August Events in Greater Palm Springs

August brings intense heat to the Coachella Valley, but that doesn’t mean there’s a shortage of things to do. From exciting local events and indoor activities to easy day trips that offer a welcome escape, Greater Palm Springs still has plenty to offer during the summer season.

Local Events

Splash House

• When: August 8–10 and August 15–17, 2025

• Where: Renaissance, Margaritaville, and Saguaro Hotels + after-hours at the Palm Springs Air Museum

• What: This multi-venue poolside music festival brings top electronic artists and DJ sets to iconic Palm Springs hotels. Guests can expect vibrant day parties, shuttle access between venues, and nighttime performances in a unique aircraft hangar setting.

• More Info: splashhouse.com

VillageFest

• When: Every Thursday from 7 PM to 10 PM

• Where: Palm Canyon Drive, Downtown Palm Springs

• What: A long-standing weekly tradition featuring artisan vendors, food booths, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities. It’s a great way to enjoy the warm evenings and support local businesses.

Palm Springs Art Museum – Free Thursday Nights

• When: Thursdays from 5 PM to 7 PM

• Where: Palm Springs Art Museum

• What: Escape the heat and explore contemporary and modern art with free admission on Thursday evenings.

Live Music and Comedy Performances

• Various venues throughout the month will host nationally recognized acts including:

• Los Dos Carnales at Fantasy Springs – August 1

• Yelawolf at The Show (Agua Caliente) – August 2

• Creed at Acrisure Arena – August 7

• Gipsy Kings with Nicolas Reyes at Agua Caliente – August 7

• Heart at The Show (Agua Caliente) – August 15

• George Lopez at Spotlight 29 Casino – August 16
  
  

Indoor Activities

When daytime temperatures climb into triple digits, indoor entertainment becomes essential. Here are a few ways to stay cool while enjoying time with family or friends:

• Indoor Pickleball: Facilities throughout the Coachella Valley offer air-conditioned courts and group play opportunities. Try Pickled Bar in Palm Desert or JOJDHUC Indoor Pickleball in Palm Springs.

• Bowling Alleys: Try Fantasy Lanes or Palm Springs Lanes for classic bowling, arcade games, and casual dining.

• Escape Rooms: Popular locations like Palm Springs Escape Room and Escape Games at The River in Rancho Mirage provide immersive, air-conditioned fun for groups of all ages.

• Museums and Cultural Centers: In addition to the Palm Springs Art Museum, the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum and the Palm Springs Air Museum are excellent indoor options.
  
  

Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

• The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is one of the most popular ways to escape the desert heat without leaving the region.

• In just over 10 minutes, the rotating tram car ascends from the valley floor to over 8,500 feet at Mt. San Jacinto State Park, where temperatures can be 30 to 40 degrees cooler.

• At the top, visitors can enjoy hiking trails, scenic overlooks, a natural history museum, and two mountain restaurants.

• Advance reservations are highly recommended during the summer.

More Info: pstramway.com

Day Tripping

August is an ideal time to take advantage of day trips to nearby destinations with cooler temperatures or different scenery. Here are a few recommendations:

Idyllwild, CA

• Drive Time: Approximately 1 hour

• What to Expect: Nestled in the San Jacinto Mountains, Idyllwild offers a charming small-town atmosphere with shaded forest hikes, art galleries, and local dining.

Joshua Tree National Park

• Drive Time: Approximately 40 minutes

• What to Expect: While it’s still hot, early morning visits to Joshua Tree are magical. Enjoy scenic drives, rock formations, and desert landscapes before midday.

Temecula Wine Country

• Drive Time: Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes

• What to Expect: Known for its award-winning wineries and rolling vineyard views, Temecula is an easy getaway for wine tasting, boutique shopping, and outdoor dining.

Closest Beach Getaway

• Newport Beach or Laguna Beach are both approximately a 2-hour drive west, depending on traffic. A great way to spend a full day with ocean breezes, coastal dining, and beachside walks.
  
  

Whether you’re staying local, heading for higher ground, or seeking indoor adventures, August in Greater Palm Springs offers more than just sunshine. Plan ahead, stay cool, and enjoy everything the region has to offer—even in the heart of summer.