October was fabulous, but it was just the opening act to what we call “season” in Palm Springs. Not “the season,” just “season.” Batman knows.
November days are sunny but not too hot, and the nights are cool, but not cold. Not only is it great hiking weather, it is also excellent pool weather — the sun is warm and the air is cool, kinda like Hawaii without getting spit on by rain. Our streets are bustling day and night, and you’d be wise to make a reservation before going out to dinner at one of our many restaurants. It’s the weather that puts what we call “season” here in Palm Springs into full swing.
We’ve got BIG events, theater, music, tucked away places to try, and some brand new exciting night clubs and restaurants. I don’t want to keep you all day, so let’s go!
Events
Nov. 4-6: Pride — This link takes you to Gay Desert Guide’s links to Pride events. If you enjoy being confused and confounded, you can go here.
Nov. 6: Pride Parade
Nov. 11-13: Women’s Jazz Festival at the Palm Springs Convention Center
Nov. 18-21: JOGS Palm Springs Gem & Jewelry Show — The JOGS Gem & Jewelry Show is one of the largest jewelry trade shows in the Americas, bringing together a variety of manufacturers, wholesalers, and brands. IYKYK.
Nov. 19: Props and Hops Craft Beer Festival — At the Palm Springs Air Museum, from 1 to 6 p.m. Get buzzed on land and buzz around in the sky in a warbird. Tons of food and entertainment.
Pride brings everyone out to Palm Springs. Photo courtesy of Visit Palm Springs
Ongoing music and libations
Melvyn’s — At the Ingleside Inn … so old school Palm Springs you’ll squee. Celebrities often sit in at the piano bar. There’s GREAT music from Mikael Healy all through the week, and the Sunday Jam is not to be missed, with all of the best musicians P.S. has to offer.
Palm Springs Cultural Center — It’s not just movies! Upstairs (I think they’re calling it Come On Up?) during the week expect an eclectic mix of styles from local musicians.
The Purple Room — Open every day except Monday (and who knows, maybe they’ll open on Mondays again during season).
PS Underground — It’s pricey, but definitely a one-of-a-kind experience and totally worth every simoleon.
Oscar’s — Some great shows coming up, and if I can urge you to go see at least one thing there, please let it be Mid-Century Moderns.
Theater
Dezart Performs (Choir Boy is an official Pride event)
Desert Ensemble Theatre (at PSCC, good yet unusual theater)
Hooch-y hideaways
Small and intimate spots to get away from the crowds.
La Boisson (at Fleur Noire Hotel)
Le Fern, 411 E. Palm Canyon Dr. (4-9pm 7 days a week)
Del Rey (at Villa Royale)
Welcome to La Boisson. Photo courtesy of Fleur Noire Hotel
Outdoor activities
Modern and More Bike Tours — You need your own bike, but if you’re staying in a boutique hotel, chances are they’ve got one for you. This is not for kids, it’s all about history and architecture and is operated by Brennan, one of our Modernism Bus Tour guides. All quiet streets, no hills, constant sunshine, and very little traffic. Even novices will enjoy this educational ride — however, people with back problems may not. Know thyself before you book.
Historic Walking Tours from the Palm Springs Historical Society — Good luck trying to figure out which one to book. I want to go on ALL of them.
MOGO Silent Disco — Dance like nobody’s watching down the streets of Palm Springs. Everyone gets their own headset and is jamming to the same tune on this dancing tour. Outrageous outfits are encouraged, and a little stamina (60 minutes of boogie is a workout!) required.
NEW!
Sancho’s — 411 E. Palm Canyon, Palm Springs.
Coming soon
Reforma Night Club (Nov. 4)
Churrasco Brazilian Steakhouse (December 2022)
Thanksgiving
Alert! Apparently there’s a turkey shortage, which I find weird. Have you ever been to Wisconsin? They’re all over the road. OpenTable put together a great list of every restaurant in the Coachella Valley serving up the remaining turkeys. Most of the Palm Springs options are on page 2, and include Melvyn’s at Ingleside Inn, Azucar at La Serena Villas, and Del Rey at Villa Royale.
See you next month!
The elegant dining room at Melvyn’s. Photo courtesy of Visit Palm Springs
