Check Out Local September Events
September in the Coachella Valley is a welcomed month. The hottest days of the year are usually behind us, and the events calendar starts to pick up steam again. From outdoor concerts to local escapes, there’s plenty to enjoy. Below are a few of our top picks, plus a sneak preview at what’s to come in October.
La Quinta 9/11 Candlelight Vigil
September 11th
Join your neighbors and fellow community members from 7 – 8pm to remember and honor the victims of 9/11 on the 21st anniversary of that tragic day. This somber memorial will pay tribute to those who lost their lives at the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and Shanksville, PA, with speeches by local dignitaries, musical tributes, and public art composed from the remnants of the World Trade Center. There will also be a special moment of remembrance for the U.S. military service members who lost their lives in Afghanistan last year.
More information can be found on the City of La Quinta’s website.
Concerts in the Park at SilverRock Park
September 24th
Head to SilverRock Park from 6:30 – 9pm with blankets, chairs, a picnic, and family in tow, for an evening of riveting live music. This month’s performance comes from Sean Oliu & The Coastline Cowboys. Sean Oliu is an up-and-coming singer and songwriter who has already stacked prominent performances on his resume, including recording and performing the title tracks “Remember Me” and “Un Poco Loco” with Anthony Gonzalez for the Disney Pixar film “Coco.” Come enjoy a beautiful desert evening with Sean’s soulful classic country style – all for free!
More details can be found on the City of La Quinta’s website.
Free Entrance Days in the National Parks
September 24th
Celebrate our magical National Parks for free on September 24th in honor of National Public Lands Day. Locally, you can head to ethereal Joshua Tree National Park to enjoy its iconic Martian landscapes, brilliant barren beauty, and marvel at the unrivaled, protected Joshua Tree species of tree. It is the perfect day trip!
Since the high desert still experiences extreme temperatures this time of year, be sure to wear the appropriate clothing and bring proper gear for a day in the desert sun. Extra water, a hat, and hiking shoes are always a good idea.
For more information on Joshua Tree National Park, check out its page on the National Park Services website.
Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest
September 10th through November 5th
The Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest makes its triumphant return to the Big Bear Lake Convention Center, starting Saturday, September 10th, running weekly through November 5th. Events will be held both indoors and outside, with limited capacity each day. This Oktoberfest celebration is known for capturing the essence of the original Oktoberfest, with traditional music, events, food, and the finest Bavarian beers imported from Munich. For the first time since 2019, a band directly from Germany will perform, along with incredible German-American bands to keep the festival spirits lively.
For more information on Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest, including details on tickets and entertainment, check out the event website.
Certified Farmers’ Markets
Saturdays through September in Palm Springs
Thursdays through September in Indian Wells
Enjoy fresh produce and a variety of locally sourced goods this summer at Coachella Valley farmers’ markets. This is the final month of indoor shopping at locations in Palm Springs and Indian Wells before the outdoor markets resume in October. In addition to fresh produce and delicious fare, vendors with a variety of items for sale are on-hand, including clothing, flowers, handmade gifts, and more.
Below are the details on each market by city:
The Palm Springs Certified Farmers’ market is held indoors Saturdays from 8:30am-1:30pm inside the Palm Springs Pavilion (401 S. Pavilion Way).
The Indian Wells Certified Farmers’ Market will be open every Thursday from 8am-1pm inside the former grocery store building at The Village shopping center along Highway 111 (74-895 Highway 111).
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
Open Throughout the Month
The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, one of the most iconic attractions in Palm Springs, transports you from the floor of the Coachella Valley via an epic 2.5-mile ride on a rotating tramcar to a vastly different world in the San Jacinto Mountains. The experience at the top of the tram is dramatically different than the warmth of Palm Springs. The tram delivers a delightfully refreshing reprieve from the sizzle on the valley floor in the summer months, often with a temperature differential of 30 to 40-degrees. During the fall, winter, and often-times spring months, snow is a frequent attraction and a wonderful reason to make the trip.
Beyond the endless views offered by the 10-minute ride, this attraction draws major crowds due to its connection to prominent trailheads that link up to some of the best hiking in Southern California, with paths meandering through Mount San Jacinto State Park and into Idyllwild, a romantic, artsy mountain town. In addition to hiking trails, tram riders can enjoy two restaurants, a cocktail lounge, theaters screening a history of the State Park and tram construction videos, observation decks featuring panoramic views of the entire Coachella Valley, and a gift shop.
For more information about the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, be sure to visit their website.
Rancho Mirage Observatory
Dates Throughout the Month
Marvel at “the final frontier” and all its curious wonders at the Rancho Mirage Observatory. There are few better ways to spend a desert evening than gazing at the stars or participating in one of the many events taking place. This month you can head to the observatory for nightly stargazing September 26th through the 30th. This program includes viewing several objects from the observation deck, a constellation tour, and a closer look at even more celestial objects through the domed telescope.
In addition to nighttime observation fun, enjoy a tour of the Observatory Monday through Friday at 3pm each day. This opportunity is free and open to the public, with no advance registration necessary. Located adjacent to the Rancho Mirage Public Library, the Rancho Mirage Observatory is a must-see attraction and a stellar way to journey beyond our world.
For more information on the Rancho Mirage Observatory, including a calendar of upcoming events and ongoing programs, check out its section on the Rancho Mirage Library website.
Palm Springs VillageFest
Thursday Nights
Palm Springs Village Fest takes to the streets of downtown Palm Springs each Thursday evening from 7pm to 10pm. Stretching from Indian Canyon Drive to Belardo Road, Palm Springs VillageFest delivers the quintessential Palm Springs experience in a vibrant atmosphere. It is also the perfect way to enjoy a late summer evening in the desert.
This street festival features a variety of vendors, from artists and artisans showcasing their talents and wares, to culinary curators serving up tasty treats. There is also a variety of live entertainers on practically every street corner, setting the tone for an electric experience.
For the full list of vendors and additional information on Palm Springs Village Fest, check out the website.
Palm Springs Art Museum
Free Every Thursday Night, 5pm – 7pm
Before you enjoy an evening Palm Springs VillageFest, head to the Palm Springs Art Museum for complimentary admission each Thursday from 5-7pm. Participate in the monthly self-guided activity to learn more about the museum’s collection and so much more. This interactive activity even presents an opportunity to go viral with a feature on the museum’s Instagram account.
If you prefer to visit the Palm Springs Art Museum another time, this exceptional attraction is open Thursday from 10am – 7pm and Friday through Sunday from 10am – 5pm. You will be treated to a collection of over 12,000 objects that are rooted in modern and contemporary art, architecture, and design. The museum is a crown jewel of the Palm Springs community and is a must-see experience for residents and visitors alike.
For more information on the Palm Springs Art Museum, including details about the free Thursday night admission opportunity, check out the museum’s website.
Joshua Tree Fall Music Festival
October 6th – 9th
The Joshua Tree Music Festival returns for the fall edition, drawing a diverse crowd to the high desert. The eclectic audience reflects what is an always distinct lineup of musical artists, where practically every genre is represented by a talented act. This year’s fall installment runs from October 6th through the 9th and is sure to deliver an unforgettable experience for all in attendance. A more traditional JTMF experience is in store, with a greater capacity and live music starting all day from 10am, onward.
A long-standing high desert tradition, The Joshua Tree Music Festival’s aim to is to create a deep connection between performers and patrons by embracing music’s ability to bond humanity. Extending beyond the grooves and beats, the Joshua Tree Music Festival includes activities and workshops such as yoga and movement, music, visual arts, and myth. Promoted as a family-friendly event, there is a robust offering of activities for kids, too.
Joshua Tree is one of Southern California’s most scenic destinations and the music festival is an exceptional opportunity to discover new artists in a refreshing landscape while making inspiring memories in a truly one-of-a-kind four-day experience. For more information, including the festival lineup, tickets, hotel accommodations, and health and safety guidelines, visit the festival website.
Paint El Paseo Pink
October 8
Help raise funds for Desert Cancer Foundation and burn some calories in the process by participating in the 16th annual Paint El Paseo Pink walk. Join thousands of walkers for a morning of celebration, remembrance, and support of those fighting breast cancer.
Registration is $35 per person and includes a commemorative pink t-shirt. The event kicks off at 7:30am, with the walk starting at 8am sharp. Money raised from this event supports local residents who need financial assistance with cancer care and treatment.
For more information on Paint El Paseo Pink and Desert Cancer Foundation, check out the foundation’s website.
Palm Desert Concerts in the Park
Thursdays in October
Gather friends and family, pack a picnic, and grab your blanket fopr Palm Desert Concerts in the Park, returning this October. This semi-annual evening attraction takes to the Civic Center stage each Thursday in October from 6-7:30pm, featuring a new performance every week. There is usually a genre for everyone to enjoy, with previous installments featuring the music stylings of pop, country, folk, R&B, jazz, blues, rock, and more. This free event is the best way to welcome the start of cooler weather and enjoy the fresh air of a perfect desert evening.
Check out the city of Palm Desert’s website for more information and to find out who’s playing next month.
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