12 Days Of Cheer In Palm Desert: Making This A December To Remember

The holiday season is officially here, and there’s no shortage of ways to soak up the magic in and around Palm Desert. To help get you in the spirit, we’ve rounded up a dozen festive ideas you can enjoy throughout the month — each one a fun, joyful way to celebrate the season close to home.

From twinkling light displays and holiday markets to cozy treats, local shopping spots, winter activities and seasonal shows, these 12 picks highlight what makes Palm Desert feel especially merry this time of year. Whether you check off one or all twelve, it’s all about slowing down, supporting local businesses and making memories.

1. Step into a dazzling wonderland at WildLights at The Living Desert Zoo & Gardens.

On select nights from Nov. 25 through Dec. 30, The Living Desert transforms into a glittering spectacle with over 3 million lights, immersive safari-themed displays and illuminated holiday scenes. Walk through the African Safari section to see giraffes, zebras, rhinos and more, all framed in glowing lights. Don’t miss favorites like the Tunnel of Lights or the G-Scale model train, and warm up with s’mores or seasonal cocktails (for 21+) at cozy stations sprinkled around the zoo. Secure your timed ticket in advance (capacity is limited), and note that day visitors must exit by 5 p.m. so the evening lights event can begin.

2. Catch a world-class performance at the McCallum Theatre.

Throughout December, the McCallum Theatre in Palm Desert presents a lineup of holiday magic, including “MOMIX: Alice” on Dec. 5, “Mariachi Christmas” on Dec. 6 and even “Moulin Rouge! The Musical” in mid-December. Their schedule also includes “Manilow: A Gift of Love VII” (Dec 16–21) and “A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical” (Dec 23–28). This storied venue is not only architecturally beautiful but deeply rooted in the Coachella Valley’s cultural history. It’s a perfect place to gather with family or friends for an elegant, festive evening that feels both classy and heartwarming.

3. Indulge in a refined dinner at Mastro’s Steakhouse.

For a touch of luxury during the holiday season, Mastro’s Steakhouse on El Paseo offers an upscale dining experience filled with rich steaks, fresh seafood and refined service. The atmosphere is elegant, making it a great choice for a romantic night out or a celebratory holiday dinner. Be sure to dress the part — the steakhouse enforces a strict upscale dress code to maintain its sophisticated tone. Mastro’s has extended hours during the holidays, including special service on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve.

4. Reconnect with nature on a peaceful winter hike.

About 25 minutes from Palm Desert, the Coachella Valley Preserve is a serene sanctuary spanning 20,000 acres of dunes, palm oases and rare desert wildlife. Walk the mile-long Thousand Palms Oasis Trail, where pools of water and ancient vegetation feel like a secret desert retreat under clear winter skies. You may spot species such as the Coachella fringe-toed lizard or giant red velvet mites, and listen for more than 180 bird species that call this place home. It’s a quiet, grounding way to experience the natural side of the desert in the cooler season — just bring water, sun protection and good walking shoes.

5. Experience a snowy holiday spectacle at the Palm Springs Air Museum.

From Dec. 19 to 22, the Palm Springs Air Museum hosts Snowtopia, a special ticketed winter event featuring 60 tons of real snow, a holiday train ride, s’mores around outdoor firepits and a meet-and-greet with Santa, Mrs. Claus and the elves. Inside the Miles Hangar, craft-making, holiday shopping, hot chocolate and cookies round out the festive fun. Even outside the Snowtopia dates, the Air Museum is well worth a visit — it houses more than 75 historic aircraft, interactive exhibits and a nostalgic gift shop.

6. Drive through a holiday light masterpiece at Magic of Lights Coachella Valley.

Located at the Empire Polo Club (just outside Palm Desert), this drive-through holiday spectacular runs through December and features dazzling LED displays, synchronized animations and beloved characters stretching across more than a mile. The experience is designed for the whole car at one flat rate, making it great for families, couples or a festive friend night out. With themes of candy canes, holiday scenery and winter movie nostalgia, each turn brings a new surprise. Be sure to book online in advance to secure your ticket.

7. Slide across the ice at the Berger Foundation Iceplex.

Skate where the Coachella Valley Firebirds practice! The Berger Foundation Iceplex offers public skate sessions daily for all ages and skill levels, as well as a dedicated session for adults and skate aid rentals for beginners. Entry is cheaper if you pre-register ($15 online vs. $18 walk-in), and rentals cost $5. Long socks are recommended, and children 3 and under skate free.

8. Discover art and design at the Palm Springs Art Museum.

Less than 30 minutes from Palm Desert, this museum’s Modern & Contemporary Collection includes over 3,000 works — from sculptures and prints to historic photography — that reflect a bold, striking visual aesthetic. The Architecture & Design Center is also part of the museum, featuring iconic mid-century buildings designed by the likes of Albert Frey and E. Stewart Williams. If you time your visit right, you can enjoy the museum for free on Thursdays from 5 to 8 p.m. (supported by the City of Palm Springs).

9. Ride high above the desert on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway.

Climb more than two-and-a-half miles up the cliffs of Chino Canyon in one of the world’s largest rotating tram cars, offering stunning panoramic views of Palm Desert and its surrounding mountains. Once you reach the Mountain Station at 8,516 ft, you’ll discover observation decks, a visitor center, a little theater and miles of hiking paths through pine forests and alpine terrain — a surprising contrast to the desert below. In winter, the tram’s later hours let you catch sunset or stargaze from a high ridge. Tickets can be booked online.

10. Make holiday memories with Santa at The Shops at Palm Desert.

Bring the family (or the pets!) for a magical Santa photo experience in the beautifully decorated Grand Court of the mall. Reservations are highly recommended. A $20 deposit is required, but it is credited toward your photo order or digital download. The Shops also offer pet-friendly photo sessions and sensory-friendly time slots, making it inclusive for kids with sensory sensitivities. Whether you’re shopping for gifts or simply soaking in the mall’s festive décor, meeting Santa here is a Palm Desert holiday tradition.

11. Curl up with your next favorite read at The Best Bookstore in Palm Springs.

Located just about 30 minutes from Palm Desert, this cozy indie bookstore is a literary haven, offering personalized recommendations and a warm, inviting space to browse. Founded by two locals who felt the city needed a reading-focused gathering space, the store offers thoughtful service and a peaceful atmosphere. Browse for holiday gifts, discover the next great novel or pick up something new for your winter reading list. It’s the kind of place where every book feels like a discovery.

12. Enjoy tapas, wine and holiday cheer at La Fe Wine Bar.

Nestled on El Paseo, La Fe Wine Bar is a cozy, intimate spot ideal for December evenings, with a menu of shareable dishes — think charcuterie boards, flatbreads, empanadas and more. Pair your plates with their carefully curated wine list, local beers or creative cocktails for a relaxing, elevated night out. The atmosphere is warm and chic, with soft lighting and friendly service that feels personal without being stuffy. It’s a great place to toast to the season with friends, a partner or just yourself while soaking in Palm Desert’s sophisticated desert-night ambiance.

Stay warm, shop local and enjoy every twinkling moment — happy holidays, Palm Desert!

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