It's like a regular for us now on a Thursday night. The early evening when the sun is starting to set. That's when the town becomes lively. Everyone's out in the pool during the day time and downtown is quiet. But come sundown, it's brings everyone out. It's nice that the city has the night market set up. Streets of course are blocked off for all the vendors to set up their goods. Parking situation, there's all the public lots both covered and uncovered. Street parking is available as well. I feel like each time I come, the vendors come and go. They tend to be at the same spot which maybes a reserved spot they put in. But each time, it either has less vendors or there's more added. Of course you have the regulars at their usual spot. This week, the stage wasn't there right in the middle of the walk. Also not many live music performances. There were your few one man show but haven't seen the school bands lately. Plus it seems like there were more food vendors this time. I could be wrong or just haven't been paying attention but the smell of everything was amazing. It's a good way to bring people out to downtown on a Thursday night. Slightly cooler in a sense...lol... It's still hot but that's when people are out and about when sunset comes which is nice as they can walk the street and check out all the local vendors. read more

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Great vibes, nice setup with the music playing at different points on the walk, well organized, lots of cute vendors and most shops were open for business and very friendly despite the chaos of the large influx of people. Very fun evening out. read more

You had me at Villagefest! An every week, Thursday night market in Palm Springs' Downtown area along Palm Canyon Drive that stretches out for several blocks. From the first week of the year to the last you can enjoy an assortment of food trucks, food stands, farmer's market esque goods, treasures, trinkets, music, clothing, art and more. Put on by the local city Department of Parks & Recreation, this open air market encompasses not just a huge portions of Palm Canyon, but also the side streets as well, where the street is closed off to Andreas Road from Arenas Road (I believe). All the vendors are kind, offer quality goods, service and care. Eats wise - Valley Fusion sushi was probably my fav - vegan mango sushi roll not to mention their agua frescas (try the Cucumber Lemon), but Julian's Food: Mediterranean Food at it's best was probably just as amazing with their veggie plate and sensational friendly energy and fast cooking. E & E Pel's - Italian Ice, Lemonade, & more was something I'd double back for among many others - great art, crystals, and items I gravitate toward when exploring a good night market/festival. Open from 7PM until 10PM in June to September (the hottest months of the year in PS), they are open as early as 6PM until 10PM in the cooler season (October to May). There are portable restrooms nearby as well as a handful of businesses like Starbucks, which also has AC if you need a beat from the summer months heat - sometimes resulting in still 100 degrees at night, maybe a little more of less. Plenty of parking garages, lots and spaces closeby. We parked near Hunters on Calle Encilia/Arenas as we knew we'd be doubling back for some drinks, but there are a lot of lots on Museum Drive as well as the main free unlimited lot on Baristo Rd/Indian Canyon next to Arenas. read more

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I intentionally attended on the first Thursday of Pacific Daylight Time. The first hour was in daylight during a heat wave, but the sun is always blocked early in Palm Springs by Mt. San Jacinto, thus no direct agony. Most vendors are ready to sell at 5:30 and some street artists are already performing. I walked head-to-toe, saw everything, and was able to spend 90 minutes before boarding Sunline. Parking, as per previous experience, is horrific. Alas, I did not buy anything although I had a stash-of-cash and I already dined at Sherman's, thus no appetite. I spent the afternoon visiting the downtown merchants, then every booth at the street fair. When RVing in the area I think downtown Palm Springs is OK a few times, but I don't see the point in going every week. read more

If you're in PS on a Thursday this is a must. It was a few streets blocked off with nothing but vendors. So many talented people selling their products. There are a lot of food trucks as well if you come hungry. A lot of Jewelry and baked goods. So many fun things to look at! Everyone was very friendly and welcoming and open to showing their product and talking about their talent. Can't wait to come back. The weather was great as well. Came mid September! read more

I'm so glad my friend and I were able to experience Villagefest while in town recently. Shoutout to our uber driver and Denise at 1501 for letting me know about it. The whole downtown area is closed off and they hold Villagefest every Thursday evening, all throughout the year. It's been going on since 1991 and I think it's a really cool experience! It's basically an art/craft fair with a sprinkling of farmers market. My friend and I walked around and had fun checking out all the vendors. We saw a lot of interesting art, jewelry, handmade items and gifts, food items, and more. They had a wide variety of vendors and they also had entertainment throughout the fest (singers, drummers, etc.) which was really fun. read more

Very crowded on a December evening. Plenty of parking behind The Rowan Hotel. Plenty of food options. Recommend the tamale guy who IMHO makes the best tamales ever! As expected, vendor offerings and pricing vary. Liked a Mexican fabric bag but was overpriced by 2x. Loved the handcrafted wooden boxes. We ended up not buying anything, Sadly, many brick and brick and mortar were closed. Would have loved to visit West Elm and others. Also, no visible security presence. Big no-no given current safety concerns. Just be careful. Overall, had an okay time- we have come here multiple times. Recommend if you haven't come before. read more

Stumbled upon this every Thursday rain or shine event after having an early dinner. The weather was perfect for this venue with many artisans along with a smaller group of food carts or stalls. What is nice is that many of Brick and Mortar shops are open during the 6-10 pm festival hours. Stop by "Just Chillin" to grab some ice cream and visited many of the stores that were open. Highly recommend if you are into this type of event. read more

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If you are in Palm Springs on a Thursday night, worth a stop at the village fest. It's essentially an outdoor market at night that sells food, food stands, products snd has some entertainment. The festival blocks off a Main Street in downtown and consist of at least three long blocks of vendors. The event is very well attended even on hot nights. The night we we went the temperature was 101F. There is ample free parking nearby. In front of the art museum there is a covered garage that is free for four hours. Note the art museum is open on Thursday night too: and free starting at 5pm. Definitely a good spot to cool down. Lastly grab a photo with Marilyn Monroe on the way to and from the parking lot. read more

Villagefest - The festival - Festivals Near Me - Palm Springs, California

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Palm Springs's ongoing Thursday night street fair is better than your average street fair. It's very crowded, but I loved high energy with locals and tourists. The regular brick and mortar eateries, bars, and shops stay open late as well. Like any street fair, there are the usual culprits: amateur local artists selling their arts and crafts, somewhat talented street performers whom hopefully kept their day jobs, overpriced candle and soaps, $25 T Shirts and $50 hoodies, crappy handcrafted jewelry, meat jerky of questionable food origins and freshness, stale pastries, a couple religious groups, crystals and stones that do not have any actual magical powers, political and my personal archnemesis: overpriced food vendors specializing in small portions and whom still expect a tip despite not offering any additional services such as wait staff, seating, tables, water, or restrooms. But there is always something likeable, my favorite was the Palm Springs Animal Shelter booth where I got myself a hat and tanktop for the wife...happy to contribute to great cause! read more

Was in town visiting friends and family in Palm Springs, CA and they suggested we hit up the local street fair called Villagefest (https://villagefest.org). My local contacts told me that during the pandemic Villagefest was essentially halted and just recently started back up again, so I was fortunate to be able to check it out. Because the weather in Palm Springs vacillates between, hot and scorching hot (it is the desert after all), VillageFest pretty much takes place year round every Thursday night between 6pm-10pm. It's your typical street fair with food stalls, vendors hawking various arts and crafts, as well as music buskers and other street performers. Sections of downtown Palm Springs are blocked off to cars and are only designated for pedestrian traffic, which is nice. Villagefest isn't particularly long and will take about 30-40 min to stroll from start to finish. So if you ever find yourself in the area on a Thursday, head downtown, stop in at the legendary Lappert's Ice Cream shop (https://www.yelp.com/biz/lapperts-premium-gourmet-ice-cream-palm-springs-palm-springs) for a cold treat, and then take in the sights and sounds of downtown Palm Springs. read more

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A great time every time - - - - - - - - January, 2024 Visit My wonderful wife and I visited Palm Desert / Palm Springs in January, and we only had a couple things planned - sun at the pool, visit Joshua Tree NP, and visit Palm Springs Village Festival / VillageFest. This was our first trip without the kids... and our first visit to Village Fest, just us, in 22+ years. The mix of vendors, food, and music is as good, and possibly better, than ever. We were quote impressed by: - The Animal Box where we discovered Kumar Davis' fantastic artwork on shirts and more... we picked up one for our daughter who loved it - Modern Roadrunner... he has wonderful artwork - shirts, cards, mugs... great visuals - Sub Rosa Apothecary's Aromax muscle-relaxing cream - thank you! - Cherry's Rugelach - Jewish / Russian pastries... in any combination of regular / gluten free (GF)/ sugar free and other factors you can think of... tasted great at Village Fest and while snacking in Joshua Tree NP - Chaupin Bakery's kafir... fantastic taste... wonderful flavors... great for desert... we samples many flavors and quickly finished a cup of key lime Thank you, to all who make Village Fest so fun! read more

When in Palm Springs you do what the locals do....eat, shop and be merry. Lol. Let's begin this exciting review. VillageFest takes place in downtown Palm Springs on Palm Canyon Drive every Thursday night. The street is closed to vehicular traffic and is transformed into a festive, pedestrian street fair. The perimeter of the event consists of Indian Canyon Drive to the east and Belardo Road to the west. Vendor booths are set up on both sides of the street, and visitors are able to stroll through the traffic-free event. This street fair has a good backdrop view of the mountain and gorgeous palm trees and feature arts, crafts, food, and entertainment! I have no doubt this is a beautiful street festival incomparable to LA street festivals. Parking around the venue can be a little bit tricky but luckily I was able to park at a free public parking lot. Overall, I enjoyed my street walk runway of PS village festival. I highly recommend you visit. read more

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I was blown away by Villagefest! Was expecting it to be 3 or 4 blocks long but it spanned more like 8! Lots of delicious street food including bao buns, pupusas, barbecue, sushi, pizza, tacos, and SO much more. They also had some more farmers market type stalls with dates, nuts, breads, and other things like that. A ton of jewelry and crafts as well. This is a must when you're in Palm Springs. Every Thursday night starting at 6:00. read more

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Love all of Villagefest except for that one vendor who sells bowls and figurines made of quartz and stones. ( HEr table was set up right at the intersection close to starbucks and H&M and right across the street where dates vendor was- intersection of w. Taquitz & S. Palm Canyon dr.) There were 2 women behind the table. My daughter took a pic of the bowls on display. One woman with short hair suddenly grabbed my 13 yo daughter's phone while also yelling at my daughter aggressively to delete the photo. I asked to not touch my daughter and that's when she let go. My dtr deleted the pic. Woman was mad and stated that no one is allowed to take pics of arts and crafts at the villagefest because items were handcrafted meaning she didnt want her designs duplicated. Easy problem, easy solution and we would easily respected that I was upset that she was aggressive that got my daughter crying and avoiding her table on the way back to the car. I talked to her again and she made a half meant sorry after I told her she could.have asked nicely, or posted a sign no pictures allowed. She even argued that my daughter could have asked first and I told her it is a public place which shut her up and half meant sorry to me but not my daughter! I have a feeling she probably just squatting vendor and did not pay for her dues that is why she was so aggressive of pics taken. To the organizer, I left you a voicemail regarding this. As a visitor, villagefest was really nice and I was able to buy cute skirts but that lady who did not have a sign on her table put a bad taste in my family's experience of the fest which was unfortunate. read more

Food from Vendors are amazing! Service is great! The lively music is very entertaining! It's like farmers market at night read more

Villagefest - Festivals Near Me - Palm Springs, California

Parking can be tough, but we parked for free at the Museum garage (101 N Museum Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262). It was about a 6-minute walk from the garage to the festival. The festival is pretty big and is held every Thursday. They have a lot of unique handmade items and food choices. The place was pretty packed, but it was such a cool event to check out. They have music playing, really nice people, and a lot of cool vendors! Tip(s): - Free parking at the Museum Garage (around 101 N Museum Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262 -- follow the cars since the pinpoint isn't pointing at the garage exactly or map it out in advance to locate where the garage is) - Free event held every Thursday (6 PM - 10 PM) - They close the downtown streets, so you'll be taking some detours read more

Villagefest is a weekly festival. Every Thursday evening, part of Palm Springs Canyon Dr. transforms. Arts, crafts, food, and entertainment fill the street. The performers are spaced out in a very smart way. There is space to enjoy their performances. Musicians are far enough apart that their sounds are not competing. The event is a great way to sample some of the best Palm Springs has to offer. Along with the Villagefest booths, many of the surrounding restaurants and shops are still open. This is the perfect night to shop Palm Springs Canyon Dr. Come out and support local. read more

Villagefest - Festivals Near Me - Palm Springs, California

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Loved this! Being able to browse different vendors and food shops while also getting the opportunity to visit the businesses around. Family friendly and such a good vibe read more

If you like craft fairs then you will enjoy this. Several blocks of vendors and ways to connect with true artists about their crafts. It's also alongside various stores and restaurants along the way so you can spend the entire evening exploring downtown Palm Springs! read more

Lots of vendors, food, crafts, etc. Crowded but to be expected. Stores and restaurants along street are open as well. read more

We used to come every time we were in town on a Thursday. But it didn't happen for quite while, and this was our first time back since Covid. Wow - it was packed! Wall to wall people in the street! A fun vibe., but a little much. Most vendors were jewelry, clothes abd craft items, some food, like breads, a bit of produce. Juices, gelato. Not much prepared food - only saw crepes and tamales. It's free, which is nice, but not sure it's a "must do." read more

Villagefest - Festivals Near Me - Palm Springs, California

We were staying at the Residence Inn in La Quinta and asked for a suggestion of something to do. This Thursday, head down to the VillageFest in downtown Palm Springs. They close the main drag so you have to search out parking, which we found at the museum. There are lots of foods booths, a block full...and many artists and crafts people. It was early May and the weather was outstanding. A great way to spend a relaxed evening. read more

During past visits to Palm Springs I've always enjoyed being able to attend Villagefest. This time i was a bit disappointed. The vendors used to be set up back-to-back down the middle of the road, which allowed for us to engage the vendors and the shops easily. It also kept the flow of people smoother since you didn't have stumble your way through the crowd. The poor shop owners were edged out of the crowds because you had to frequently back track to get to a shop you might be interested in. The live music was very nice. The Youth band in front of the Library, and the young lady in front of the Birkenstock shop were especially good. read more

Lots of stuff to see, and buy, if you passing through it's brilliant. Every week it gets old. So vacationing or snow birds awesome! They do have some good food down there read more

Every Thursday night come on down and enjoy arts and crafts along with music, and various food booths. It's on 6-10pm. It's a guaranteed good time. read more

Villagefest - Festivals Near Me - Palm Springs, California

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No curb parking. Street gets blocked off a few hours before fest. This was a very neat thing to attend. Most of the food booths were at the start or end (which ever way you're starting from) of the strip. There were pupusas, gyros, bbq, tacos, etc. Home baked bread and pastries, nuts, dried fruit, dates, mosaic lights, clothing, jewelry, art, stones and crystals and so much more. It was nostalgic of the good old days where there was no covid and everyone was just hanging around getting their steps in. Kids running around laughing. Some vendors take card Masks- optional read more

I still love it, been here for many years and moved out of state but every time I am around I go to this nice ambience fest. I enjoy the walk, the art, the vendors that sell authentic art, nothing here is fake it is all handmade and artistic and I love that. If you want to have a nice walk and enjoy art as much as I do, go and enjoy the evening every Thursday from 6-10pm. read more

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The outdoor market draws quite a crowd. It can be fun to watch the live performances (dancers, singers). Lots of artists, crafts, clothing, jewelers and unique food booths (like baklava, Aspen Mills baked goods, jerky and kettle corn). I have to say, the food vendors have changed quite a bit.. doesn't seem as good as I remember from previous years. I haven't tried all of them, in all fairness, but the ones I have.. they aren't as impressive. I prefer to dine at the local restaurants and then walk the market to check out the vendors. Lots of great vendors with fun and unique items. Try the local restaurants, far better than the food vendors, plus more available seating. read more

Came down to yucca valley for a stay-cation and heard about villagefest so we went. It was a very fun experience. There were so many food and merch vendors that you would leave satisfied. I had tamales and empanadas which were both sooo incredible. There were also vendors selling jewelry paintings, candles, and other homemade goods. Overall it was a very fun time of music, food, and good vibes. read more

I absolutely love coming to village fest in Palm Springs. It's nice seeing local artist & their craftsmanship. It's nice to try all kinds of foods and buying local baked goods. I love supporting community. I highly recommend going. It's every Thursday evening in Palm Springs read more

I always stop by the Palm Springs Villagefest if I'm in town on Thursdays. It's so nice walking through the different vendors seeing art, cool designs and hearing musicians play their music. Restaurants nearby were all very busy and hopping. I'd definitely recommend stopping by. I found parking on the street a few blocks away without a problem. read more

Villagefest - Festivals Near Me - Palm Springs, California

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Reason for visit: To support local! Visit date: January 24, 2019 First time? Yes. Villagefest happens every Thursday night in downtown Palm Springs. The streets are closed off to car traffic and local vendors set up shop on ~6 blocks. Parking can be difficult so come early if you're driving. There were hot food vendors (rotisserie chicken, tamales, ...), packaged food vendors (baked goods, dates, candy, ...), and artists and makers selling their wares (soaps, art, clothing, ...). There was even an "Ask the Rabbi" station. Some vendors are cash only so come prepared. This is a fun event for locals and visitors! read more

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Nice fest to walk around since we were visiting Palm Springs. Food vendors looked good but we didn't really try anything since we had other dinner plans. Good amount of vendors. Fest was quite a few blocks. Enjoyed some of the musicians playing. Didn't really buy much but was beautiful evening and lots to look at. Would recommend to my friends if they are in the area on a Thursday evening. read more

The festival itself is so fun! A great way to bring the locals together- I'm all about supporting mom & pop businesses. Really enjoyed walking around and taking in downtown Palm Springs. However- like the reviews below, STAY AWAY from the Tropical Flame. They serve an eclectic mix of food: tacos, polish sausages, chicken, etc. No one specialty. The food was very questionable and I've been sick since I ate the polish sausage with cheese fries last night. read more

This was one of my favorite things about Palm Springs when we visited a few months ago. We weren't expecting it to be so big (or so fun) and I'm sad to say we didn't take advantage of the full time it was open. In Michigan we have lots of art festivals throughout the summer and this reminded me of one of those events. Spread out in the streets of down town Pam Springs, it takes place every Thursday night. There's a great mix of vendors, sure to have something for everyones tastes. It's fun to explore the different talents of all of the vendors. There's art, food, photography, music, jewelry, and anything else you can imagine. If you're visiting on a Thursday night make sure to stop by for a fun change of pace and a chance to support local artists! Grab dinner from one of the vendors or one of the delicious restaurants near by and make a night of it!! read more

Last time we came to Palm Springs we missed this. This time I planned it so we would go but I was worried as it was canceled the 2 previous weeks due to bad weather. It was extremely windy in Rancho Mirage so I asked our concierge if the Villagefest was still on. He said yes so we went. The weather was warm and calm there....odd as it isn't that far from Rancho Mirage. The place was bustling with tons of people and their dogs. A wonderful variety of vendors everywhere and the surrounding restaurants were all busy. Breakdancers, artists and singers on the corners kept people entertained and food vendors satisfied the need for a meal, a snack, a drink or dessert. I would recommend going as it is lively and a fun atmosphere, but definitely crowded. They close off the streets so park slightly away from the area or arrive early to find a spot. We lucked out and got a spot in the free parking garage. read more

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I love the eclectic community outdoor bazaar that goes on every Thursday downtown on Palm Canyon. So much so that I try my hardest to include Thursday night on any trip to the desert. With more than 200 booths offering beautiful art, handcrafted items and unique food, it's a very fun bruising experience. Each block offers great street entertainment...all in the heart of downtown Palm Springs. There is always great people and dog watching while you shop or stroll. From October to May, the hours are 6:00 pm -10:00 pm and June to September, they are 7:00 pm -10:00 pm. read more

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Villagefest isn't really a "business" - it's a street fair every Thursday night in downtown Palm Springs. Most of the food vendors are at the north end of the fair and VERY busy. Lots of street musicians who were very talented. Almost too many vendors to choose from. My sisters and I had a fun time there. Highly recommend read more

This was a great time. I walked the entire event twice and sampled from some of the food stalls and chatted with the vendors. I am sure these offerings change depending on time of year and what's popular. During my visit, most vendors were all about the CBD and it was amazing to see how many products offer CBD. High add the sky... I mean the sky is the limit... I think Mexican and Mediterranean cuisine were most prevalent among the food stalls. I went with two wraps, one chicken and one gyro, from one of the many Mediterranean offerings. Note, prices vary from vendor to vendor for similar items so build up your appetite by walking the blocks first before making your mind up. Of course, you can just graze as you go--I am not the boss of you. There was an impressive high school jazz ensemble at one end near Moxie. They deserve a shout out for their music skills and are worth a listen by the crowd. read more