Experience the Sights and Sounds of the Season

Palm Desert’s holiday season has arrived and along with it comes events and activities for the entire family to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a little holiday atmosphere or a concert of favorite carols, Palm Desert has it all. Be sure to plan and purchase your tickets early, as many events sell out well in advance. Enjoy the show!

 

WildLights at the Living Desert

The Living Desert
November 23, 25-26, December 2-3, 9-10, 16-24, 26-30

WildLights is a magical winter wonderland, complete with light displays and winter fun. An illuminated journey around the zoo with endless awe-inspiring sights and festive photo ops, guests can take a spin on the carousel, make and enjoy s’mores, get a souvenir photo with Santa, and much more.

 

Merry Movie Nights 
The Gardens on El Paseo
November 26, December 3, 10, 17

Join the Gardens on El Paseo for family holiday films and the sights of snowfall. Held Saturdays on the Center Lawn in front of Saks Fifth Avenue, the movies will begin at dusk (5:00 p.m.) and are the perfect chance to relax, connect and enjoy family and friends. Bring your own blankets and dress warm!

 

Jake Shimabukuro
McCallum Theatre
November 29

Don’t miss out on the excitement when ukulele master Jake Shimabukuro debuts his highly anticipated holiday show, Christmas in Hawai’i, at the McCallum Theatre. Expect to hear holiday classics in addition to his signature show favorites.

 

Mannheim Steamroller Christmas
McCallum Theatre

December 2

Mannheim Steamroller Christmas by Chip Davis has been America’s favorite holiday tradition for over 35 years! Grammy Award winner Chip Davis has created a show that features the beloved Christmas music of Mannheim Steamroller along with dazzling multimedia effects performed in an intimate setting. Experience the magic of the season!

 

All is Calm: The Christmas Truce of 1914
McCallum Theatre
December 6

Produced by Theater Latte Da of Minneapolis, this moving work captures an astounding moment in history when Allied and German soldiers laid down their arms to celebrate the holiday together by trading carols, sharing food and drink, and playing soccer.

 

The TEN Tenors
McCallum Theatre
December 10

Make time this holiday season to enjoy a joyous night of music featuring McCallum favorites, the Australian classical-crossover supergroup The TEN Tenors. The show features holiday favorites.

 

A Festival of Lessons and Carols for Christmas
St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church
December 11

The St. Margaret’s Choir will be joined by readers and organ for this yearly presentation of wonderful music for the season. An annual highlight of the musical season at St. Margaret’s, early arrival is suggested.

 

Christmas in Ireland
St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church
December 13

Ireland’s most exciting tenor! Emmet Cahill recently made his sold-out debut at New York’s Carnegie Hall, and his Irish album debuted at #1 on Billboard’s World Music Charts. He hails from Mullingar, Ireland, and is the lead singer with PBS phenomenon Celtic Thunder.

 

Palm Springs Gay Men’s Chorus “Naughty or Nice”

Annenberg Theater

December 16, 17, 18

With a 100-member chorus, PSGMC brings you a production that will resonate with your inner child’s belief in the holiday season. With the return of Broadway diva Michele McConnell, this holiday extravaganza will leave you wanting more.

 

Gladys Knight: A Holiday of Celebration

Fantasy Springs

December 17

The Empress of Soul, Gladys Knight will arrive at the desert scene to deliver some holiday cheer. The extraordinary range and vocals performed by Knight are bound to hit home for the joyous festivities.

 

Mariachi Sol de Mexico de José Hernàndez: Merri-Achi Christmas
McCallum Theatre
December 18

Merri-Achi Christmas returns to the McCallum Theatre in a colorful and traditional Mexican holiday celebration full of seasonal songs, dance, and festive merriment. Headlining the exciting extravaganza is one of the nation’s premier ensembles, Mariachi Sol de Mexico de José Hernàndez.

 

Dave Koz & Friends 25th Anniversary Christmas Tour
McCallum Theatre
December 19

A holiday tradition returns to the McCallum as Dave Koz and Friends celebrate their 25^th Anniversary Christmas Tour bringing together a magical combination of musicians to celebrate this special season. Celebrated saxophonist Koz will be joined by four special guests performing fresh, lively arrangements of seasonal favorites.

 

For a complete list of upcoming events, visit our Events Calendar: DiscoverPalmDesert.com/events