In addition to an exciting lineup of new stores and restaurants opening along El Paseo in the coming months, a well-stocked events calendar will get everyone in the holiday spirit. Welcome back the brightest season of the year on the most stylish street in the desert.
Sunset Sessions
The Gardens on El Paseo
Fridays, Oct. 1-Dec. 17, 3-6p.m. through November; 4-6 p.m. in December
Kick back and relax on Friday afternoons when musicians take to the center lawn for your enjoyment. On Fridays through Nov. 26, listen to the musical stylings of guitarist and singer-songwriter Derek Jordan Gregg. On Fridays in December, music by duo Mantor and Lannett entertains with double guitar and vocals. Spend the day shopping, break for music on the lawn, then dine at your favorite El Paseo restaurant. Free to the public.
Gather at The Gardens
The Gardens on El Paseo
Saturday, Oct. 30, 2-6 p.m
Pack the kids in the car and head out for an afternoon of fall fun, food, and activities for all ages. Their eyes will get big as pumpkins at the sight of the Jump Zone, rock climbing, pumpkin painting, and arts and crafts areas set up just for them. They can even go trick-or-treating and enter a costume contest (there’s one for pets, kids, and adults). Listen to the soulful sounds of Lisa Lynn and the Broken Hallelujahs and witness feats of wonderment by magician Dean Apple. For refreshment, look no further than La Quinta High School’s culinary division and La Quinta Brewing Company. Ticket packages will be sold on site and through Eventbrite. Proceeds benefit Family YMCA of the Desert.
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Merry Movie Nights
The Gardens on El Paseo
Saturdays, Nov. 27-Dec. 18, 5-7 p.m.
Mark your calendars, bring a few blankets, and dress warm. This cozy, once-a-week outdoor cinema experience screens movies under the stars with winter theme. Settle in and reconnect with family and friends on the center lawn in front of Saks Fifth Avenue and be delighted by the sight of “snow” falling in the desert. Showtime for the four family-friendly films is at dusk (5 p.m.). Tickets go on sale Nov. 1 and are $7 for adults, $5 for children under 16.
Saturday, Nov. 27 – The Grinch
Saturday, Dec. 4 – Frozen
Saturday, Dec. 11 – Elf
Saturday, Dec. 18 – The Santa Clause
15th Annual Martha’s Village Thanksgiving Day 5k
The Gardens on El Paseo
Thursday, Nov. 25, 5-7p.m.
The Fortem Financial Thanksgiving Day 5K benefitting Martha’s Village & Kitchen has two options for participation this year: in-person or virtually. Take action against food insecurity and homelessness in the Coachella Valley by walking, running, or registering your virtual support at: classy.org/event/2021-thanksgiving-5k/e344798.
Shop to the Tune of Strolling Carolers
The Shops on El Paseo
Friday and Saturday nights in December
Fulfilling wishes for everyone on your list feels extra special on Friday and Saturday nights in December. Joyful carolers will be strolling along the decorated esplanade, creating a must-experience ambiance while shopping for those holiday gifts.
The lighted tree above El Paseo officially announces the holiday season.
Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony
The Shops on El Paseo
Friday, Dec. 3, 5-7p.m.
The holiday season is official once the golden lights of the Christmas tree are twinkling again above El Paseo. Join the merriment at the annual The Shops on El Paseo tree lighting ceremony where carolers’ voices will fill the air and yummy treats galore will tempt with seasonal flavors. Photo opportunities abound between a larger-than-life snow globe and Santa and Mrs. Claus on hand to wish everyone glad tidings. The event also kicks off The Shops on El Paseo Toy Drive, which goes through the end of December.
Playtime & Photos With Santa
The Gardens on El Paseo
Saturday, Dec. 4, 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
The big white-bearded man in the red suit is back in town and ready for a good time. This meet-and-greet for the whole family features lawn games, bubbles on the center lawn, and the opportunity to meet Santa himself on the bridge near The Gardens’ giant holiday tree. The $15 cost to participate benefits Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Desert and includes a photo in a holiday folder. (This year’s event is by reservation only, so schedule your visit in advance.)
Your donation benefits the Bianca Rae Foundation during Paws N’ Claus. Photograph by Getty Images
Paws N’ Claus
The Gardens on El Paseo
Saturday, Dec. 11, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Whether your pup has been naughty or nice, don’t let them miss out on all the fun at the annual Paws N’ Claus event. See your sweet canine pal photographed with jolly old Saint Nick for a worthy cause that helps children and animals. A $15 donation to participate benefits the Bianca Rae Foundation and includes a darling commemorative photo.