After several grueling, hot summer months, the Coachella Valley has officially made it to the fall season.
Not only does that mean cooler weather, but a huge wave of events are kicking off the peak tourist season once again. From a one-time-only EDM music festival to intense hockey games to several spooky Halloween events to ring in the holiday, there's something for everyone this month.
Here's what's coming to the Coachella Valley in October.
The Dinah 2026
The Dinah, the legendary queer women's music festival held annually in Palm Springs, kicked off at the end of September and continues through the start of October. The event includes a variety of parties, performances and fun all weekend long. Performers include Da Brat, Hayley Kiyoko, Sasha Keable, The Aces,
Dinah DJs, dancers and more.
When: Through Sunday, Oct. 4
Where: Hilton Palm Springs, 400 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs, and Hotel Zoso, 150 S. Indian Canyon Drive, Palm Springs
Cost: $303.94 general admission; day passes also available from $123.75
More info: thedinah.com
Epson Tour Championship
Come watch some of the top young women in the sport of golf compete in the official “Road to the LPGA” tour. The Epson Tour, the official qualifying tour of the LPGA Tour, comes to a close this week with the Epson Tour Championship at the Indian Wells Golf Resort, and it will feature 80 players, determined by the 2026 Epson Tour Race for the Card standings following the Murphy USA El Dorado Shootout. The 72-hole championship in Indian Wells will feature a no-cut format. The total purse will begin at $250,000 in 2026, with the winner earning $100,000.
When: Oct. 1-4 (see full scheduled at website below)
Where: Indian Wells Golf Resort, 44-500 Indian Wells Lane, Indian Wells
Cost: From $19
More info: epsontourchampionship.com
Palm Springs VillageFest
Now that the weather is finally getting cooler, head to the weekly Palm Springs VillageFest to take advantage of this beloved event among the community. Stroll down Palm Canyon Drive to check out local businesses, enjoy a variety of cuisine from food vendors and shop souvenirs, gifts and more. Don't miss out on a Halloween-themed VillageFest on Oct. 29, which will feature plenty of candy, games, a haunted bus and a costume contest at 7 p.m.
When: 6-10 p.m. every Thursday (Oct. 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29)
Where: Downtown Palm Springs, between Baristo and Amado roads
Cost: Free
More info: palmspringsca.gov/government/departments/parks-recreation
Coachella Valley Firebirds vs. Ontario Reign opening night
Though the weather may be getting cooler, the Firebirds are about to start heating up the icerink once again. Head to Acrisure Arena for the opening night game as the Coachella Valley Firebirds face off against the Ontario Reign. Other game days include Oct. 9, 11, 23, 28 and 30 this month. Will this be the team's big year? We'll just have to wait and see.
When: 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 2
Where: Acrisure Arena, 75-702 Varner Road, Palm Desert
Cost: Starting at $34
More info: acrisurearena.com/events/
Tommy Castro and The Painkillers
Fresh off two major wins at the 2026 Blues Foundation Awards (Blues Rock Artist of the Year and Song of the Year), Tommy Castro and The Painkillers are returning to the Palm Springs Cultural Center. The show is in support of the group's latest release, "Closer To The Bone," which fans and critics alike are calling one of Castro's most personal and powerful albums yet.
When: 7 p.m. Oct. 2
Where: Palm Springs Cultural Center, 2300 E. Baristo Road, Palm Springs
Cost: $65
More info: psculturalcenter.org/pscc
Saturday Savasana at Drift Palm Springs
This Palm Springs hotel isn't just for tourists. Drift now has several events open to the public, including a series of free Saturday Savasana yoga classes led by local instructor Karen Salgado on the hotel's Sol Studio balcony (note: this space is outdoors). Guests are asked to bring water and a mat with them, but a few mats are available for rent on a limited basis.
When: 9 a.m. Oct. 3, 17, 24 and 31
Where: Drift Palm Springs hotel, 284 S. Indian Canyon Drive, Palm Springs
Cost: Free admission
More info: eventbrite.com
HWY 62 Open Studio Art Tours
The start of fall means a new season of creative adventures for desert locals and visitors alike. This month, dive into the artistic community of the high desert as more than 200 artists open their studios to the public for the 25th anniversary of HWY 62 Open Studio Art Tours. Now considered SoCal’s largest open studio event, HWY 62 Open Studio Art Tours allow guests to see where artists create and, if they're lucky, maybe even watch them in action and ask a few questions.
When: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Oct. 3 and 4; Oct. 10 and 11; and Oct. 17 and 18
Where: Various home studios across Morongo Valley, Yucca Valley, Joshua Tree and Twentynine Palms (see detailed list at website below)
Cost: Free admission and open to all
More info: For information on the free event app, locations to pick up a tour catalog, or to request a mailed catalog, visit hwy62arttours.org
5th annual Legacy in Pink Breast Cancer Awareness Fashion Show
Internationally acclaimed Los Angeles designer Marc Littlejohn, creator of THISMANSBRAND, will debut selections from his 2026 Resort Collection during the fifth annual Legacy in Pink Breast Cancer Awareness Fashion Show, presented by the Southern California Black Chamber of Commerce – Palm Springs Chapter. Legacy in Pink has become one of the Coachella Valley’s most diverse luxury runway experiences, uniting professional models, breast cancer survivors, community leaders, celebrity guests, and local participants to promote awareness, education and early detection. A vendor showcase begins at 11 a.m. while the runway experience starts at noon.
When: 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 3
Where: Palm Springs Pavilion, 401 S. Pavilion Way, Palm Springs
Cost: $20 advanced general admission; $45 purchased at the door
More info: blackchamberofcommerce.org
Smiley's Speakeasy in Celebration of 100 Years of the Historic Smiley-Tyler Adobe House
The Historic Smiley-Tyler Adobe House is turning 100, and everyone's invited to this fundraiser to celebrate. The party opens with an evening that takes guests back to the year the house was built as guests slip through an unmarked door and into 1926. Admission includes a glass of bubbly and free parking. This is a 21 and-over event. Period attire is encouraged, so guests are invited to dress to the nines in pearls, pinstripes, feathers, and fedoras.
When: 7:30 p.m.-midnight Saturday, Oct. 3
Where: Coachella Valley History Museum 82-616 Miles Avenue Indio
Cost: General admission $85, museum member admission is $75
More info: cvhm.org/smileys-speakeasy (note: there are several more events celebrating the house this fall, so check out this website for details)
Luxury Farmer's Market
A new farmer's market experience is coming to El Paseo. Taking place twice a month from October through December, head to Palm Desert to see 40-plus local vendors selling fresh produce and other farmer's market favorites, food vendors and local shopping.
When: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 4 and 18
Where: 73-545 El Paseo, Palm Desert
Cost: Information not available
More info: theraremarket.my.canva.site
Cher: On Film
During the 1980s, Cher surprised audiences and critics alike by reinventing herself as one of Hollywood’s most compelling screen performers, even earning an Academy Award in the process. The Palm Springs Cultural Center is putting on a seven-film retrospective that showcases the roles that revealed new dimensions of a beloved superstar —funny, vulnerable, resilient, romantic and unforgettable. Screenings will include special guests, introductions and post-film conversations. The slate for October includes "The Witches of Eastwick" (Oct. 5) and "Tea with Mussolini" (Oct. 19).
When: 6 p.m. Monday, Oct. 5 and 19
Where: Palm Springs Cultural Center, 2300 E. Baristo Road, Palm Springs
Cost: $15
More info: psculturalcenter.org/pscc
Tacos y Tunes at Drift Palm Springs
Looking for a little weeknight escape? On select Tuesdays at Drift Palm Springs, both guests and locals alike can mingle around the hotel pool and enjoy live music. While you're dancing or lounging, you can also enjoy discounted drinks and tacos, with specials including $6 beers, $8 glasses of wine, $12 margaritas and tacos starting at $8. Need another excuse to enjoy this downtown Palm Springs hotel pool? Saturday/Sunday brunch at Maleza, Drift's on-site restaurant, now includes two pool day passes.
When: Tuesday, Oct. 6 and 13
Where: Drift Palm Springs hotel, 284 S. Indian Canyon Drive, Palm Springs
Cost: Free admission, with discounted food and drink items available for purchase
More info: drifthotels.co/palmsprings/
The Card Social
![Matt Janklow holds a trading card just signed by New England Patriots tight end Eli Raridon (82) before an NFL football matchup at EverBank Stadium on Sunday, Sept. 27, 2026, in Jacksonville, Fla. The Jaguars defeated the Patriots 35-6. [Corey Perrine/Florida Times‑Union]](https://www.gannett-cdn.com/authoring/authoring-images/2026/09/28/NFTU/91988127007-nfl-new-england-patriots-jacksonville-jaguars-082.JPG)
If you're a trading card enthusiast and looking to find your people, there's a new event coming to Palm Springs just for you. The Card Social is a weekly trading card and social event that will be held Wednesday at the Saguaro Palm Springs. Guests can buy, sell and trade cards, like Pokémon and sports cards, or discover other unique items and collectibles. This is a family-friendly atmosphere made to foster connection among the community. Visitors also receive 10% off food and drinks during the event.
When: 4-10 p.m. every Wednesday (Oct. 7, 14, 21 and 28)
Where: Saguaro Palm Springs, 1800 E. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs
Cost: Free admission, with food and drinks available for purchase
More info: instagram.com/thecardsocial/
21st Fall Joshua Tree Music Festival
The 21st fall edition of the Joshua Tree Music Festival returns with four nights and three days of live music, movement, mindfulness and magic in the Mojave desert this month. The curated lineup blends genres and generations, with performers such as Cure for Paranoia, Acido Pantera and The Breaks hitting the stage. Beyond the music, attendees will find 100+ movement, mindfulness and merriment playshops, Kidsville adventures and other opportunities for connection.
When: Oct. 8-11 (times vary, see website below for full schedule)
Where: Joshua Tree Lake Campground, 2601 Sunfair Road, Joshua Tree
Cost: Starting at $61.48 for single-day tickets; $332.95 for an all-weekend pass
More info: joshuatreemusicfestival.com
Head Trip
Get ready to dance until the wee morning hours atHead Trip. For the third time, the Los Angeles promoter behind Coachella and Stagecoach, Goldenvoice, will host a fall music festival at the Empire Polo Club in Indio. Head Trip will follow in the footsteps of Desert Trip and Power Trip and will be held Oct. 10 and 11. The fest will feature beloved DJs Calvin Harris, Swedish House Mafia, Skrillex and many more. Limited passes are still on sale, so act now if you want to take part in this two-day, one-off festival.
When: Oct. 10-11
Where: Empire Polo Club, 81-800 Avenue 51, Indio
Cost: $589 for 2-Day GA + Shuttle; $899 for VIP
More info: headtripindio.com
Yum Food Festival
Experience the return of the Yum Food Fest & Night Market, where vibrant flavors, unique shopping and live entertainment come together in one spot. Explore international cuisine, handcrafted goods and a lively atmosphere — all in the name of good food — at this two-day event.
When: 3-10 p.m. Oct. 10-11
Where: The Shops at Palm Desert, 72-840 Highway 111, Palm Desert (southeast parking lot, next to American Car Wash)
Cost: $7 online; $10 at the door; free for children 12 and under, first responders, veterans and seniors
More info: yumfoodfest.com
Books, Films & Then Some with Corey Roskin
The Palm Springs Cultural Center presents a special National Disability Employment Awareness Month and National Dwarfism Advocacy Month edition of its Books, Films, & Then Some with Corey Roskin series. This event brings together artists, filmmakers and writers for an afternoon and evening of storytelling, comedy and disability representation. At 3 p.m., New York Times bestselling author Emily Rapp Black joins Roskin for a special literary conversation centered on her newest book, "I Would Die If I Were You: Notes on Art and Truth Telling," an exploration of art, honesty and the power of telling difficult truths. The 6 p.m. feature presentation, "Veronica," is the award-winning short film starring Selene Luna, Katey Sagal, Margaret Cho and Taryn Manning. The program also features filmmaker and actor Christophe Zajac-Denek’s "Buttinskis," followed by a live panel with Luna, John Stapleton and Zajac-Denek.
When: Begins at 3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 11
Where: Palm Springs Cultural Center, 2300 E. Baristo Road, Palm Springs
Cost: Free
More info: psculturalcenter.org/pscc
Bylines, Broadcasts and the Big Screen film series screening of 'The Insider'
The Coachella Valley Journalism Foundation is continuing its new film series showcasing some of the best journalism films in history with commentary by some of the biggest names in the industry. Next up is "The Insider," the 1999 American biographical thriller that centers on a controversial "60 Minutes" segment about tobacco industry whistleblower Jeffrey Wigand (Russell Crowe), and his and CBS producer Lowell Bergman's (Al Pacino) struggles to defend his testimony. "The Insider," directed by Michael Mann and also starring Christopher Plummer, Bruce McGill, Diane Venora and Michael Gambon, will be presented in 35mm film. After the screening, guests will be joined by Bergman and Sharon Tiller of PBS’ "Frontline" for a Q&A and reception.
When: 3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 11
Where: Palm Springs Cultural Center, 2300 E. Baristo Road, Palm Springs
Cost: $25 for film; $200 film pass; $550 all-access pass
More info: psculturalcenter.org/pscc
Salotto at the Ocotillo Lodge
Salotto at The Ocotillo is a new Sunday afternoon culture jam for desert dwellers and out of towners of all ages, hosted by the music duo of LoveyDove. Organizers welcome "poignant poets, keen comedians, musical maestros, wild wordsmiths and storied tellers" to join LoveyDove at this bi-monthly variety show. Performances will take place at the historic Ocotillo Lodge in Palm Springs.
When: 4-7 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 11
Where: 1111 E. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs
Cost: $10 (proceeds benefit the restoration of Ocotillo Lodge’s Candlewood room)
More info: Contact loveydoveinc@gmail.com
Modernism Week October
Modernism Week October, the annual fall festival that highlights midcentury modern architecture, art, vintage culture and interior and landscape design in the Palm Springs area, returns Oct. 15-18. The October event, which is smaller in scope than the 11-day festival held every February, will offer more than 50 activities over four days, including many home and bus tours, talks and free and low-cost programs. New this year, Modernism Week will introduce evening entertainment options, including the Modernism Week Fall Dining Series (an exclusive collection of curated dining experiences), Modernism Week After Dark (new curated social events as a night cap to the evening) and a special wine tasting experience at Hall Winery. The full schedule may be viewed online at modernismweek.com.
When: Various times Oct. 15-18
Where: Throughout the Coachella Valley
Cost: Varies based on event
More info: modernismweek.com
Spooktacular Boat Ride
The Spooktacular Boat Ride at the JW Marriott Lake returns just in time for Halloween. This 25-minute haunted experience allows visitors to cruise down the lake, complete with eerie sights, mysterious sounds, playful frights and sweet and savory bites. Guests can choose between two scare levels, with Level 1 offering a standard experience for ages 15 and under and Level 2 taking it up a notch. Passage starts at $140 per boat for up to eight guests, and costumed children 12 and under will receive a complimentary spooky sip.
When: 6-9:30 p.m. Oct. 15–17, 22–24 and 29–31
Where: JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa, 74-855 Country Club Drive, Palm Desert
Cost: $140 per private boat ride accommodating up to eight guests
More info: jwdesertsprings.247activities.com
Halloween Movie in the Park
Bring your blankets and lawn chairs for the city of Palm Springs' annual Halloween Movie in the Park, featuring the 2006 film "Monster House." This free event offers a relaxing evening under the stars for all ages.
When: 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 16
Where: Sunrise Park, 401 S. Sunrise Way, Palm Springs
Cost: Free
More info: palmspringsca.gov/government/departments/
Palm Springs Pride Walk
The Palm Springs Pride Walk takes place Saturday, October 17, which aims to bring together the community for LGBTQ+ visibility, rights and the ongoing fight for full equality. The walk kicks off at 8:30 a.m. in the Arenas District, continues through downtown Palm Springs and returns to the Arenas District for music, food, drinks and a celebration. Funds raised help keep the November Pride Festival free and accessible for all to attend.
When: Kicks off 8:30 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 17
Where: East Arenas Road, Palm Springs
Cost: Donation- and fundraiser-based
More info: pspride.org/walk
Coachella Valley Car Show Festival
Get ready for an unforgettable day celebrating lowrider culture, custom cars, music and community at the Coachella Valley Car Show Festival. Hosted by Low Lows de Valle, this free indoor event will feature an impressive showcase of custom vehicles, a thrilling lowrider hopping contest and live entertainment. This is a day that any dedicated car enthusiast or someone new to car culture will be able to appreciate.
When: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 17
Where: Riverside County Fairgrounds, 46-350 Arabia St., Indio (Fullenwider Auditorium)
Cost: Free admission, parking is $10
More info: datefest.org/events/2026/
Annual Floating Pumpkin Patch
Families are invited to take part in this unique water-based pumpkin patch. Activities include pumpkin diving, arts and crafts, swimming and themed games in a fun and supervised environment
When: 1-3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 17
Where: Palm Springs Swim Center, 405 S. Pavilion Way, Palm Springs
Cost: Free
More info: palmspringsca.gov/government/departments
19th annual Concert for Autism
The 19th annual Concert for Autism music series continues. A few of the lead-up events include an Acoustic Afternoon for Autism at 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 4 at the Coachella Valley Brewing Co. in Thousand Palms, followed by an Oct. 10 performance at 6 p.m. The main event will take place 3 p.m. Oct. 17 at Big Rock Pub in Indio, featuring Space in Sound, Mighty Jack, The Royal Chicano Underground and others on the lineup. All proceeds benefit the Desert Autism Foundation.
When: 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 17
Where: Big Rock Pub, 79-940 Westward Ho Dr, Indio
Cost: Suggested $10 or more donation at the door
More info: concertforautism.com
East Coachella Valley Pride
The 10th annual East Coachella Valley Pride returns for a day full of community, celebration and plenty of pride. The day will include plenty of live music, opportunities to connect to resources, fun activities, food and more. The pride event is free to attend and open to all. Leading up to pride, there will be two events, including the kickoff at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 20 at the library, and a look at how the Youth Participatory Action Research project helped identify a need for LGBTQ+ spaces in the eastern Coachella Valley, which will take place 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 22 at The Center Coachella.
When: 3-8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 24
Where: Coachella Library, 1500 Sixth St., Coachella
Cost: Free
More info: instagram.com/ecvpride
Festival of Frights: Neon Monster Mash
Experience the ultimate thrill at the city of Palm Springs' Festival of Frights: Neon Monster Mash. High-energy neon fun, electric beats and a hauntingly good time await.
When: 6-9 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 24
Where: Sunrise Park, 401 S. Sunrise Way, Palm Springs
Cost: Free
More info: palmspringsca.gov/government/departments/
Indio Movie Night
Head to Indio's Center Stage for a free movie night with the community. Next up on the big screen is "Hocus Pocus." Just in time for Halloween, spend an evening with the hilariously wacky Sanderson sisters/witches as they are resurrected and attempt to regain their powers. Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets, lawn chairs, snacks and more, but free popcorn will be provided to all attendees.
When: 6 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 29
Where: Center Stage, 82-881 Miles Ave., Indio
Cost: Free admission and parking
More info: indio.org/home
Palm Springs Leather Pride
Palm Springs Leather Pride returns at the end of this month and comes jam-packed with parties, social events and more. Some of the events include the Mr. Palm Springs Leather and Mr. Palm Springs Bootblack contests to crown this year's winner, as well as a dinner, cigar social, yoga and more. Visit pslod.org/leatherpride for the full list of events.
When: Oct. 29-Nov. 1
Where: Hotel Zoso, 150 S. Indian Canyon Drive, Palm Springs
Cost: $210 Thor VIP pass; $325 Odin VIP pass; individual event tickets vary
More info: pslod.org/leatherpride
Halloween Carnival & Haunted House
Celebrate a free Halloween night with a community carnival and haunted house experience. Enjoy games, candy and a range of activities in a safe and welcoming environment.
When: 4-7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 30
Where: James O. Jessie Desert Highland Unity Center, 480 W. Tramview Road, Palm Springs
Cost: Free
More info: palmspringsca.gov/government/departments/
Candlelight: Halloween Classics
Set against a mesmerizing backdrop of thousands of candles, the Candlelight experience returns to the desert this Halloween with a live musical program built around mystery and the supernatural. Featured programming will include "Funeral March of a Marionette," "Danse Macabre," "Night on Bald Mountain," the theme from "Stranger Things," selections from "The Nightmare Before Christmas" and Michael Jackson's "Thriller."
When: 8:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 30
Where: The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage, 68-900 Frank Sinatra Drive, Rancho Mirage
Cost: Starting at $46.50
More info: feverup.com/m/692013
The B-52s and Devo
Devo will finish up their co-headlining North American tour at Acrisure Arena on Saturday, Oct. 31, 2026." id="90644620007">
Need Halloween plans? How about spending the evening with two legendary acts, The B-52s and Devo, when they finish up their co-headlining North American tour at Acrisure Arena. Celebrating two extraordinary catalogs that have helped shape the sound and style of modern music, the eight-city Cosmic De-Evolution tour wraps up on Saturday, Oct. 31 in Palm Desert — one of only two stops they're making in the Golden State.
When: 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 31
Where: Acrisure Arena, 75-702 Varner Road, Palm Desert
Cost: Starting at $53.40
More info: acrisurearena.com/events/detail/the-b-52s-devo
Ema Sasic covers entertainment and health in the Coachella Valley. Reach her at ema.sasic@desertsun.com, on X @ema_sasic or on Instagram @emasasic.
This article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun: The ultimate Coachella Valley and beyond events guide for October
