Palm Springs is one of the most picturesque cities in the U.S., a desert oasis nestled in the incredible Coachella Valley. Known for its rich history and world-class architecture, the city is home to stunning residences designed by some of the nation’s most renowned architects. Many created custom mid-century modern homes for famous celebrities. Every year, Palm Springs hosts two major events to spotlight its iconic architecture and history, and the fall edition of Modernism Week is just around the corner.
Palm Springs experienced a major surge in the 20th century as its warm climate and palm tree-lined streets began attracting the jet set crowd. Hollywood superstars such as Elvis Presley, Frank Sinatra, and Marilyn Monroe settled in this community, igniting its architectural boom. The mid-century modern style that flourished there—known as “desert modernism”—has been impeccably preserved and remains one of the city’s top attractions. This architectural legacy is a major contributor to the creation of Modernism Week.
Modernism Week is a large-scale showcase designed to celebrate and promote appreciation for the mid-century modern architecture that defines Palm Springs. It features two primary events: the larger one in February, when more than 100,000 visitors descend on Palm Springs for tours and events centered around the city’s architecture, and a smaller, more intimate version in October. The fall edition provides an ideal opportunity to experience Palm Springs at a leisurely pace.
This year, Fall Modernism Week will run from October 24th to 27th. It is a “mini Modernism Week” that will feature tours of iconic homes and neighborhoods, presentations, and a range of exciting events, from cocktail parties to panel discussions. The event will take place across various locations in the city. Visitors will be able to explore some of the most iconic Palm Springs neighborhoods alongside expert guides, creating both an engaging and informative experience.
Fall Modernism Week isn’t just one event—it’s a collection of engaging experiences that cater to a wide range of interests. Many of the events are tour-centric, offering bus and walking tours. This year’s highlights include a tour of Frank Sinatra’s “Twin Palms” estate, a walk-through of the Old Las Palmas neighborhood—once a major celebrity hotspot—and the week’s Featured Home Tour of The Shag House.
In addition to the many tours, there are several other ways to enjoy the festival. The Midcentury Mixology Cocktail Class offers a hands-on experience, where a mixologist teaches participants how to craft iconic mid-century-era cocktails. There will also be cocktail parties, book signings, presentations on the history of local home styles, martini parties at landmark locations, and much more.
Tickets for Fall Modernism Week are available online now. While some events are free, tickets for individual events can also be purchased separately. Many events sell out quickly, so be sure to secure your spot for the most popular tours and experiences.
