Discover holiday cheer in La Quinta! Find the perfect handmade gifts, relaxing hotel getaways, festive meals and welcoming community events this season.
Annual Casita Lighting at La Quinta Museum
December 3, 2025 | 5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
La Quinta Museum, 77-885 Avenida Montezuma, La Quinta, CA 92253
Watch twinkling lights sparkle under the desert sky at the Casita Lighting at La Quinta Museum, one of the city’s most cherished holiday traditions. The casitas are emblematic of the region’s desert heritage and traditional dwellings, and the lighting of the casita and the museum’s lumberyard buildings create a warm, picturesque glow against the night sky.
Enjoy live music by Mariachi Flor de Dahlia and sip hot chocolate as you take in the beautiful atmosphere with the La Quinta community. Residents and visitors are invited to attend this free event.
City of La Quinta’s Tree Lighting Ceremony
December 5, 2025 | 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
La Quinta Civic Center, 78495 Calle Tampico, La Quinta, CA 92253
The City of La Quinta’s Annual Tree Lighting officially marks the start of the holiday season in La Quinta. Civic Center Park is transformed into a winter wonderland as the grand holiday tree lights up, bringing holiday cheer to the community for the winter season.
Just because you’re in the desert doesn’t mean you have to miss out on snow! Kids and families are invited to enjoy the snow play area, with snow transported in from the North Pole just in time for the holidays. Don’t forget your coats and gloves to stay cozy.
Santa will be ready to read wish lists and take photos by the Christmas tree. Live music, train rides, holiday performances and kids activities are also in store. Residents and visitors are invited to attend this free event.
Gingerbread Lane
December 6, December 13 and December 20, 2025 | 11:00 am – 5:00 p.m.
Old Town Artisan Studios, 78046 Calle Barcelona, La Quinta, CA, 92253
Take a stroll through Gingerbread Lane, where twinkling lights and festive storefronts bring the magic of the holidays to life. You’ll be transported to an enchanted holiday town with a beautiful Holiday Cottage, dazzling lights, trimmed garlands and a spectacular 17-foot Christmas tree. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be at the holiday cottage, ready to take iconic family photos for this year’s holiday card.
True to Old Town Artisan Studio’s mission, the event centers on the joy of making handmade gifts. Guests can decorate freshly baked gingerbread cookies and paint handmade clay ornaments to take home. Live music and dance performances by talented local youth groups will take place throughout the entire event. While you take in the sights and sounds, sip hot cider and indulge with fresh cookies.
Art on Main Street
December 13, 2025 | 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Main Street, Old Town La Quinta
Spend a holiday morning or afternoon at Art on Main Street, La Quinta’s celebrated event that brings together local and regional artists. Stroll through and explore handcrafted fine art, jewelry, photography, ceramics, textiles, glass, woodwork and more.
Marvyn’s Magic Theater
Holiday Shows on December 17 and December 31, 2025
46630 Washington Street Suite 1, La Quinta, CA 92253
For one-of-a-kind entertainment, visit Marvyn’s Magical Theater to see talented performers take the stage and bring holiday cheer to La Quinta. You’ll find incredible performances from singers, actors, comedians and more – all featuring the signature magical, comedic talent of Jeff Hobson, Maryvn’s beloved host.
For a full list of shows and to purchase tickets, visit marvynsmagictheater.com.
Support small businesses this season by shopping local in La Quinta. Stroll through boutique-lined streets twinkling with lights and filled with festive cheer. You’ll find one-of-a-kind gifts, handmade jewelry and artisan foods — all perfect for spreading holiday joy.
Alexandrite Active & Golf Wear
Fitness apparel and activewear for golf, tennis, hiking, yoga and more.
H20 Closet
A modern apothecary with a unique collection of skincare, candles, soaps and more.
JadaBug’s Kids Boutique
Premium boutique for all things baby and kids, including car seats, strollers, toys and clothing.
La Quinta Olive Oil Company
Gourmet oils and vinegars for food lovers.
Celebrate the season with unforgettable meals at La Quinta’s best restaurants for brunch and dinner.
Breakfast with Santa at Twenty6
December 14, 2025
Enjoy a grand holiday brunch with festive decor and a special visit from Santa.
Christmas Eve and Day at Lavender Bistro
December 24 and 25, 2025
Dine under sparkling patio lights with a special holiday prix-fixe menu and live music.
Christmas Dinner at Morgan’s in the Desert
December 24 and 25, 2025
Indulge in a holiday feast with classic favorites and special offerings from Morgan’s chefs.
La Quinta Cliffhouse
Dine al fresco on the cliffside patio any time of the year at La Quinta Cliffhouse and enjoy classic American dishes and seasonal cocktails.
LG’s Prime Steakhouse
LG’s Prime Steakhouse serves USDA Prime steaks, which are hand-trimmed at the restaurant to bring customers the highest quality, freshest steak possible.
Whether you’re browsing handmade gifts, enjoying a gourmet holiday dinner or spending quality time with friends and family, La Quinta is full of warmth and fun this holiday season.
Stay up to date on local happenings at PlayInLaQuinta.com.
