July in the desert can be a tough month to love, but this is when the locals get their beautiful valley all to themselves.
It’s no secret that activities and events slow down in the summertime, but that doesn’t mean there’s nothing to do. On the contrary, July continues to boast a number of fun celebrations, concerts and air-conditioned events which make getting out of the house a little easier in the heat.
Here’s what’s happening in the Coachella Valley during the month of July.
World Cup watch parties
The Coachella Valley, and rest of the nation, is buzzing from excitement from all the World Cup action, which is being held in various locations across Canada, Mexico and the United States. Instead of watching the games at home, head to a number of local businesses that are hosting watch parties such as Taproom 29 at Spotlight 29 Casino in Coachella, Big Rock Pub and JD’s Sports Bar in Indio, The 19th Hole in Palm Desert and Hair of the Dog Sports Bar in Palm Springs.
When: Now through Sunday, July 19
Where: Various locations in the Coachella Valley
Cost: Free admission
More info: desertsun.com
Palm Springs Power baseball games
Baseball season continues for a few more weeks in Palm Springs. The Palm Springs Power team are hoping for a historic run toward their fourth straight California Premier Collegiate League championship, and games take place Tuesdays, Wednesday, Fridays and Saturdays every week. Promo days are also available every week ($3 Draft Tuesday, $6 margaritas on Wednesday, free kids 12 and under admissions on Saturday).
When: Home games 7 p.m. July 1, 3, 4, 7, 10, 11, 14, 15 and 17
Where: Palm Springs Stadium, 1901 E. Baristo Road, Palm Springs
Cost: $10 regular admission, $8 seniors, $5 youth, $16 Power ticket admission (includes a hot dog, chips and soda), $100 season ticket
More info: palmspringspowerbaseball.com
Filmmaker screenings at Festival Theaters
Head to Festival Theaters throughout July for special screenings of new films with their filmmakers present. The lineup includes “Atropia” featuring actress and Palm Springs native Alia Shawkat on Thursday, July 2; “Situations” with director/writer/actor Greg Vrotsos on Saturday, July 11; “Honeyjoon” with director Lilian T. Mehrel and producer Andreia Nunes on Monday, July 13; and “Maddie’s Secret” with director and star John Early on Thursday, July 23. Screenings all begin at 7 p.m.
When: 7 p.m. July 2, 11, 13 and 23
Where: Festival Theaters, 789 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs
Cost: $20
More info: festivaltheaters.com
Tortoise Chat
Have questions about desert tortoises? Visit the Santa Rosa & San Jacinto Mountains National Monument Visitor Center’s desert tortoise enclosure and learn about conservation efforts to study and protect the wild desert tortoise population in the area. Visitors can also meet Bowser, an adopted Mojave desert tortoise who lives on site.
When: 8:30-11:30 a.m. Friday, July 3, 10, 17 and 24
Where: Santa Rosa & San Jacinto Mountains National Monument Visitor Center, 51-500 Highway 74, Palm Desert
Cost: Free admission
More info: desertmountains.org
Food Truck Fridays
Head to downtown Indio every Friday night to sample a smattering of delicious bites from food trucks. The vendor lineup changes regularly, featuring returning favorites and new ones. This event is family- and pet-friendly.
When: 5 to 10 p.m. Friday July 3, 10, 17 and 24
Where: Corner of Towne Street and Bliss Avenue, Indio
Cost: Free, prices depend on vendor
More info: indio.org/our-city/food-truck-fridays
City of Palm Springs Dive-In Movies screening of ‘The Sandlot’
Looking for a way to cool off while staying entertained? The public is invited to the Palm Springs Swim Center several times this summer for special Dive-In Movie nights where you can float in the pool, relax with family and friends, and enjoy a movie under the stars. In honor of the city’s Fourth of July festivities, this July 3 Dive-In Movie event will screen an all-American classic: “The Sandlot.”
When: Open swim begins at 6 p.m., movie begins at dusk on Friday, July 3
Where: Palm Springs Swim Center, 405 S. Pavilion Way, Palm Springs
Cost: Free admission
More info: instagram.com
Hot Summer Nights
It’s that time of year when the pool is calling — but a dip sounds much more appealing once the sun has set. That’s where this weekly Palm Desert Aquatic Center event comes in. Grab your pool attire and head to the pool at Civic Center Park every Tuesday and Friday night for an evening of music, open recreational swimming, water slides and other fun pool activities. Attendees can also purchase food from the aquatic center’s newly expanded Hot Spot Cafe menu.
When: 7:30-10:30 p.m. every Tuesday and Friday now through Aug. 14
Where: Palm Desert Aquatic Center, 73-751 Magnesia Falls Drive, Palm Desert
Cost: Free with purchase of a $12 adult day pass, $9 youth or senior day pass, $7.75 junior day pass (ages 2-5), or three-month or annual pass (see website for all pass types)
More info: pdpool.com
The Commodores
One of the greatest Motown and R&B/funk artists of all time, The Commodores is coming to town for a special live performance. The band has influenced artists both young and old across all genres with their classic songs, some of which include “Easy,” “Brick House” and “Nightshirt.”
When: 8 p.m. Friday, July 3
Where: Agua Caliente Casino Rancho Mirage, 32-250 Bob Hope Drive, Rancho Mirage
Cost: Starting at $55.20
More info: aguacalientecasinos.com/agua-event/
Fourth of July celebrations
This year’s Fourth of July celebration is a big one, as the United States celebrates its 250th anniversary. There are a number of events planned all throughout the Coachella Valley to ring in the nation’s birthday, from city-sponsored fireworks and drone shows to gatherings at various local businesses. Check out The Desert Sun’s Fourth of July guide for a rundown of holiday fun.
When: The main event is July 4 of course, but celebrations take place July 2-5
Where: All throughout the Coachella Valley
Cost: Varies depending on event
More info: desertsun.com
Movies at the Plaza Theatre
The month of July at the Palm Springs Plaza Theatre is filled with plenty of classic movie screenings to catch. The lineup includes summer classic “Jaws” on July 5, “Grease” on July 11 and “Titanic the Musical” on July 19 (captured live on stage for cinema screenings).
When: 2 p.m. July 5, 3 p.m. July 11 and 3 p.m. July 19
Where: Plaza Theatre, 128 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs
Cost: $20
More info: palmspringsplazatheatre.com/events
Retrospective films at the Palm Springs Cultural Center
The Palm Springs Cultural Center will bring people back in time with a number of retrospective film screenings all month long. Series include Where Were You in 1976? (“Nashville” on July 2), Musical Matinees (“Paint Your Wagon” on July 5, “The King and I” on July 12 and “Thoroughly Modern” on July 19), Baby Boomer Blockbusters! (“Jaws” on July 11 and “The Way We Were” on July 25) and the Elizabeth Taylor Retrospective (“The Last Time I Saw Paris” on July 18). The Desert Film Society is also screening foreign films in July (“Guru” on July 11 and “Porte Bagage” on July 25). EDITOR’S NOTE: The Palm Springs Cultural Center is, at time of this story’s publication, temporarily closed after an attic fire, so continue to check the venue’s website to see which events have been canceled or rescheduled.
When: Various screenings throughout July
Where: Palm Springs Cultural Center, 2300 E. Baristo Road, Palm Springs
Cost: $12-$15
More info: psculturalcenter.org/pscc
Coachella Valley Scorpions VS. LAXtreme
The Coachella Valley Scorpions pro pickleball team will hold an exhibition match on July 9 at Agua Caliente Casino where they will introduce their 2026 roster, face off against a new pro team, the Los Angeles Xtreme, and host a celebrity match featuring NFL Hall of Famer and pickleball enthusiast Terrell Owens. It will take place at the Show inside the casino at 3:30-4:45 p.m. with an on-court Meet and Dink VIP experience, followed by the team introductions at 5:30 p.m. and a celebration of their 2025 Championship with a presentation of their trophy. General admission doors open at 5 p.m.
When: 5:30 p.m. Thursday, July 9
Where: Agua Caliente Casino Rancho Mirage, 32-250 Bob Hope Drive, Rancho Mirage
Cost: General admission $30, VIP Meet & Dink $50
More info: aguacalientecasinos.com/agua-event/
Indio Movie Night at Center Stage screening of ‘Hoppers’
Head to Indio’s Center Stage for a free movie night with the community. Next up on the big screen is the animated film “Hoppers,” which follows a 19-year-old animal lover who uses technology to place her consciousness into a robotic beaver to uncover mysteries within the animal world. Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets, lawn chairs, snacks and more.
When: 6:30 p.m. Thursday, July 9
Where: Center Stage, 82-881 Miles Ave., Indio
Cost: Free admission
More info: indio.org/home
Jo Koy Live
Catch comedian Jo Koy at Agua Caliente Casino in Rancho Mirage this month. The funny man performed on “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno” in 2005 and became one of a select few comics to receive a standing ovation on the show. Since then, he’s appeared on “Chelsea Lately,” released comedy specials and hosted the 2023 Golden Globe Awards.
When: 8 p.m. Friday, July 10 and Saturday, July 11
Where: Agua Caliente Casino Rancho Mirage, 32-250 Bob Hope Drive, Rancho Mirage
Cost: Starting at $107
More info: aguacalientecasinos.com/agua-event
Palm Springs Food Truck Festival
Saturday nights are a little tastier in Palm Springs these days. The new Palm Springs Food Truck Festival now takes place every Saturday evening at Sunrise Park, bringing a variety of food vendors and cuisines to local foodies. The event is hosted by Wanderlust Food Truck Fest, which holds similar gatherings in Hemet, Lake Elsinore and Murrieta.
When: 5-10 p.m. Saturday July 11, 18 and 25
Where: Sunrise Park, corner of Ramon Road and South Sunrise Way
Cost: Free, prices depend on vendor
More info: wanderlustevents.net
Desert Nights on the BLVD
Desert Nights on the BLVD is Desert Hot Springs’ premier monthly outdoor event. There are two exciting nights each month to enjoy filled with music, with July bringing a local band to the stage (TBD) and Country Music Fest: Country Nation. Both events bring music, food, local vendors and family-friendly fun to the heart of the city.
When: 6-10 p.m. Saturday, July 11 (local band); 6-10 p.m. Saturday, July 25
Where: 66-120 Pierson Blvd., Desert Hot Springs
Cost: Free
More info: cityofdhs.org/events/
Game Night for Adults
Head to the La Quinta Library for a special adults-only game night. This fun kid-free event gives people the chance to network and socialize while playing various Switch games, board games or card games.
When: 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 15
Where: La Quinta Library, 78-275 Calle Tampico, La Quinta
Cost: Free admission
More info: playinlaquinta.com/event/game-night-for-adults/
City of Palm Springs Dive-In Movies screening of ‘Surf’s Up’
If you loved the July 3 Dive-In Movie screening, there’s one more chance to do it all over again July 18. The public is invited to the Palm Springs Swim Center for a special Dive-In Movie night where you can float in the pool, relax with family and friends, and enjoy a movie under the stars. This week’s film is the 2007 animated family comedy “Surf’s Up.”
When: Open swim begins at 7 p.m., movie begins at dusk on Saturday, July 18
Where: Palm Springs Swim Center, 405 S. Pavilion Way, Palm Springs
Cost: Free admission
More info: instagram.com
Ezequiel Peña
Mexican singer and songwriter Ezequiel Peña is a celebrated voice in regional Mexican music, known for his powerful vocals, charismatic stage presence and deep connection to traditional banda and norteño styles. Often referred to as “El Charro de la Banda,” Peña has built a career defined by authenticity, passion and musical versatility, showcasing romantic ballads, heartfelt rancheras and high-energy banda anthems.
When: 8 p.m. Saturday July 18
Where: Spotlight 29 Casino, 46-200 Harrison Place, Coachella
Cost: Starting at $43.85
More info: spotlight29.com/entertainment/
David Spade I Got a Feel For It tour
Comedian David Spade became a household favorite during his tenure as a cast member on NBC’s “Saturday Night Live.” Since then, he’s appeared in numerous comedic films, such as “Tommy Boy,” “Grown Ups” and “Hotel Transylvania.” Spade is bringing his stand-up show to the desert on July 18, but after that, he can next be seen hosting the new Fox game show, “Snake Oil,” debuting Sept. 27.
When: 8 p.m. Saturday, July 18
Where: Agua Caliente Casino Rancho Mirage, 32-250 Bob Hope Drive, Rancho Mirage
Cost: Starting at $71.60
More info: aguacalientecasinos.com/agua-event/
National Ice Cream Day
While this one isn’t a federal holiday, it really should be. Enjoying some creamy, sweet ice cream is a perfect way to cool down in the desert heat, and there’s plenty of delicious spots to be found all throughout the valley. If you need a little inspiration, check out The Desert Sun’s 2023 and 2024 ice cream guides on some of the best spots to get a sweet treat to celebrate.
When: Sunday, July 19
Where: All throughout the Coachella Valley
Cost: Varies
More info: www.desertsun.com
Happy Together Tour
This year marks the 17th year of the highly successful, hit-filled summer package, The Happy Together Tour. The touring sensation returns with a show full of chart-topping hits from the ‘60s and ‘70s featuring The Association, The Troggs, Chicago lead singer Jason Scheff , Gary Puckett, The Fortunes, Ron Dante from The Archies and The Turtles, The Vogues and The Cowsills.
When: 6 p.m. Sunday, July 19
Where: Spotlight Showroom at Spotlight 29 Casino, 46-200 Harrison Place, Coachella
Cost: Starting at $43.95
More info: spotlight29.com
Goo Goo Dolls
The Goo Goo Dolls return to the Coachella Valley with another concert full of hits and energy this month. Formed by John Rzeznik and Robby Takac in 1986, the Goo Goo Dolls have quietly broken records, contributed a string of staples to the American songbook, connected to millions of fans and impacted popular music for three-plus decades. The group has garnered four Grammy Award nominations and nearly a dozen platinum and gold singles combined with hits such as “Iris,” “Better Days” and “Name.”
When: 8 p.m. Tuesday, July 21
Where: Agua Caliente Casino Rancho Mirage, 32-250 Bob Hope Drive, Rancho Mirage
Cost: From $55.70
More info: aguacalientecasinos.com/agua-event/
Bill Burr Live
An Emmy and Grammy Award nominee, Bill Burr has defined his own path as a world-renowned comedian, director/writer/producer/actor and a genre-defining podcaster. Fans will see him starring alongside Jeremy Allen White, Mikey Madison and Jeremy Strong in Aaron Sorkin’s film, “The Social Reckoning,” premiering in theaters on Oct. 9, and he will shoot his film, “Born Losers,” in the fall.
When: 8 p.m. Friday, July 24
Where: Agua Caliente Casino Rancho Mirage, 32-250 Bob Hope Drive, Rancho Mirage
Cost: From $140
More info: aguacalientecasinos.com/agua-event/
Cole Swindell
Country music singer/songwriter Cole Swindell is headed to Fantasy Springs Resort Casino on Saturday, July 25. He got his start writing songs for artists Craig Campbell, Luke Bryan and Florida Georgia Line before launching his own solo career. Swindell is known for hits such as “”Chillin’ It,” “You Should Be Here,” “Flatliner,” “Never Say Never” and “She Had Me At Heads Carolina.”
When: 8 p.m. Saturday, July 25
Where: Fantasy Springs Resort Casino, 84-245 Indio Springs Parkway, Indio
Cost: Starting at $72.50
More info: fantasyspringsresort.com/cole-swindell-live/
Dancing with the Stars Con 2026
Fans of “Dancing with the Stars” will get up close to all the action with the first ever Dancing with the Stars Con kicking off at the end of this month. This fan convention and live show makes its debut at Acrisure Arena, bringing stars and plenty of dancing to the desert. Dancing with the Stars Con will offer two live dance performances featured on the ballroom floor, interactive live panels with favorite contestants, interactive photo experiences, exhibits, Q&A sessions, exclusive merchandise and unique fan experiences. Fan can expect to see performer JoJo Siwa, judges Carrie Ann Inaba and Bruno Tonioli, dancing pros Brandon Armstrong and Valentin Chmerkovskiy, actresses Danielle Fishel, Elaine Hendrix and Rumer Willis, retired figure skater Johnny Weir and others.
When: Friday, July 31-Sunday, Aug. 2
Where: Acrisure Arena, 75-702 Varner Road, Palm Desert
Cost: Starting at $244
More info: dwtscon.com
Jake Owen
Jake Owen is bringing a night of country music to Agua Caliente Casino. He is a country music mainstay with a career boasting a collection of gold and platinum records, 10 No. 1 singles and more than 2.5 billion U.S. on-demand streams. The chart-topping superstar is known by his laid-back style and hit recordings such as “Barefoot Blue Jean Night,” “Beachin’,” “Anywhere With You,” “Alone With You” and “The One That Got Away.”
When: 8 p.m. Friday, July 31
Where: Agua Caliente Casino Rancho Mirage, 32-250 Bob Hope Drive, Rancho Mirage
Cost: Starting at $60.55
More info: aguacalientecasinos.com/agua-event/
Ema Sasic covers entertainment and health in the Coachella Valley. Reach her at ema.sasic@desertsun.com, on X @ema_sasic or on Instagram @emasasic.
This article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun: Your complete guide to the top Coachella Valley events this July
Reporting by Ema Sasic, Palm Springs Desert Sun / Palm Springs Desert Sun
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Ema Sasic, Palm Springs Desert Sun | USA TODAY Network
