week FALL PREVIEW
Modernism Week Fall Preview invites you to step into the timeless style and vibrant history of Palm Springs each October. This exciting 4 day weekend offers an exclusive sneak peek of what’s to come during February’s world-famous Modernism Week. Enjoy a curated lineup of home tours, architectural walks, vintage expos, classic car shows, lectures, and parties that celebrate midcentury modern design, architecture, and culture. Whether you’re a design enthusiast, a history buff, or simply curious about Palm Springs’ iconic modernist lifestyle, the Fall Preview is your chance to explore beautifully preserved homes, meet expert architects and designers, and experience the desert’s unique architectural legacy in an intimate, accessible setting. Tickets are available for purchase.
When: October 16-19, 2025
Palm Springs Tram Road Challenge
The Palm Springs Aerial Tram Road Challenge dares runners and walkers to conquer 3.7 miles of pure uphill adventure, ascending nearly 2,000 feet from the desert floor to breathtaking mountain views. The race kicks off at Highway 111 and Tram Way, leading participants on a challenging yet unforgettable climb. At the finish, celebrate your achievement with a lively festival featuring food, a health fair, and awards. Every finisher takes home a medal, race shirt, and a well-earned ride back down the hill.
When: October 18, 2025
61st Annual Palm Desert Golf Cart Parade
The 61st Annual Palm Desert Golf Cart Parade returns to El Paseo this fall, filling the street with whimsical, decorated carts, lively marching bands, and cheering crowds. This cherished tradition has delighted the community for over six decades, complete with thrilling flyovers, kids’ activities, and plenty of local pride. It’s a joyful celebration that brings neighbors, families, and visitors together for one of the desert’s most beloved fall events.
When: October 26, 2025
Halloween in the Desert 🎃👻
Halloween in the Coachella Valley is more than just costumes and candy — it’s a community-wide celebration with something for every age. From spooky family-friendly festivals and pumpkin patches to nightlife events and haunted attractions, the desert comes alive with festive spirit. Whether you’re planning to trick-or-treat with the kids, attend a themed party, or explore one of the area’s haunted tours, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the holiday.
For a full roundup of where to celebrate and the best Halloween happenings across the desert, check out our guide: Ways to Celebrate Halloween in the Desert.
Year Around Weekly Local Events
Certified Farmer’s Markets of the Coachella Valley
Every Week from October to April
Starting the first week of October, Farmer’s Markets return to they Outdoor Locations across the Desert. Local farmers and vendors offer fresh agricultural and related products for market-goers to browse and purchase. October through May.
- Rancho Mirage : Friday from 8:00am - 2:00 pm; 71560 San Jacinto Drive, Rancho Mirage, CA 92270
- Indian Wells : Thursday from 8:00am - 2:00 pm; 44175 Washington St, Indian Wells, CA 92210
- Palm Springs : Saturday from 8:00am - 1:00 pm; 401 S Pavilion Way, Palm Springs, CA 92262
- Palm Desert : Sunday from 8:00am - 1:00 pm; 72559 Highway 111, Palm Desert, CA 92260
- La Quinta : Sunday from 8:00am - 1:00 pm; 78100 Main St, La Quinta, CA 92253
- Indio : Sunday from 9:00am - 2:00 pm; 45235 Towne Street, Indio Ca 92201
VillageFest in Palm Springs
Every Thursday
Every Thursday evening, Downtown Palm Springs transforms into the Palm Springs VillageFest, also known as the Palm Springs Street Fair. At the VillageFest, you will experience a diverse array of artists, artisans, entertainers, and purveyors of fresh fruits and veggies, flowers, jewelry, snacks and sweets. Add all that to the great shops, restaurants, clubs, and entertainment venues located along World Famous Palm Canyon Drive – and the result is one of Southern California’s most popular weekly events: VillageFest!
Why We Love October in the Coachella Valley
With so many events to enjoy, October is the perfect reminder of why the desert lifestyle is so special. These festivals, concerts, and community traditions highlight not only the creativity and culture of the Coachella Valley, but also the sense of connection that makes our desert cities feel like home. Whether you’re a longtime resident or just discovering the area, we hope this guide helps you make the most of the season.
