Thursday Night Villagefest Along Palm Canyon Drive
The weekly Thursday night Villagefest is one of my favorite events in Palm Springs. The event was originated by former mayor Sonny Bono, and for over 16 years has been the home for local vendors of food, fresh produce (straight from the farms), music, art, handicrafts, and entertainment.
Villagefest operates year round, from 6 - 10 pm, October - May, and 7 - 10 pm, June - September, along Palm Canyon Drive between Baristo and Amado. This weekly event has become as popular with local area residents as it is with tourists and visitors. Many of the shops and galleries along Palm Canyon Drive stay open late on Thursday nights, and the Palm Springs Art Museum offers free admission.
Over the many years that I’ve been going to Villagefest, I’ve purchased tasty local produce, a couple of pieces of art (including one large, stunning, original oil), an assortments of gifts. All items must be handmade, so I’ve found some very unique items. I also enjoy the dates, never failing to pick up a package or two.
Part of the fun of strolling Villagefest is people watching. You’ll see blue-haired dowagers, families, flamboyantly attired drag queens, couples, singles – everyone mingling and having a great time. Music usually plays in the background. Villagefest is dog friendly, so whether you have a Great Dane or a little Chihuahua, your pooch will have company, too.
Villagefest is so enjoyable that it’s worth arranging your schedule to be in Palm Springs on a Thursday night!
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POSTED IN: Art, Events, Food & Beverage, Outdoor Activities, Shopping, Things to See & Do
3 opinions for Thursday Night Villagefest Along Palm Canyon Drive
sam casuncad
Jul 15, 2007 at 7:37 am
It’s good to know you guys out there have fests like this one, i envy you for that because it is very rare here in the Philippines.
Tom
Jul 15, 2007 at 8:33 pm
We live here in Palm Springs and own a hotel on Racquet Club Rd called Terra Cotta Inn. Our guests always love going to village fest.
Mary Jo Manzanares
Jul 16, 2007 at 1:48 pm
It’s a great time! And it is one of the most eclectic, yet inclusive, groups of people that I’ve ever been around.
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