There’s something charmingly unexpected about Christmas in the desert. Imagine palm trees wrapped in twinkly lights, desert air scented with cinnamon and pine, and festive cheer shimmering under clear blue skies. From holiday parades and winter wonderlands to vintage shopping and light displays, Palm Springs offers a one-of-a-kind holiday experience. And when the desert dusk turns to night, you can return to the calm sanctuary of Onsen Hotel & Spa in Desert Hot Springs to soak in warm mineral waters under a star-bright desert sky. This guide gathers the best confirmed events for 2025, mixes in a bit of personal zest, and shows how to weave together adventure, wonder, and relaxation into a joyful desert holiday.
WildLights at The Living Desert
One of my favorite memories is wandering through the light-draped gardens of WildLights at The Living Desert. From November 25 through December 30, nightly from 6 to 9 pm, the zoo transforms into a glowing forest with a towering holiday tree, enchanted Tunnel of Lights, a magical carousel, model train setups, and even fireside s’mores. It’s pure storybook magic by desert standards, and the kids (and kids at heart) will light up with joy.
Festival of Lights Parade downtown
Every first Saturday of December, downtown Palm Springs turns into a parade of shining joy. Bands, dancers, floats, and even holiday icons meander along Palm Canyon Drive, with festive crowds bundled up and mugs of cocoa in hand. It’s low-pressure, high-spirit fun that feels both nostalgic and energizing.
Snowtopia at the Air Museum
When I first heard about Snowtopia, I was skeptical—snow in the desert? But between December 19–22 (6–9 pm), the Palm Springs Air Museum’s tarmac becomes a real snowy playground. Picture 60 tons of snow, holiday train rides, s’mores pits, cozy crafts indoors, and visits with Santa, Frosty, and elves. It’s a joy-filled, whimsical escape where the unexpected becomes unforgettable.
Magic of Lights Drive-Through
If you’d rather stay toasty warm inside your vehicle, the Magic of Lights at Coachella Valley is a festive drive-through treat. Animated arches, holiday icons, and dazzling light tunnels line the route—perfect for families, pets, or anyone craving a relaxed, cheerful ride.
A Celtic Christmas Evening
On December 13, the Palm Springs Art Museum transforms its space with a performance titled A Celtic Christmas. Harp music, ethereal vocals, and traditional melodies bring a soft, soulful layer to local celebrations—an elegant, moving alternative to the typical holiday playlist.
Holiday Markets and Festive Runs
The desert communities push holiday cheer all through early December. On December 1, the Palm Springs Vintage Market overflows with period treasures and artisan crafts. Just days later, on December 6, the El Paseo Art Walk lights up galleries, gardens, and shops with live music, cocktails, and creative energy.
Then there’s the Indio International Tamale Festival on December 7–8. Expect tamale tastings, carnival rides, live music, hearty laughs, and chili-spiced fun. That same weekend, December 7, the Santa Paws 5K & Lil’ Elf Dash gets furry friends and humans running—or walking—in festive holiday attire, all to support guide dog programs. It’s whimsical, charitable, and purely heartwarming.
Desert Holiday Reflections
I’ll never forget sipping hot cocoa outside after the Festival of Lights, watching illuminated floats pass beneath swaying palms and mountain silhouettes at dusk. A few nights later, the glow of WildLights reflecting off desert succulents felt like a warm hug for my soul. Wrapping up those evenings back at Onsen Hotel & Spa, soaking under softly lit skies in mineral-rich baths, it felt like the perfect balance—festive joy outside matched by calm restoration inside.
Planning Tips for a Memorable Desert December
- Confirm schedules—events generally run from late November through mid-December, but hours may shift.
- Reserve early for sweet spots like the Celtic Christmas show or Snowtopia nights.
- Dress in layers—daytime desert warmth gives way to sharp cold once the sun sets.
- Arrive early for parades and WildLights to snag parking or prime viewing spots.
- Build in rest—pair festive outings with peaceful pauses back at the resort to avoid holiday overload.
Rest and Recharge at Onsen Hotel & Spa
After a day chasing holiday lights or sharing laughter at a vintage market, there’s nowhere better to unwind than Onsen Hotel & Spa. Wrapped in tranquility, the minimalist charm and heated mineral pools offer the perfect reset. Decked out in soft robes, you’ll ease into serene comfort, letting the desert night lull you toward quiet bliss. If seasonal treatments or special touches are available, be sure to confirm when booking.
