CONTENTS
MONTHLY
Deb Geissler Publisher
Kimberly Brucks Advertising Manager kbrucks@desertentertainer.com
Jose De La Cruz Senior Graphic Designer ads@desertentertainer.com
News news@desertentertainer.com Advertising
P.8 FOODIES COME HITHER
kbrucks@desertentertainer.com
Alison Elsner
Entertainment and events sometimes change after press deadline. Please check with venues to confirm the date and times.
THINGS TO DO Calendar of events and performances.
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NIGHTLIFE Browse listings of the area’s most vibrant hotspots and make your evenings memorable.
FEELING LUCKY? Treat yourself to some gaming entertainment
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SHOPPING The ultimate list of stellar shops around the valley.
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CLUB SCENE Dance the night away with your guide to the nightclub scene in the desert. Photo courtesy of acharliebrownchristmaslive.com
news@desertentertainer.com
IT’S FIVE O’CLOCK SOMEWHERE A full listing of outstanding happy hours.
FOODIES COME HITHER Delve into our roundup of some of the valley’s best dining venues.
Photo courtesy of The Living Desert
or story ideas should be sent to
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News, photos, editorial submissions
ATTRACTIONS There’s no shortage of things to do. Check out this list of local attractions.
FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS PARADE Featuring signature floats, giant balloons and the warmth of the season.
to Ahkto Distribution at 760-459-4204
760-820-2610 or 760-365-3315
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DISTRIBUTION
or distribution@ahkto.com
CURTAIN TIME Discover where the curtains will rise this month.
WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED “Waitress,” “Colors of Christmas,” Desert Art Festival and Voctave highlight this fun-packed December.
Gary Walker
All delivery inquiries should be directed
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CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Photo courtesy of Lavender Bistro
desertentertainer.com
“A Charlie Brown Christmas Live on Stage.”
WildLights
Titles registered and all contents copyrighted
P.17 THINGS TO DO
P.36 CURTAIN TIME
2019 by the Hi-Desert Publishing Co. All rights reserved.
DECEMBER 2019
Cover Photos: “Waitress” photo courtesy of McCallum Theatre. Colors of Christmas photo courtesy of McCallum Theatre. Vase by Richard Hunter photo courtesy of West Coast Artists. Voctave photo courtesy of McCallum Theatre.
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COVER FEATURE
Photos courtesy of McCallum Theatre
‘Waitress’
A delicious story of redefining one’s life By Alison Elsner
“Waitress” 2 , 7:30 and 8 p.m. Friday-Sunday December 6-8 Tickets $135, $95 and $65 McCallum Theatre 73000 Fred Waring Drive Palm Desert 760-340-ARTS (2787) mccallumtheatre.com waitressthemusical.com
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nspired by the beloved film, “Waitress,” the musical tells the story of Jenna, a waitress and expert pie-maker who dreams of a way out of her small town and rocky marriage. Pouring her heart into her pies, she crafts desserts that mirror her topsy-turvy life such as “The Key (Lime) to Happiness Pie” and “Betrayed By My Eggs Pie.” When a baking contest in a nearby county — and a satisfying encounter with someone new — show Jenna a chance at a fresh start, she must find the courage to seize it. Change is on the menu, as long as Jenna can write her own perfectly personal recipe for happiness. Much more than a fluffy confection of a production, there is depth and pathos to the story that com-
bine to serve as a metaphor for anyone looking to take responsibility in their life and summon the strength to make real change. Written by Adrienne Shelly in 2007, the film “Waitress” was inspired by Shelly’s daughter who prompted musings about how motherhood would change her life and impact her career. Once her baby was born, Shelly’s new perspective made her realize that she could have it all. Shelly’s story became Jenna’s story. The musical was brought to life by a groundbreaking, all-female creative team, featuring original music and lyrics by seven-time Grammy nominee Sara Bareilles (“Love Song” and “Brave”), a book by acclaimed
screenwriter Jessie Nelson (“I Am Sam”) and direction by Tony Award winner Diane Paulus (“Pippin” and “Finding Neverland”). Some of Bareilles’ songs in the show include “What Baking Can Do,” “When He Sees Me,” “It Only Takes a Taste” and “You Will Still Be Mine,” among many others. Fans were happy to see Bareilles’ fifth studio album released in 2015, titled, “What’s Inside: Songs from Waitress,” featuring tunes from the musical. This Tony-award nominated hit is bubbling over with passion and humor, and it communicates an uplifting message of empowerment. Audiences are sure to enjoy this sweet slice of heaven and hopefulness.
DECEMBER 2019
COVER ‘Colors of Christmas’ is an evening of holiday magic and non-stop hit songs By Alison Elsner “Colors of Christmas” 8 p.m. Friday, December 13 Tickets $120, $90 and $65 McCallum Theatre 73000 Fred Waring Drive Palm Desert 760-340-ARTS (2787) mccallumtheatre.com thecolorsofchristmas.com
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his magnificent and spirited show has become a tradition, starring Peabo Bryson, and this year – its 27th – it features Oleta Adams, Ben Vereen and Jody Watley. This powerful line up of stars makes for a dazzling evening of holiday classics, backed up by a hot 12-piece band. It’s a showcase of vocal prowess and supreme stage presence that conjures up images of trimming the tree, singing Christmas carols and exchanging gifts with loved ones. Two-time Grammy Award winning Bryson is a staple on the R&B and soul charts, a singer-songwriter who is best known for performing love ballads, often as a duo with
female singers like Roberta Flack and Celine Dion. He has contributed to two Disney animated feature soundtracks. Audiences can look forward to favorites like, “O Holy Night,” “What Child Is This,” “The Christmas Song,” “I’ll Be Home For Christmas,” “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas” and so many more. This production is a contemporary alternative to the standard holiday attraction. With a horn-a-plenty full of warmth and energy, it’s an evening of Christmas magic and non-stop hit songs that you’ll want to make a yearly habit. Peabo Bryson.
Photo courtesy of McCallum Theatre
Desert Art Festival is your one stop holiday and culture shop By Alison Elsner Desert Art Festival 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday December 14 and 15 Free parking and admission Frances Stevens Park 538 N. Palm Canyon Dr. Palm Springs 818-813-4478 westcoastartists.com
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his charming outdoor festival, set against the scenic palm trees and San Jacinto mountains of the Coachella Valley, brings together artists and attendees who look forward to just strolling the artists’ booths or doing some serious collecting. The event showcases 100 artists presenting original work, including paintings in acrylic, oils and watercolors, photography, etchings, sculpture in clay, glass, metal, stone and wood, fine crafts, blown glass, turned wood, semi-precious jewelry, pottery, stained glass and high-quality crafts. Contemporary artisans present unique styles of individually
handcrafted functional and decorative pottery, raku, vessels and gourd art. Guests are invited to visit all of the stations to view the works while interacting directly with the artists. Many pieces are one of a kind, and all works are available for purchase. Presented by West Coast Artists, this cultural display comes along just in time for holiday shopping. Collectors can browse or buy, and creations cover every taste and price point. The experience is all the more appealing knowing that before or after, there are plenty of nearby restaurants, lounges and coffee cafés in the Palm Springs’ Uptown Design District.
Vase by Richard Hunter. Photo courtesy of West Coast Artists
Voctave’s artistry blends tight harmonies and commanding chord progressions By Alison Elsner Voctave: The Spirit of the Season 7 p.m. Monday, December 16 Tickets $68, $48 and $28 McCallum Theatre 73000 Fred Waring Drive Palm Desert 760-340-ARTS (2787) mccallumtheatre.com voctave.com
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octave is a name you’ll want to remember. More accurately, you will have trouble forgetting them. This 11-member a cappella group is a showcase of the power of the human voice without musical accompaniment. Created by group member James Ray, they perform and arrange covers of many classic and modern Disney songs. This ensemble brings their artistic arrangements to life and represents a wealth of diverse backgrounds and musical experiences. Group members have professional roots with Walt Disney World entertainment, but their range does not stop there. From gospel music to musical
theater, contemporary Christian to barbershop and pop music to choral specialists, Voctave voices have covered it all. Formed in 2015 in Orlando, Florida, the six men and five women have received more than 100 million views of their videos on Facebook and YouTube. The group has ranked in the top 25 on “Billboard Magazine’s” charts and has had multiple number-one songs and five albums on iTunes, Amazon and Spotify. Audiences can likely look forward to hearing their most popular song, “Disney Love Melody,” along with songs to warm everyone’s spirits for the season.
Photos courtesy of McCallum Theatre
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HOLIDAY TRADITION
Festival of Lights Parade
Featuring signature floats, giant balloons and the warmth of the season By Alison Elsner
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here’s definitely no need for snow at this annual celebration of everything Christmas that invites friends and family to gather together as the activity moves through the middle of Palm Springs village and into the heart of the Uptown Design District. The route begins at Ramon Road, proceeds north on Palm Canyon Drive and ends at Tamarisk Road. Set for Saturday, December 7, and starting at 5:45 p.m., the 27th annual parade will showcase decorated vehicles from participants like Eisenhower Medical Center, the Palm Springs Animal Shelter and Jessup Auto Plaza, marching bands, giant Macy’s Parade-style balloons, holidaythemed, signature floats adorned in thousands of colorful lights, performing groups, the Budweiser Clydesdales, Mickey and Minnie Mouse, Snoopy and the gang and, of course, Santa and Mrs. Claus in their sleigh. Many of the Palm Springs neighborhood groups participate, each anchoring one of the festive balloons.
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Photo courtesy of Festival of Lights
Palm Springs City Officials will also make their way down the parade route, riding along in special designated vehicles, waving to the crowds lining the streets. This year’s Celebrity Grand Marshal is actress and singer Lorna Luft, and the community grand marshals are modernist architect Hugh Kaptur and NBC’s Gino Lamont. Guests will want to arrive early to stake out a spot, and spectators are encouraged to bring fold-
ing chairs and dress warmly. Surrounding streets will be closed off to cars starting in the afternoon. The parade will end around 8 p.m. and streets will reopen shortly after. The parade kicked off in the early 1990s and has been held every year since on the first Saturday in December, becoming a much-loved holiday tradition. The parade was the brainchild of former Mayor Will Kleindienst and a small group of community minded individuals who believed it important to offer the Coachella Valley an event that would allow residents and visitors an opportunity to celebrate the spirit and joy of the holiday season while at the same time creating a unique tourism event, which over the years has brought in an estimated 100,000 people annually to downtown. The 27th Annual Festival of Lights Parade is held on Saturday, December 7, from 5:45 to 8 p.m. Parade runs through Palm Canyon Drive from Ramon Road to Tamarisk Road in Palm Springs. For more information, visit psfestivaloflights.com.
DECEMBER 2019
DINING FEATURE
Photo courtesy of Lavender Bistro
Photo courtesy of Trio Restaurant
Photo courtesy of Fantasy Springs Resort Casino
Holiday and New Year’s Dining By Alison Elsner
Christmas Eve / Christmas Day AC3 Restaurant + Bar Voted “2019 Best of the Valley,” this light and bright foodie favorite just off El Paseo will feature regular menus and sumptuous specials on both days. Share (or not) starters like mushroom and burrata flat bread ($12) or crab cakes ($16). Mains include marinated pork schnitzel ($26), lobster, shrimp, chicken and chorizo paella ($30) or ribeye steak ($37), and it simply wouldn’t be Christmas without dessert of chocolate Nutella s’mores or banana bread pudding ($11 each). Open December 24 and December 25, lunch 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., dinner 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. 45350 Larkspur Lane, Palm Desert, 760340-6069, ac3palmdesert.com. The Bistro at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino The Bistro is the one-stop holiday (cuisine) shop for fresh seafood and specialty sushi ($12-$29). Diners can look forward to premium USDA steaks, chicken, lamb chops or the famous pork chop. Kobe beef meatloaf ($29) or miso-sake glazed Chilean seabass ($38) taste best with a hand-crafted cocktail like a Lemon Drop or Strawberry Blond ($15 each) or glass of fine wine. Guests can dine inside the dining room with a view of the open kitchen or outside on the terrace overlooking the towering
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palm trees. Open December 24 and 25, 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. 84245 Indio Springs Parkway, Indio, 760-238-5654, fantasyspringsresort.com. Le Vallauris Christmas dinner here will create memories for years to come. A special holiday menu will include appetizer choices like baked Boston scallop and prawn strudel, porcini tart with truffle oil, duo of blue and Dungeness crab and many others. Entrees will feature farm raised free range turkey, roasted rack of lamb, charred filet of beef with cognac sauce, Maine lobster raviolis and more. Desserts include opera bitter ganache, Bourbon pecan pie with Tahitian vanilla Chantilly and other unique recipes. $86 per person. Dinner served December 24 and 25, 3 p.m. on. 385 W. Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs, 760-325-5059, le vallauris.com. Mastro’s This classic, sophisticated yet high energy steakhouse sets the standard, and this holiday there will be two “can’t resist” offerings. Guests can start with Holiday Cheer, an addictive concoction of Tito’s vodka, Kerrygold Irish cream, Kahlua and Liquor 43, garnished with a cinnamon and sugar graham cracker rim ($22). The chateaubriand, a large center-cut roast of the finest tenderloin, is sliced and served tableside with bearnaise and
peppercorn sauces ($115). There is live entertainment nightly. Now this is living. Open December 24, 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. and December 25, 2 p.m. to 9 p.m. 73405 El Paseo, Palm Desert, 760-776-6777, mastrosrestaurants.com. Peak’s Restaurant at the Palm Springs Tram With breathtaking views of Chino Canyon and the towering Christmas Tree, this the ultimate holiday experience. Serving an entrée of maple glazed ham, appetizer choice of lentil soup or baby beet salad and dessert selection of apple pie or homemade bread pudding, all you have to do is get yourself to the top of the Tram. Adults $45, kids $23. Open December 25, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. 1 Tram Way, Palm Springs, 760-325-1449, pstramway.com. Pines Café Holiday Ride & Dine at the Palm Springs Tram Slightly more casual, this package includes Tram fare along with the same stunning views. The symphony of tastes begins with a mixed green salad, and entrée choices include honey glazed ham, roasted turkey breast or vegetarian lasagna. Sides include a choice of garlic mashed potatoes, herb carrots, homestyle stuffing or citrus ginger cranberry sauce. Bravissimo! Adults $36, kids $23.50. Open December 25, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. 1 Tram Way, Palm Springs, 760-325-1449, pstramway.com.
DECEMBER 2019
DINING Workshop Prepare for a farm-fresh feast, as dinner services on both Christmas Eve and Day will offer the nightly menu, in addition to a special for two featuring a prime-aged 18-ounce ribeye steak grilled over wood fire, lobster and truffle mac ‘n’ cheese and braised cippolini onion topped with bone marrow butter ($105 per person). Not in the mood for beef? Try the diver scallops ($38), mushroom risotto ($45) or wood fired pizzas (M.P.). And don’t forget to order a California Dreamin’ specialty cocktail ($15). Open December 24 and 25, 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. 800 N. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, 760-459-3451, workshoppalmsprings.com.
New Year’s Eve / New Year’s Day Cuistot Serving special New Year’s Eve menus only, this elegant French farmhouse will add a European flair to your celebration. Appetizers feature pithiviers of duck, lobster ravioli or salmon carpaccio, and entrée selections include items such as lamb loin Wellington, lobster pot pie, New York steak, or fresh gnocchi. Special treats will also be available to order, while supplies last, like Siberian Osetra caviar or pheasant breast. Open December 31, early seating 5 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. and late seating 7 p.m. to late, $135. 72595 El Paseo, Palm Desert, 760-340-1000, cuistotrestaurant.com. Eight4Nine Boogie into 2020 with Keisha D and the Hearts of Soul Band as you savor the four course New Year’s Eve dinner. While waiting for dinner, kick the night off with a Fraise Savage or Prickly Pear cocktail ($12 each). There’s an early and a late dinner seating, the latter which includes the above-mentioned entertainment. Plan to indulge in Misoyaki lamb meatballs or fig ricotta toast, oyster Rockefeller, prime ribeye steak or duck breast and for the finale a trio of house made desserts and champagne toast. Open December 31, 11 a.m. for lunch, early dinner seating 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., $95 and late seating 8 p.m. to 12 a.m., $120, and January 1, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. 849 N. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, 760-325-8490, eight4nine.com. Cork and Fork New Year’s Eve Wine Dinner The 7th annual NYE Wine Dinner starts with a sparkling toast and the chef’s surprise amuse bouche. Four courses feature gourmet presentations served on the patio (weather permitting), like lobster bisque and toasted brioche crouton with Kunin Chenin Blanc, black pepper crusted filet medallion with gorgonzola and wild mushroom mac & cheese accompanied by Irwin Family Vineyards “The Bull” red and rosemary Porchetta with smoked tomato butter and Orin Swift “Department 66” Grenache, all finished with Chef Ginny’s special dessert. Space is limited. $125 per person all inclusive. Dinner seating at 6 p.m. 47875 Caleo Bay, La Quinta, 760-7777555, corkandforkwinebar.com.
DECEMBER 2019
Photo courtesy of Vicky’s of Santa Fe
TRIO Let the bright orange and white décor be your beacon for this amazing New Year’s Eve celebration at TRIO, featuring a “trio” of threecourse dinner seatings at 5:30 p.m. ($59), 7:30 p.m. ($79) and 9:30 p.m. ($99). Special holiday menu items will include favorites like Australian sole, St. Louis style spare rib, wild mushroom linguine, bone-in 14-ounce USDA prime ribeye. And don’t forget the signature mac ‘n cheese, sour cream mashed potatoes and creamed spinach on the side ($8 each)! The late seating includes unlimited champagne, the famous balloon drop and party favors for everyone. 777 N. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, 760-864-8746, triopalmsprings.com.
holiday menu announced closer to New Year’s, but guests can always count on specials like Shrimp Scampi ($28), Beetroot Wellington ($32) or Steak Diane ($48). There will be two seatings for dinner, the latter which will include bottomless sparkling wine and all-night access to the rousing party in the lounge until 2 a.m. with live entertainment including lots of dancing. Open December 31, early seating 5 p.m. to 6 p.m., $105 and late seating 8 p.m. to 9 p.m., $195. (January 1 regular hours and menus). 200 West Ramon Road, Palm Springs, 760-325-2323, inglesideinn.com/melvyns-restaurant.
Lavender Bistro One of the Coachella Valley’s most popular patios features a special menu with starters like ahi tuna, roasted Anjou pear salad, grilled shrimp cocktail, wild mushroom soup and cream of roasted garlic soup. Depending on which seating you choose, entrées include maple leaf half roasted duck, black angus beef tenderloin or butternut squash raviolis, among others. Dessert is chef’s sampler, and the second seating includes a champagne toast. Plan on live music all evening! Open December 31, early seating at 6 p.m., $90 and late seating at 9 p.m., $110 per person. (January 1 regular hours and menus). 780073 Calle Barcelona, La Quinta, 760-564-5353, lavenderbistro.com.
Vicky’s of Santa Fe The great thing about New Year’s Eve here is that you can enjoy full holiday dinner, drinks and appetizers while groovin’ to the music…or both! The award-winning dinner menu will be served in the dining room, serving up steaks (like the 14-ounce New York, $36), fresh seafood, rack of lamb, rotisserie chicken and nightly specials like signature macadamia crusted Chilean seabass. The lounge will feature music all evening by The John Stanley King Show performing originals, rock, Sinatra and requests. Dining room open December 31, 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., reservations required. Music lounge open 6:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m., open seating, bar and snack menu only, $25 cover plus one drink minimum. 45100 Indian Wells Lane, Indian Wells, 760-345-9770, vickysofsantafe.com.
Melvyn’s This classic take on the Palm Springs lifestyle combines a Rat Pack vibe and exceptional menu creations. There will be a special
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Desert Dish Valley cuisine to relish
Eight4Nine’s sourdough-crusted Chilean seabass with a dungeness crab-stuffed pepper, saffron aioli and greens.
Cathedral City AJ’s on the Green & Splash Bar American: Lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch. Enjoy delicious omelets, soups, salads, burgers, sandwiches, pasta, fish, crispy pork belly sliders and dessert. Inside Date Palm Country Club, 36200 Date Palm Dr., Cathedral City. 760-202-1111, ajsonthegreen.com Bubba’s Bone & Brews BBQ: Lunch and dinner. An American BBQ gastropub, where locals go to enjoy food, craft beers, spirits, wine and happy hour in a lively atmosphere. 68525 Ramon Road, Cathedral City. 760-699-7231, bubbasbonesandbrews.com La Tablita Restaurant Mexican: Lunch and dinner. Featuring traditional dishes from the Los Altos region, like slow-cooked shredded lamb and traditional enchiladas suizas. 68369 East Palm Canyon Drive, Cathedral City. 760-321-5935, latablita.menutoeat.com Otori Japanese Cuisine Japanese: Dinner. The restaurant serves fresh sushi and sashimi daily with a focus on freshness, taste and quality. 68100 Ramon Road, Suite A1, Cathedral City. 760-699-5486, actnm3.wixsite.com/otori
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Photo courtesy of Eight4Nine Restaurant & Lounge
Pizzeria Bambinos Italian: Lunch and dinner. The menu features hot wings, fried raviolis, salads, pasta, sandwiches, calzones to classic pies and more. 69040 E. Palm Canyon Dr., Cathedral City. 760-770-0505, pizzeriabambinos.com
Mario’s Italian Cafe Italian: Lunch and dinner A full-value Italian restaurant featuring pasta, pizza, subs, seafood, poultry, veal and specials. 83103 Avenue 48, Coachella. 760-863-1611, mariositaliancafes.com
Tortillas Restaurant Mexican: Breakfast, lunch and dinner. Serving old-style Mexican cuisines such as carne asada, flautas, enchiladas and fajitas. 32123 Cathedral Canyon Drive, Cathedral City. 760-324-8070, tortillasrestaurant.us
Desert Hot Springs
Coachella El Tranvia Restaurant Mexican: Breakfast, lunch and dinner. Serving traditional Mexican dishes including carne asada, homemade tortillas, chile relleno. 1221 6th Street, Coachella. 760-391-9772 JC’s Burger and Grill American: Breakfast, lunch and dinner. Traditional diner features breakfast burritos and sandwiches, burgers, dinner combos, salads and sandwiches. 49405 Grapefruit Blvd, Coachella. 760-391-9800 La Noria Mexican: Breakfast, lunch and dinner. Enjoy authentic Mexican home cooking, featuring chilaquiles, gorditas, chile rellenos, tacos, sopes and more. 49613 Harrison Street, Coachella. 760-398-8131
South of the Border Mexican: Lunch and dinner. Offering traditional Mexican fare such as tacos and burritos, to tender and flavorful carnitas and camarones al mojo de ajo. 11719 Palm Drive, Desert Hot Springs. 760-251-4000. Las Palmas Mexican Cuisine Mexican: Breakfast, lunch and dinner. Offering traditional Mexican cuisine such as huevos rancheros, mariscos, tacos, burritos, fajitas, chile rellenos, enchiladas, and a full bar. 11349 Palm Drive, Desert Hot Springs. 760-329-2048, laspalmasmexicancuisine.com Thai Palm Restaurant Thai: Lunch and dinner. An exotic taste of authentic Thai food, offering seafood, lamb and Sia noodles with a harmonious blend of spicy, subtle flavors both sweet and sour. 12070 Palm Drive, Desert Hot Springs. 760-288-3934, thaipalmdhs.com
DECEMBER 2019
DINING
Indian Wells Citrus and Palms at Miramonte Resort & Spa American: Breakfast, lunch and dinner. Featuring fresh local cuisine that is both healthy and delicious. From items like pumpkin seed French toast to stir-fried snap peas to bluefin poké, the menu is sure to impress. 45000 Indian Wells Lane, Indian Wells. 760-341-7200, miramonteresort.com Don Diego’s of Indian Wells Mexican: Lunch and dinner. Serving authentic Mexican cuisine featuring Tia Maria chile relleno, green corn tamales, or sizzling fajitas. 74969 HIghway 111, Indian Wells. 760-340-5588, dondiegoiw.com Eureka! American: Dinner. Gourmet burgers, sandwiches, fresh salads, locally sourced produce and ultra-premium craft beer and whiskey. 74985 Highway 111, Indian Wells. 760-834-7700, eurekarestaurantgroup.com The Pink Cabana at Sands Hotel & Spa Mediterranean: Lunch and dinner. The ingredient-driven restaurant features Mediterranean cuisine with a Moroccan influence. The menu features filet mignon, harissa chicken, prime ribeye, appetizers, shareable bites and more. 44985 Province Way, Indian Wells. 760-321-3771, sandshotelandspa.com
Indio The Cafe at Shields American: Breakfast and lunch. Guests can expect to find a variety of delicious items including signature dishes featuring dates, salads topped with homemade dressings, sandwiches served on homemade bread, authentic Mexican cuisine. 80225 Highway 111, Indio. 760-775-0902, shieldsdategarden.com China Bistro Chinese: Lunch and dinner. Offering authentic gourmet Chinese cuisine. The menu features wonton soup, crab rangoon, sesame chicken, Szechwan garlic chicken, bbq pork, beef and broccoli, crispy orange beef, noodles and vegetarian dishes. 45765 Towne Street, Indio. 760-342-7288, chinabistroindio.com Ciro’s Ristorante and Pizzeria Italian: Lunch and dinner. Ciro’s pizza dough is prepared fresh daily from scratch and hand tossed. The menu also features sandwiches, lunch specials, subs, salads, pastas, children’s plates. 81963 Highway 111, Indio. 760-347-6503, cirosofindio.com El Mexicali Cafe II Mexican: Breakfast, lunch and dinner. The menu offers a variey of traditional dishes featuring chile verde, tacos, enchiladas, sopes, carne asada, flautas, chile relleno and more. 43430 Monroe Street, Indio. 760-342-2333, elmexicalicafe2.com June Hill’s Table American: Lunch and dinner. Featuring local and regional house crafted selections, showcasing fresh made Californian fare that is healthy and flavorful. 51750 Polo Club Drive, Indio. 760-797-7229, mytrilogylife.com Rincon Norteño Café Mexican: Breakfast, lunch and dinner. Delicious, authentic north Mexican cuisine featuring a full bar, menudo, machaca, chilaquiles, carne asada, combination plates, tamales and seafood. 83011 Indio Blvd., Indio. 760-347-4754, rinconnorteno.com
DECEMBER 2019
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DINING
Al dente features an extensive menu of pastas with homemade sauces. Photo courtesy of Al dente Trattoria Toscana & Bar
La Quinta Fortun’s Kitchen + Bar American: Dinner. The eatery boasts a diverse, mouth-watering menu of classic allAmerican family favorites with a distinct gourmet edge. Every item on our menu is made with fresh ingredients and hand built to order. 78085 Avenida La Fonda, La Quinta. 760-564-8744, fortunskitchen.com The Grill on Main American: Lunch, dinner . Chef Brett Maddock delivers an exciting new approach to American fare. Choose from a wide variety of appetizers, crisp salads, seafood, steak and pasta dishes along with specialty sandwiches and burgers and new daily brunch. Full bar includes microbrews and a great wine list. Indoor and patio dining. Closed Mondays. 78065 Main Street, Old Town La Quinta, 760-777-7773, thegrillonmainlq.com La Quinta Baking Company French: Breakfast, lunch and dinner. A European-inspired bistro serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as fresh baked breads and pastries daily. 78395 Highway 111, La Quinta. 760-777-1699, laquintabaking.com Landmark American: Lunch and dinner. Enjoy a full bar, indoor and al fresco dining, an outdoor grill and everything from salads and sliders to shareables and barbecue specialties. 78100 Main Street, Old Town La Quinta, 760-600-0758, landmarklq.com RD RNNR Libations, Pints & Plates Craft American: lunch, dinner. Yes---it’s pronounced Roadrunner and it’s the newest place to dine at Old Town. Offering craft American fare made with fresh ingredients, great value, creative cocktails and a well-balanced selection of rotating taps in an invigorating, casual dining atmosphere. 78075 Main Street, Old Town La Quinta, 442-400-3255, www.roadrunnerlq.com Solano’s – A West Coast Bistro American: Dinner. Chef Paco’s dishes highlight the bright, bold flavors of Baja and the Pacific coast. This charming, neighborhood gem is known for excellent fish entrees, steak, fresh California cuisine and great patio dining. Home of the “Velvet Lounge” for drinks and happy hour. 78075 Main Street, Old Town La Quinta, 760-771-6655, solanosbistro.com Stuft Pizza Bar & Grill Italian, Pizza, American and Vegetarian: Lunch and dinner. Popular hotspot with uber-loyal, local following. Award-winning fresh pizza and menu featuring 100 items including prime steaks, seafood and great salads. Super-generous portions and friendly, energetic atmosphere. Great bar, wine-list and indoor and outdoor dining. 78015 Main Street, Old Town La Quinta, 760-777-9989, stuftpizzabarandgrill.com
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DECEMBER 2019
DINING
Palm Desert AC3 Restaurant + Bar American: Breakfast, lunch and dinner. The menu reflects the chef’s passion for new American cuisine with unique global twists on classic dishes. 45350 Larkspur Lane, Palm Desert. 760-340-6069, ac3palmdesert.com Athena Gyro Mediterranean: Lunch and dinner. Featuring authentic cuisine with traditional spices and flavors that make each dish an opportunity to experience classics and delicacies in new exciting ways. 73121 Country Club Dr., Palm Desert. 760-774-8387, athena-gyro.com City Wok Chinese: Lunch and dinner. A contemporary yet casual restaurant offering authentic, upscale Asian cuisine using only the freshest meats, seafood and produce available. 74970 Country Club Drive, Palm Desert. 760-341-1511, citywok.com Evzin Mediterranean Cuisine Mediterranean: Lunch and dinner. A bright, contemporary-style bistro featuring Mediterranean standards such as shawarma and falafel. 72695 Highway 111, Palm Desert. 760-340-2020, evzincuisine.com French Corner Café French: Breakfast, lunch and dinner. An authentic French bakery with unique pastries that also offers breakfast, lunch and dinner. 72423 Highway 111, Palm Desert. 760-568-5362, frenchcornercafe.com Fresh Agave Mexican Bar & Grill Mexican: Lunch and dinner. Serving a variety of chicken, beef, pork and seafood dishes including fajitas, chiles rellenos and enchiladas. 73325 Highway 111, Palm Desert. 760-836-9028, freshagavemexicanbarandgrill.com Guillermo’s Restaurante Mexican: Lunch and dinner. The restaurant serves the highest quality, fresh Mexican dishes in a warm, friendly environment. 72850 El Paseo, Palm Desert. 760-341-0980, guillermosrestaurante.com Grill-A-Burger American: Lunch and dinner. Casual spot specializing in gourmet burgers, sliders, hot dogs and salads. 73091 Country Club, Palm Desert. 760-346-8170, grill-a-burger.com Pacifica Seafood Restaurant Seafood: Dinner. The innovative menu features a variety of fresh seafood and flavorful steak dishes complemented by their international vodka menu and wine list. 73505 El Paseo, Palm Desert. 760-674-8666, pacificaseafoodrestaurant.com Paradise Cove Cafe American: Breakfast and lunch. Enjoy pancakes, oversized omelets, burgers and more at this familyowned cafe with patio seating. 44150 Town Center Way, Palm Desert. 760-779-1617, paradisecove.cafe Sullivan’s Steakhouse American: Dinner Serving mouth watering hand cut steaks and succulent fresh seafood broiled to perfection. 73505 El Paseo, Palm Desert. 760-341-3560, sullivanssteakhouse.com
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DINING
Joyce’s Sushi’s calamari tempura roll.
Photo courtesy of Joyce’s Sushi
Palm Springs Al dente Trattoria Toscana Italian: Lunch and dinner. A quaint cucina with a decidedly European atmosphere, an extensive menu of beef, veal, pasta and fresh seafood entrées. 491 North Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs. 760-325-1160, aldentepalmsprings.com Bill’s Pizza Italian: Lunch and dinner. Try one of 22 creations: Carol’s white pizza, pesto, bbq chicken, blue moon or choose your own ingredient combinations. 119 South Indian Canyon Dr., Palm Springs. 760-325-5571, billspizzapalmsprings.com Farm American/French: Breakfast and lunch. Dinner - Friday and Saturday. The menu includes crepes, omelets, sandwiches, salads and more. 6 La Plaza, Palm Springs. 760-322-2724, farmpalmsprings.com Eight4Nine Restaurant and Lounge American: Breakfast, lunch and dinner. The menu focuses on both presentation and flavor, incorporating diverse culinary influences while utilizing the freshest specialty produce, seafood and meat available. All dishes are prepared from scratch with creative flair. 849 North Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs. 760-325-8490, eight4nine.com King’s Highway American: Breakfast, lunch and dinner. The menu features steak and eggs, pannequet, tacos, burgers, sandwiches and salads. 701 East Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs. 760-969-5777, kingshighwaydiner.com La Perlita Mexican: Lunch and dinner. Indulge in some of our popular dishes, such as the chile rellenos or the Perlita shrimp, and of course, anything else on the menu will not disappoint you. 901 Crossley Road, Palm Springs. 760-778-8014, laperlitamexicanfood.letseat.at Miro’s Restaurant European: Dinner. The menu features homestyle soups, pastries and carefully selected recipes from the Mediterranean and Central Europe. 1555 South Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs. 760-323-5199, mirospalmsprings.com
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DECEMBER 2019
DINING
Palm Springs Nature’s Health Food and Cafe American: Breakfast and lunch. A vegan/vegetarian cafe that uses organic produce and products with over 100 items on the menu. 555 S. Sunrise Way, Palm Springs. 760-323-9487, natureshealthfoodcafe.com Oscar’s Cafe & Bar American: Dinner, weekend brunch/lunch. The chef is focused on creating a menu that offers tremendous variety, options for almost every taste and diet, as well as a few specialties. 125 East Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs. 760-325-1188, oscarspalmsprings.com Peaks Restaurant American: Lunch & dinner at the top of the Tram. Chef-driven, seasonal menu features natural meats and local produce from the desert. 1 Tramway Rd., Palm Springs. 760-325-4537, pstramway.com/dining Riccio’s Steak and Seafood Italian /American: Dinner. It’s an ideal spot to sip a Bellini and savor the house lobster martini, a chilled appetizer made of Maine lobster and mango chunks, drizzled with mango rum, served up in a martini glass and then ponder the medley of choices on Riccio’s Mediterranean-focused menu. 495 N. Palm Canyon Dr., Palm Springs. 760-325-3111, ricciossteakandseafood.com Rick’s Restaurant & Bakery American: Breakfast and lunch. Serving traditional breakfast and lunch with healthy alternatives. Great food with a Cuban influence at reasonable prices will satisfy everyone’s taste. 1973 N. Palm Canyon Dr., Palm Springs. 760-416-0090, ricksrestaurant.biz Rick’s Desert Grill Cuban & American: Breakfast, lunch & dinner. Offering a huge selection of items for all appetites. Ample beer and wine. Great food with a Cuban influence. 1596 N. Palm Canyon Dr., Palm Springs. 760-325-2127, ricksdesertgrill.com Rooster and the Pig Vietnamese: Dinner. Stylish, industrial-chic eatery serving Vietnamese fare (check website for current menu), plus craft cocktails. 356 South Indian Canyon Drive, Palm Springs. 760-832-6691, roosterandthepig.com Ruben and Ozzy’s Oyster Bar & Grill Seafood: Lunch and dinner. Relaxed, open-view kitchen with an eclectic menu of seafood bites, plus outdoor seating. 241 East Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs. 760-325-8800, rubenandozzysoysterbar.com Spencer’s Restaurant American: Breakfast, lunch and dinner. The restaurant serves upscale fare, like potato pancakes, slow baked meatloaf, crisp skin whitefish. 1701 West Baristo Road, Palm Springs. 760327-3446, spencersrestaurant.com Trio Restaurant American: Breakfast, lunch and dinner. An energetic, desert-casual atmosphere with great American modern food at reasonable prices. 707 N. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs. 760864-8746, triopalmsprings.com Woody’s Palm House American: Lunch and dinner. Gourmet burgers, fries, shakes and more. Head to the back room for dining/ lounge and live entertainment. 450 South Palm Canyon Dr., Palm Springs. 760-230-0188, woodyspalmhouse.com
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DINING
Rancho Mirage Acqua California Bistro American: Breakfast, lunch and dinner. The casual bistro offers varied Californian cuisine, plus an all-day happy hour. The River, 71800 Highway 111, Rancho Mirage. 760-8629800, acquaranchomirage.com Babe’s Bar-B-Que and Brewhouse American: Lunch and dinner. Babe’s menu highlights include amazing mouth-watering steaks, hickory bbq and sandwiches that rival the best gastropubs and a full bar. The River, 71800 Highway 111, Rancho Mirage. 760-346-8738, babesbbqandbrewhouse.com
Fleming’s Prime Steak House American: Dinner. The nationally acclaimed restaurant offers the best in steakhouse dining – prime meats and chops, fresh fish and poultry, generous salads and side orders—with a unique wine list. The River, 71800 Highway 111, Rancho Mirage. 760-776-6685, flemingssteakhouse.com Joyce’s Sushi Japanese: Lunch and dinner. Freshly prepared specialty rolls, soups and udon noodles. 36101 Bob Hope Drive, Rancho Mirage. 760-202-8186, joycessushiranchomirage.com
Catalan Mediterranean Restaurant Mediterranean: Dinner. Paella and tapas are served at this lively farmto-table spot with a European-style decor and courtyard. 70026 Highway 111, Rancho Mirage. 760-770-9508, catalanrestaurant.com
Kobe Japanese Steak House Japanese: Dinner. Tables are set around chefs who create fun dishes like a beating rice heart or volcano onion. Excellent sushi is also available at the sushi bar or as an appetizer with your teppan meal. 69838 Highway 111 Rancho Mirage. 760-324-1717, koberanchomirage.com
The Edge Steakhouse American: Dinner. The menu presents the most remarkable prime steak, seafood and wine, highlighted by spectacular views from its dramatic cliff-side setting. The Ritz-Carlton, 68900 Frank Sinatra Dr., Rancho Mirage. 760-321-8282, ritzcarlton.com.
Lord Fletcher’s Restaurant European: Dinner. A unique restaurant with the atmosphere of an authentic English pub and restaurant. Popular items include prime rib, chicken and dumplings. 70385 Highway 111, Rancho Mirage. 760-328-1161, lordfletcher.com
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Roy’s Restaurant Asian Fusion: Lunch and dinner. The menu features sushi, Moroccan spice grilled swordfish, braised short ribs, Asian stuffed chicken breast and more. 71959 Highway 111, Rancho Mirage. 760-340-9044, roysrestaurant.com Shame on the Moon American: Dinner. The menu is eclectic with freshly prepared dishes that including pastas, steaks, fish, veal, duck and more. 69950 Frank Sinatra Drive, Rancho Mirage. 760-324-5515, shameonthemoon.com Talay Thai Restaurant American: Lunch and dinner. The restaurant offers a true Bangkok eating experience with an extensive menu of authentic Thai delights and savory favorites. 70065 Highway 111, Rancho Mirage. 760-832-9588, talaythairanchomirage.com Wally’s Desert Turtle American: Dinner. Executive Chef Pascal Lallemand brings his culinary experiences to the desert offering a refreshed and re-imagined take on modern California cuisine. 71775 Highway 111, Rancho Mirage. 760-568-9321, wallysdesertturtle.com Sign up for the Desert Entertainer email newsletter at desertentertainer.com, to receive the latest in dining, attractions, events, nightlife and more!
DECEMBER 2019
Calendar of events and performances
Photo by Paul Hayashi, courtesy of Palm Canyon Theatre
‘The King and I’
A poignant story of reluctant love and mutual respect By Alison Elsner
“The King and I” 2, 7 and 8 p.m. November 29 through December 22 Tickets: $32-$36 Palm Canyon Theatre 538 N Palm Canyon Dr. Palm Springs 760-323-5123 palmcanyontheatre.org
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ast versus West makes for a dramatic, richly textured and ultimately uplifting tale of enormous fascination in this classic work that first made its way to the Broadway stage nearly 70 years ago. It is 1862 in Siam when an English widow, Anna Leonowens, and her young son arrive at the Royal Palace in Bangkok, Thailand, having been summoned by the King to serve as tutor to his many children and wives. With both keeping a firm grip on their respective traditions and values, Anna and the King grow to understand and, eventually, respect one another, in a truly unique love saga. The relationship between the King and Anna is marked by conflict through much of the story,
as well as by a love to which neither can admit. The musical premiered on March 29, 1951, at Broadway’s St. James Theatre. It ran for nearly three years, making it the fourth longest-running Broadway musical in history at the time and has had many tours and revivals. “The King and I” is the fifth musical by the team of composer Richard Rodgers and dramatist Oscar Hammerstein, II. It is based on Margaret Landon’s novel, “Anna and the King of Siam” (1944), which is in turn derived from the memoirs of Leonowens, governess to the children of King Mongkut of Siam in the early 1860s. There was also a 1946 film version of the classic yarn, starring Rex Harrison.
Today, one of the most lasting legacies of the famous fable is the image of smooth-headed, RussianAmerican actor and television director Yul Brynner, the original star of the stage musical. The musical was an immediate hit when it first emerged on Broadway, winning Tony Awards for Best Musical, Best Actress and Best Featured Actor (for Brynner). A hit London run and U.S. national tour followed, together with a 1956 film for which Brynner won an Academy Award. In later revivals, Brynner came to dominate his role and the musical, starring in a four-year national tour culminating in a 1985 Broadway run shortly before his death.
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Calendar of events and performances The enduring tale of ‘Mary Poppins’ reminds us to believe in magic By Alison Elsner “Mary Poppins” by Desert Theatre Works 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. December 6-22 Tickets $32, $30 and $25 Indio Performing Arts Center 45175 Fargo Street Indio 760-980-1455 dtworks.org
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et ready for Mary Poppins to fly over the rooftops of London and onto the stage for this classic performance, based on the first novel in a series of children’s books written by P.L. Travers, published in 1934. The title character is a sensible English nanny with magical powers, who becomes a replacement nanny to the three Banks children. She is vain and often irritable, but within her stern exterior lurk all kinds of delightful wonder. She can slide up banisters, float in the air, step into pictures, stick stars on the sky and talk to animals. Mary
takes the Banks children on a series of wondrous adventures, such as using a magical compass to travel around the world. The story is well remembered from the 1964 Walt Disney movie, starring Julie Andrews and Dick Van Dyke. The film received a total of 13 Academy Awards nominations, including Best Picture. The tale endures today and will have you singing “Chim-ChimCher-ee” all the way home. The moral of the story: if we believe in magic, we will discover a world where anything can happen if we let it!
Art courtesy of Disney
2019 Indio International Tamale Festival spices up your tastebuds and your social life By Alison Elsner
Indio International Tamale Festival Saturday and Sunday December 7 and 8 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Carnival rides continue to midnight) Free admission Parking at Larson Justice Center (free shuttles to Festival) Old Town Indio 46200 Oasis Street, Indio 760-262-4633 tamalefestival.net
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oted a “Top Ten Food Festival” by the Food Network, attendees can expect two full days of muy delicioso with dozens of aromatic tamale stands featuring the best recipes, including inspired ingredients like chocolate-bananapeanut butter, pulled pork and salsa, smoked brisket, chipotle sweet potato and many other scrumptious selections. Tamales are voted upon by a panel of judges, and the winners of the best recipes will be announced on the final day. There’s plenty of other excitement throughout the weekend, including arts and crafts booths, shopping, Folklorico and line dancing, tamale-
eating contests flavored by Tabasco Pepper Sauce, wine and beer gardens, bicycle safety demos by IEHP, cheer groups, Kiddie Land and five spectacular live entertainment stages with bands like Inesperado and Country Nation, Gilbert the Juggler, singing, magic and audience performances. Carnival rides take place into the evening, along with Game Alley, starting the Friday night before the Festival. The entire event kicks off with a parade and a classic car show on Saturday morning. This is the chance to meet Mr. Tamale, greet Santa and Mrs. Claus and try one of Grandma Lupe’s Authentic Tamales.
Christmas comes early with Santa Fly In and Winter Fun Land By Alison Elsner
Santa Fly In and Winter Fun Land 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. December 14 and 15 Free for kids 12 and under with regular adult admission ($16-$18) Palm Springs Air Museum 745 N. Gene Autry Trail Palm Springs 760-778-6262 psam.org
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his year’s excitement will span two days, highlighted by Santa arriving at the Air Museum each morning at 11 a.m. But don’t expect to see his usual sleigh, because he will arrive in style in a vintage aircraftlike like a C-47 to greet all the young kids and slightly older kids-at-heart. In addition to sitting for photographs and having a special gift for each child, Santa will open his winter fun land complete with snow directly from the North Pole. Kids 12 and under get in free with a paying adult. While the kids are enjoying the
Christmas festivities, family members can always explore the collections of flyable WWII aircraft as well as aircraft from Korea and Vietnam. Visitors can also investigate the numerous displays of aircraft and equipment in the hangars, like the Grumman F7F Tigercat, the Curtiss P40 Warhawk or the MikoyanGurevich MiG-21. Guests can also grab a bite at the Freedom Fighters’ Café. Before leaving, the entire family should stop in to the gift shop, which features an array of fascinating items related to World War II, the military and aviation.
Photo courtesy of Palm Springs Air Museum
DECEMBER 2019
Calendar of events and performances
See over a million twinkling lights at the Wildlights, selected nights starting December 6.
December 1 The Beach Boys 3 and 7 p.m. This band has birthed a torrent of hit singles and sold albums by the tens of millions. But its greater significance lies in the fact that The Beach Boys’ songs have forever changed the musical landscape, profoundly influencing countless performing artists to follow. McCallum Theatre, 73000 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert. 760-340-2787, mccallumtheatre.com Mojave Flea at 10 a.m. A nomadic market of makers and merchans from Joshua Tree to the Coachella Valley and beyond. Featuring handcrafted food, drink, jewelry, apparel, accessories, apothecary, housewares, furnishings, curated vintage and more. Tumbleweed Sanctuary Garden and Labyrinth, 57889 Pueblo Trail, Yucca Valley. phoeniciaflea.com Palm Springs Vintage Market at 8 a.m. Come experience a diverse gathering of merchants selling vintage, retro and mid-century modern merchandise. Palm Springs Cultural Center, 2300 East Baristo, Palm Springs. palmspringsvintagemarket.com
DECEMBER 2019
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway Tree Lighting at 5:30 p.m. Featuring Peabody and Emmy award-winning journalist Hank Plante and the Palm Springs High School Madrigals and String Quartet with special appearance by Santa. Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, 1 Tram Way, Palm Springs. 888-515-8726, pstramway.com
December 2 Rhythmic Circus at 7 p.m. The percussivedance phenomenon that electrifies audiences with its hard-hitting, rapid-fire tap, sidesplitting humor and finger-snapping tunes. McCallum Theatre, 73000 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert. 760-340-2787, mccallumtheatre.com
December 3 An Intimate Evening with Barbara Eden at 8 p.m. Meet television star from the famous sitcom “I Dream of Jeannie.” Oscar’s Downtown Palm Springs, 125 East Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs. 760-325-1188, oscarspalmsprings.com Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker at 7 p.m. Featuring over-the-top production and larger than life puppets, nest-
Photo courtesy of The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens
ing dolls and gloriously hand-crafted costumes bring the Christmas spirit to life. McCallum Theatre, 73000 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert. 760-340-2787, mccallumtheatre.com
December 5 2019 McCallum Theatre Annual Gala starring Seal at 8 p.m. Enjoy a performance by Grammy Award-winning artist Seal, with a 29-piece orchestra performing standards by George Gershwin, Cole Porter, Duke Ellington, Charlie Chaplin, and more. McCallum Theatre, 73000 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert. 760-340-2787, mccallumtheatre.com
December 6 Old Dominion at 8 p.m. Acclaimed CMA and two-time ACM Vocal Group of the Year country band brings their latest tour with opening act Ryan Hurd to the desert. Fantasy Springs Resort Casino, 84245 Indio Springs Parkway, Indio. 800-827-2946, fantasyspringsresort.com Tuba Christmas at 6 p.m. Free public concert of holiday favorites played on a variety of instruments of the tuba family. The River at Rancho Mirage, 71800 Highway 111, Rancho Mirage. tubachristmas.com
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Calendar of events and performances December 6-8 “Waitress” For more information, see page 4. McCallum Theatre, 73000 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert. 760-340-2787, mccallumtheatre.com
December 6-21 Snowfall at The Gardens Experience the sights of snowfall and the sounds of carolers. See website for selected nights and times. The Gardens on El Paseo, 73545 El Paseo, Palm Desert. 760-862-1990, thegardensonelpaseo.com
December 6-28 Wildlights at 6 p.m. Over a million twinkling lights dazzle as guests enjoy holiday festivities, food, arts and crafts, animal encounters, live entertainment, Santa Clause and more. Light up your holiday on selected nights. The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens, 47900 Portola Ave., Palm Desert. 760-346-5694, livingdesert.org
December 7 A Holiday Celebration at 10 a.m. Shop for unique gifts at the annual holiday craft faire featuring handmade items by local artisans.
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Win door prizes, kid games and activities. Community Center 57090 29 Palms Highway, Yucca Valley. 760-369-7211. The Charlie Daniels Band at 9 p.m. Country music icon, best known for “The Devil Went Down to Georgia,” celebrates his six decades in music with a tour stop in the desert. Morongo Casino Resort Spa, 49500 Seminole Dr., Cabazon. 800-252-4499, morongocasinoresort.com The Dan Band at 8 p.m. They are known for hilarious covers of pop songs predominately performed by females. Dan Finnerty adds his own spin on the songs with bonus obscenities and swearing. Spotlight 29 Casino, 46200 Harrison Place, Coachella. 760-775-5566, spotlight29.com Desert VegFest at 10 a.m. An all vegan festival featuring delicious food pop-ups and food trucks, vendors for holiday shopping, films, informative speakers, music and more. UCR Palm Desert, 75080 Frank Sinatra Drive, Palm Desert. desertvegfest.com Desert Mountain Art Faire at 9 a.m. Mediums may include photography, paintings, cceremics, hand painted silks and more. Santa Rosa & San Jacinto Mountains National Monument Visitor Center, 51500 Highway 74, Palm Desert. 760-862-9984, desertmountains.org
Jim Gaffigan brings his latest comedy tour, “Secrets and Pies,” to The Show. Photo courtesy of Agua Caliente Casino Rancho Mirage
DECEMBER 2019
Calendar of events and performances
Everyone’s favorite “Peanuts” special, “A Charlie Brown Christmas Live” takes the stage at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino. Photo courtesy of acharliebrownchristmaslive.com
December 7 Festival of Lights Parade at 5:45 p.m. For more information, see page 6. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs. psfestivaloflights.com Holidaze at The Gardens on El Paseo at 7 p.m. Enjoy holiday windown shopping while you stroll down The Gardens during snowfall with snow shows, live entertainment on two stages, ice sculpture show, specialty bar, hot air balloon rides, photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, strolling carolers and more. The Gardens on El Paseo, 73545 El Paseo, Palm Desert. holidazeelpaseo.com Jazz for Jazz Lovers at 7 p.m. The Tom Scott Quintet performs jazz favorites. Profits from the concert support music education and scholarships for young musicians in the Coachella Valley. Pete Carlson’s Golf and Tennis, 73741 Highway 111, Palm Desert. 760-568-3263, petecarlsonsgolf.com Jim Gaffigan at 8 p.m. The four-time Grammy nominated comedian, actor, writer, producer, two-time New York Times best-selling author, Emmy winning top touring performer and multi-platinum-selling recording artist brings his “Secrets and Pies” tour to the desert. Agua Caliente Casino Rancho Mirage, 32250 Bob Hope Drive, Rancho Mirage. 888-999-1995, hotwatercasino.com Spencer Day at 8 p.m. Singer/songwriter and piano player whose work references numerous sources, including jazz, musical theater, cabaret, soul, folk, traditional and contemporary pop. He is best know for his hit single “Till You Come Back to Me,” and will debuting his sixth album. Annenberg Theater, 101 Museum Drive, Palm Springs. 760-325-4490, psmuseum.org Welcome Winter Festival at 10 a.m. Festuring games, activities and crafts for the kids, food and festival goodies, vendors for holiday shopping, live entertainment performances, silent auction and raffle with great prizes. Palm Desert Civic Center Park, 43900 San Pablo Avenue, Palm Desert. ronnieshouseforhope.org.
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Calendar of events and performances December 7-8 Indio International Tamale Festival at 10 a.m. For more information, see page 18. 100 Civic Center Way, Indio. tamalefestival.net
Christmas time. Featuring a variety of Christmas and holiday arrangements, this 26-member ensemble will play music which is sure to put you in a festive mood. St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church, 47535 Highway 74, Palm Desert. dfom.org.
December 8
December 12
Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols at 6:30 p.m. The traditional service of Christmas through readings and music with the St. Margaret’s Choir and Frederick Swann, organist. St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church, 47535 Highway 74, Palm Desert. dfom.org.
Holiday Extravaganza starring Michael Andrew at 8 p.m. For more information, see Curtain Time on page 36. McCallum Theatre, 73000 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert. 760-3402787, mccallumtheatre.com
December 9 Keyboard Conversations with Jeffrey Siegel at 7 p.m. You will be captivated by this smorgasbord of musical delights. Hear music by Grieg, Sibelius, Brahms, Tchaikovsky, Nielsen and Stenhammar. McCallum Theatre, 73000 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert. 760-340-2787, mccallumtheatre.com
December 11 Southern California Brass Consortium at 7 p.m. There is nothing quite as exhilarating as the sound of brass and percussions, especially at
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December 13 A Celtic Christmas with Eric Rigler and Dirk Freymuth at 8 p.m. “World’s most recorded piper” Eric Rigler and multi-talented string player/producer Dirk Freymuth teamup to create a soundscape of Celtic holiday cheer. Annenberg Theater, 101 Museum Drive, Palm Springs. 760-325-4490, psmuseum.org Chris Isaak at 8 p.m. The Grammy nominated recording artist, songwriter and actor, best known for his breakthrough classic “Wicked Game,” brings his hits to the Coachella Valley. Agua Caliente Casino Rancho Mirage, 32250 Bob Hope Drive, Rancho Mirage. 888-999-1995, hotwatercasino.com
Chris Isaak returns to the desert with his lates tour. Photo by Andrew Macpherson courtesy of Chris Isaak
DECEMBER 2019
Calendar of events and performances December 13 Colors of Christmas at 8 p.m. For more information, see page 5. McCallum Theatre, 73000 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert. 760340-2787, mccallumtheatre.com
December 14 Arame at 6:30 p.m. The Armenian pop singer brings his latest tour to the desert. Agua Caliente Casino Rancho Mirage, 32250 Bob Hope Drive, Rancho Mirage. 888-999-1995, hotwatercasino.com “A Charlie Brown Christmas Live on Stage” at 8 p.m. Everyone’s favorite “Peanuts” television special, celebrates the timeless classic, as Charlie, Snoopy, Lucy, Linus and the rest of the gang discovers the true meaning of the season. Fantasy Springs Resort Casino, 84245 Indio Springs Parkway, Indio. 800-827-2946, fantasyspringsresort.com
December 14 Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias brings his lighthearted humor to the Morongo Casino stage. Photo courtesy of Morongo Casino Resort Spa
DECEMBER 2019
Femmes of Rock at 8 p.m. Starring the Bella Electric Strings, features the music of AC/DC, ELO, Queen, Led Zeppelin, The Eagles, Jim Hen-
drix, Prince, Metallica, David Bowie, Pink Floyd and more. Spotlight 29 Casino, 46200 Harrison Place, Coachella. 760-775-5566, spotlight29.com Gabriel Iglesias at 7 and 10 p.m. Whether he’s poking fun at his obesity by calling himself “Fluffy” or telling hilarious anecdotes about his high school reunion, Iglesias is a lighthearted performer who always brings the laughs on his acclaimed tours. Morongo Casino Resort Spa, 49500 Seminole Drive, Cabazon. 800-252-4499, morongocasinoresort.com Jazz for Jazz Lovers at 7 p.m. The Curtis Taylor Quartet performs standards, classics and originals. Profits from the concert support music education and scholarships for young musicians in the Coachella Valley. Pete Carlson’s Golf and Tennis, 73741 Highway 111, Palm Desert. 760-568-3263, petecarlsonsgolf.com The Storm Large Holiday Ordeal at 8 p.m. What better way to celebrate the holiday season than with Storm Large? Storm will love you, leave you, delight you and abuse you with a wicked charm and stunning vocals that will have you begging for more. McCallum Theatre, 73000 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert. 760-340-2787, mccallumtheatre.com
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Explore and Enjoy
the Coachella Valley
Calendar of events and performances
Dave Koz and friends perform fresh, lively arrangements of season favorites in a high-energy show at the McCallum Theatre. Photo courtesy of McCallum Theatre
December 14-15 Santa Fly In & Winter Fun Land For more information, see page 18. Palm Springs Air Museum, 745 North Gene Autry Trail, Palm Springs. 760-778-6262, palmspringsairmuseum.org Desert Art Festival at 10 a.m. For more information, see page 5. Frances Stevens Park, 538 North Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs. 818-813-4478, westcoastartists.com
December 15 Tata Simonyan at 6:30 p.m. The pop singer widely known among the Armenian diaspora brings his latest tour to the desert. Agua Caliente Casino Rancho Mirage, 32250 Bob Hope Dr., Rancho Mirage. 888-999-1995, hotwatercasino.com
December 16 Voctave at 7 p.m. For more information, see page 5. McCallum Theatre, 73000 Fred Waring Dr., Palm Desert. 760-340-2787, mccallumtheatre.com
December 18 Dave Koz and Friends Christmas Tour at 8 p.m. Celebrated saxophonist Dave Koz will be joined by Jonathan Butler, Melissa Manchester, Michael Lington with special guest Chris Walker, performing their hits and jamming on fresh, lively arrangements of season favorites in a high-energy show for the entire family. McCallum Theatre, 73000 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert. 760-340-2787, mccallumtheatre.com
December 20 Adam Lambert at 8 p.m. Fresh off a summer tour with Queen, the multiplatinum-selling vocalist returns to the desert. Fantasy Springs Resort Casino, 84245 Indio Springs Parkway, Indio. 800-827-2946, fantasyspringsresort.com The Brian Setzer Orchestra at 8 p.m. The iconic guitarist, songwriter, vocalist and three-time Grammy-Award winner Brian Setzer and his 19-piece orchestra whip up a huge dose of retro holiday cheer. McCallum Theatre, 73000 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert. 760-340-2787, mccallumtheatre.com
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DECEMBER 2019
Calendar of events and performances
Vocalist Adam Lambert returns to Fantasy Springs Resort Casino with his latest tour. Photo by Joseph Sinclair courtesy of Fantasy Springs Resort Casino
December 21 Dionne Warwick at 8 p.m. Backed by a 14-piece string section, the six-time Grammy Award-winner will perform a mix of holiday and pop classics. Fantasy Springs Resort Casino, 84245 Indio Springs Parkway, Indio. 800-827-2946, fantasyspringsresort.com Jazz for Jazz Lovers at 7 p.m. The talented Eric Reed Quartet plays jazz favorites from a library of jazz history. Profits from the concert support music education and scholarships for young musicians in the Coachella Valley. Pete Carlson’s Golf and Tennis, 73741 Highway 111, Palm Desert. 760-568-3263, petecarlsonsgolf.com Rick Springfield at 9 p.m. Rock superstar Rick Springfield has been wooing audiences with his polished voice and leading-man looks ever since his rise to fame in the early ‘70s. More than four decades later, he looks and sounds as good as ever, treating fans to an unforgettable evening of solo performance and storytelling on his tour. Morongo Casino Resort Spa, 49500 Seminole Drive, Cabazon. 800-252-4499, morongocasinoresort.com
December 21 Star Party at the Monument at 5 p.m. The Astronomical Society of the Desert will conduct “sky tours” and direct observations of the night sky through telescopes and giant binoculars. Santa Rosa & San Jacinto Mountains National Monument Visitor Center, 51500 Highway 74, Palm Desert. 760-862-9984, desertmountains.org
December 28 Doug Smith Holiday Benefit Concert at 7 p.m. Grammy-Award winning guitarist and fingerstyle guitar champion Doug Smith, along with his wife, vocalist/flautist Judy Koch Smith, will entertain you with an evening of dazzling guitar solos, original compositions, familiar songs and fun duets. Annenberg Theater, 101 Museum Drive, Palm Springs. 760-325-4490, psmuseum.org Jazz for Jazz Lovers at 7 p.m. The LA Six are southern California’s most talented jazz players that will play a wide range of jazz favorites that includes standards, originals and music from The Great American Jazz Book. Profits from the concert support music education and scholarships for young musicians in the Coachella Valley. Pete Carlson’s Golf and Tennis, 73741 Highway 111, Palm Desert. 760-568-3263, petecarlsonsgolf.com Follow the Desert Entertainer on Facebook for up-to-date calendar of events and performances.
DECEMBER 2019
DESERT ENTERTAINER
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NIGHTLIFE FEATURE
Photos courtesy of Le Fe Wine Bar
Le Fe Wine Bar will put you in a chill mood
Small plates, wine flights and live acoustic music make this your go-to hotspot By Alison Elsner
La Fe Wine Bar 73900 El Paseo Palm Desert Hours 5 p.m. to closing 760-565-1430 facebook.com/lafewinebar
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L
a Fe is the kind of new-generation restaurant and lounge that will immediately put you at ease. It’s mod but never pretentious. Cozy and classy at the same time, it will likely end up being your one and only destination for the evening – and many more evenings to come. Several nights a week, there’s live entertainment, with the music flowing right along with the wine on Fridays and Saturdays from 9 p.m. to 12 a.m. Performers – think acoustic guitar, soft sounds and a European vibe - include Michael Keeth, Vinny Berry, Lance Riebsomer and Friends, Martin Barrera, Linda and Josh Heinze, Charlie Ellis, Stewart Caesar, Pléyhouse with Alf Alpha, Alejandro Bassi, Nacho Bustillos and
other smooth talents. La Fe frequently holds special paint nights or half off bottle specials which pair perfectly with menu items like the La Fe salad ($9.95) or the heirloom tomato salad ($13.95), chicken pesto, shrimp or mushroom truffle flat bread ($8.95 and up) and small plates like short rib grits, bruschetta, beer bratwurst on a pretzel bun and 5-cheese or meat empanadas ($8.95 and up). The charcuterie and cheese plates are “must-order,” featuring selections like meat and cheese board, cheese board and charcuterie only board ($12.95 to $19), which hit the spot whether ordering for happy hour, late night or anytime in between. Meals are designed for tasting – small plates and tapas served alongside fanciful
flights of reds like cabernet, merlot, shiraz, pinot and rioja. Yet if you’ve got a big appetite, you won’t leave hungry. Industry pick wine selections by the bottle include labels like Hanzell or Silverado Chardonnay, Domaine Anderson or Elouan Pinot Noir or Gundlach Bundschu Cabernet ($40-$60). Choices by the glass include Line 39 Chardonnay, Pepi Pinot Grigio, Cristalino Cava, Line 39 Pinot Noir and Line 39 Cabernet ($6 each). If you’re leaning more towards brew, menu offerings include Stella Artois, Santa Monica Wit, Absolution Red Ale and Heatwave Amber Ale ($5 each). At La Fe, you will feel every bit as “chill” as the wine that awaits.
DECEMBER 2019
NIGHTLIFE
Nightlife Roundup Festive nighttime outings unfold Entertainment sometimes changes after press deadline. Please check with venue to confirm the evening’s entertainment and time.
Mondays Ace Hotel & Swim Club Fabulous Bingo, 7 p.m. Ace Trivia with Bella Da Ball, 9 p.m. 701 East Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs 760-325-9900, acehotel.com/palmsprings The Nest Kevin Henry, 7:30 p.m. to midnight 75188 Highway 111, Indian Wells 760-346-2314, gotothenest.com
Vicky’s of Santa Fe John Stanley King’s Country, 6:30 p.m. 45100 Club Drive, Indian Wells 760-345-9770, vickysofsantafe.com
Bernie’s Lounge and Supper Club Live entertainment, 6:30 to 10 p.m. 69830 Highway 111, Rancho Mirage 760-202-4499, bernies.club
Village Pub Live entertainment, 9 p.m. to close 266 South Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs 760-323-3265, palmspringsvillagepub.com
The Nest Tim Burleson, 7:30 p.m. to midnight 75188 Highway 111, Indian Wells 760-346-2314, gotothenest.com
Viva Cigar Lounge Barry and Michelle, 8 p.m. 72877 Dinah Shore Drive, Rancho Mirage 760-636-0239, vivacigarlounge.com
Oscar’s Café & Bar Kal David, 7 to 10 p.m. 125 East Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs 760-325-1188, oscarspalmsprings.com
Woody’s Palm House Motown Monday, 6:30 to 10 p.m. 450 South Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs 760-230-0188, woodyspalmhouse.com
Pappy & Harriet’s Pioneertown Palace Open mic night at 7 p.m. 53688 Pioneertown Road, Pioneertown 760-365-5956, pappyandharriets.com
Tuesdays
Purple Room Keisha D, 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. 1900 East Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs 760-322-4422, purpleroompalmsprings.com Retro Room Lounge Karaoke from 9 p.m. to 1:45 a.m. 125 East Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs 760-656-8680, retroroomlounge.com
DECEMBER 2019
Pappy & Harriet’s Pioneertown Palace 12/31: Black Crystal Wolf Kids at 9 p.m. 53688 Pioneertown Road, Pioneertown 760-365-5956, pappyandharriets.com Purple Room Rose Mallett, 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. 1900 East Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs 760-322-4422, purpleroompalmsprings.com Retro Room Lounge Karaoke with host Jason Eberle, 9 p.m. 125 East Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs 760-656-8680, retroroomlounge.com
Ace Hotel & Swim Club Karaoke with Keisha, 9 p.m. 701 East Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs 760-325-9900, acehotel.com/palmsprings
Stacy’s Palm Springs Live entertainment, 8 p.m. to close 220 East Arenas Road, Palm Springs 760-620-5003, stacysbarps.com
Backstreet Bistro Live Jazz, 6:30 p.m. 72820 El Paseo, Palm Desert 760-346-6393, backstreet-bistro.com
Vicky’s of Santa Fe John McCormick Band, 6:30 p.m. 45100 Club Drive, Indian Wells 760-345-9770, vickysofsantafe.com
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Tuesdays Village Pub Live entertainment, 9 p.m. to close 266 South Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs 760-323-3265, palmspringsvillagepub.com Woody’s Palm House Live entertainment, 6:30 to 10 p.m. 450 South Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs 760-230-0188, woodyspalmhouse.com
Wednesdays Ace Hotel & Swim Club Belly Flop Comedy Show, 9 p.m. 701 East Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs 760-325-9900, acehotel.com/palmsprings Bernie’s Lounge and Supper Club Live entertainment, 6:30 to 10 p.m. 69830 Highway 111, Rancho Mirage 760-202-4499, bernies.club bluEmber Michael Keeth, 6 to 10 p.m. 41000 Bob Hope Drive, Rancho Mirage 760-5834-2110, omnihotels.com The Nest Kevin Henry, 7 p.m., Tim Burleson, 8 p.m. 75188 Highway 111, Indian Wells 760-346-2314, gotothenest.com Oscar’s Café & Bar Live band karaoke, 7 p.m. 125 East Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs 760-325-1188, oscarspalmsprings.com Purple Room Michael Holmes and Keisha D, 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. 1900 E Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs 760-322-4422, purpleroompalmsprings.com Retro Room Lounge Karaoke with host Karaokie Jo, 7 p.m. 125 East Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs 760-656-8680, retroroomlounge.com Vicky’s of Santa Fe Slim Man Band, 6:30 p.m. 45100 Club Drive, Indian Wells 760-345-9770, vickysofsantafe.com Village Pub Live entertainment, 9 p.m. to close 266 South Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs 760-323-3265, palmspringsvillagepub.com Viva Cigar Lounge Cool Papa Cole, 8 p.m. 72877 Dinah Shore Drive, Rancho Mirage 760-636-0239, vivacigarlounge.com Woody’s Palm House Live entertainment, 6:30 to 10 p.m. 450 South Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs 760-230-0188, woodyspalmhouse.com
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Barry Minniefield performs at Viva Cigar Lounge every Monday.
Thursdays Ace Hotel & Swim Club 12/12 & 12/26: Mr. Goodboy, 9 p.m. 701 East Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs 760-325-9900, acehotel.com/palmsprings Bernie’s Lounge and Supper Club Live entertainment, 6:30 to 10 p.m. 69830 Highway 111, Rancho Mirage 760-202-4499, bernies.club bluEmber John Stanley King, 6 to 10 p.m. 41000 Bob Hope Drive, Rancho Mirage 760-5834-2110, omnihotels.com The Nest Kevin Henry, 7 p.m., Tim Burleson, 8 p.m. 75188 Highway 111, Indian Wells 760-346-2314, gotothenest.com Oscar’s Café & Bar Live entertainment, 7 to 10 p.m. 125 East Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs 760-325-1188, oscarspalmsprings.com Pappy & Harriet’s Pioneertown Palace 12/5: Patrolled by Radar at 8 p.m. 12/12: Nicholas Mudd Band at 8 p.m. 12/19: Leroy from the North at 8 p.m. 12/26: Solid Ray Woods at 8 p.m. 53688 Pioneertown Road, Pioneertown 760-365-5956, pappyandharriets.com
Photo courtesy of Barry Minniefield
Purple Room Sharon Sills, 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. 1900 East Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs 760-322-4422, purpleroompalmsprings.com Retro Room Lounge Drag Queen Karaoke, 9 p.m. to 1:50 a.m. 125 East Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs 760-656-8680, retroroomlounge.com Stacy’s Palm Springs Live entertainment, 6 to 10 p.m. 220 East Arenas Road, Palm Springs 760-620-5003, stacysbarps.com Tack Room Tavern Karaoke, 8 p.m. 81900 Avenue 51, Indio 760-347-9985, tackroomtavern.com Vicky’s of Santa Fe Guest Band, 6:30 p.m. 45100 Club Drive, Indian Wells 760-345-9770, vickysofsantafe.com Village Pub Live entertainment, 9 p.m. to close 266 South Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs 760-323-3265, palmspringsvillagepub.com Woody’s Palm House Live entertainment, 6:30 to 10 p.m. 450 South Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs 760-230-0188, woodyspalmhouse.com
DECEMBER 2019
NIGHTLIFE
Fridays Ace Hotel & Swim Club 12/13: Jetset featuring Nena Anderson, 8 p.m. 12/20: Old St. Shtick, 8 p.m. 701 East Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs 760-325-9900, acehotel.com/palmsprings Bernie’s Lounge and Supper Club Live entertainment, 6:30 to 10 p.m. 69830 Highway 111, Rancho Mirage 760-202-4499, bernies.club Big Rock Pub Live music, 8:30 to 11:30 p.m. 79940 Westward Ho Drive, Indio 760-200-9844, thebigrockpub.com bluEmber Stanley Butler, 6 to 10 p.m. 41000 Bob Hope Drive, Rancho Mirage 760-5834-2110, omnihotels.com The Nest Kevin Henry, 7 p.m., Tim Burleson, 8 p.m. 75188 Highway 111, Indian Wells 760-346-2314, gotothenest.com Oscar’s Café & Bar Celebrity Female Impersonation, 8 p.m. 125 East Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs 760-325-1188, oscarspalmsprings.com Pappy & Harriet’s Pioneertown Palace 12/6: Black Mountain w/ Ryley Walker at 8 p.m. 12/13: Cordovas at 8 p.m. 12/20: Lola Kirke at 8 p.m. 12/27: Sara Petite at 8 p.m. 53688 Pioneertown Road, Pioneertown 760-365-5956, pappyandharriets.com
Country singer Leslie Stevens performs at Pappy & Harriet’s on December 21.
Purple Room 12/6: Levi Kreis, 6 p.m. 12/13: The Skivvies, 6 p.m. 12/20: Diane Schuur, 6 p.m. 12/27: Palm Springs Jump!, 6 p.m. 1900 East Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs 760-322-4422, purpleroompalmsprings.com
Viva Cigar Lounge 12/6: Alex Santana, 8 p.m. 12/13: Jeremiah Levi, 8 p.m. 12/20: Nick Sosa, 8 p.m. 12/27: Ricki Z, 8 p.m. 72877 Dinah Shore Drive, Rancho Mirage 760-636-0239, vivacigarlounge.com
Retro Room Lounge Karaoke, 9 p.m. to 1:45 a.m. 125 East Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs 760-656-8680, retroroomlounge.com
Woody’s Palm House Rose Mallett, 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. 450 South Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs 760-230-0188, woodyspalmhouse.com
Spotlight 29 Casino Live Latin Bands at En Vivo!, 9:30 p.m. Live music at Hot Spot, 9 p.m. 46200 Harrison Place, Coachella 760-775-5566, Spotlight29.com
Saturdays
Stacy’s Palm Springs Live entertainment, 8 p.m. to midnight 220 East Arenas Road, Palm Springs 760-620-5003, stacysbarps.com
Ace Hotel & Swim Club 12/7: Dayclubbing (DJ Set), noon to 5 p.m. 12/14: Discoteca, noon 12/21: Old St. Shtick at 8 p.m. 701 East Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs 760-325-9900, acehotel.com/palmsprings
Tack Room Tavern Live music, 9 p.m. 81900 Avenue 51, Indio 760-347-9985, tackroomtavern.com
Bernie’s Lounge and Supper Club Live entertainment, 6:30 to 10 p.m. 69830 Highway 111, Rancho Mirage 760-202-4499, bernies.club
Vicky’s of Santa Fe Meet the Corwins, 5:30 p.m. John Stanley King Show, 8 p.m. 45100 Club Drive, Indian Wells 760-345-9770, vickysofsantafe.com
Backstreet Bistro Live Jazz, 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. 72820 El Paseo, Palm Desert 760-346-6393, backstreet-bistro.com
Village Pub Live entertainment, 9 p.m. to close 266 South Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs 760-323-3265, palmspringsvillagepub.com
Big Rock Pub Live music, 8:30 to 11:30 p.m. 79940 Westward Ho Drive, Indio 760-200-9844, thebigrockpub.com
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Photo courtesy of lesliestevensmusic.com
bluEmber Gina Carey, 6 to 10 p.m. 41000 Bob Hope Drive, Rancho Mirage 760-5834-2110, omnihotels.com The Nest Kevin Henry, 7 p.m., Tim Burleson, 8 p.m. 75188 Highway 111, Indian Wells 760-346-2314, gotothenest.com Oscar’s Café & Bar Celebrity Female Impersonation, 8 p.m. 125 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs 760-325-1188, oscarspalmsprings.com Pappy & Harriet’s Pioneertown Palace 12/7: Kolars at 9 p.m. 12/14: Allah-Las at 8:30 p.m. 12/21: Leslie Stevens at 8 p.m. 12/28: The Evangenitals at 8 p.m. 53688 Pioneertown Road, Pioneertown 760-365-5956, pappyandharriets.com Purple Room 12/7: Scot Bruce, 6 p.m. 12/14: The Skivvies, 6 p.m. 12/21: Diane Schuur, 6 p.m. 12/28: Scot Bruce, 6 p.m. 1900 East Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs 760-322-4422, purpleroompalmsprings.com Retro Room Lounge Karaoke, midnight to 1:45 a.m. Drag Show, 10 p.m. (Reservations required) Karaoke, midnight to 2 a.m. 125 East Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs 760-656-8680, retroroomlounge.com
DECEMBER 2019
NIGHTLIFE
Saturdays Spotlight 29 Casino Live music at Hot Spot, 9 p.m. 46200 Harrison Place, Coachella 760-775-5566, Spotlight29.com Stacy’s Palm Springs Live entertainment, 8 p.m. to midnight 220 East Arenas Road, Palm Springs 760-620-5003, stacysbarps.com Tack Room Tavern Live music, 9 p.m. 81900 Avenue 51, Indio 760-347-9985, tackroomtavern.com Vicky’s of Santa Fe Rose Mallett & Company, 5 p.m. Kal David, 7:30 p.m. 45100 Club Drive, Indian Wells 760-345-9770, vickysofsantafe.com
Woody’s Palm House Stanley Butler Band, 6:30 p.m. 450 South Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs 760-230-0188, woodyspalmhouse.com
Pappy & Harriet’s Pioneertown Palace The Sunday Band at 7:30 p.m. 53688 Pioneertown Road, Pioneertown 760-365-5956, pappyandharriets.com
Sundays
Purple Room The Judy Show’s Old Fashion Christmas, 5 p.m. 1900 East Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs 760-322-4422, purpleroompalmsprings.com
Ace Hotel & Swim Club 12/1 and 8: Day Clubbing at Noon 12/15: Intoxica Radio with Howie Pyro, 9 p.m. 12/22: Old St. Shtick, 8 p.m. 701 East Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs 760-325-9900, acehotel.com/palmsprings Bernie’s Lounge and Supper Club Live entertainment, 4 to 7:15 p.m. Live entertainment, 7:30 to 11 p.m. 69830 Highway 111, Rancho Mirage 760-202-4499, bernies.club
Retro Room Lounge Karaoke with Dion, 7 p.m. 125 East Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs 760-656-8680, retroroomlounge.com Stacy’s Palm Springs Live entertainment, 2 to 7 p.m. 220 East Arenas Road, Palm Springs 760-620-5003, stacysbarps.com
bluEmber Michael Keeth, 5 to 9 p.m. 41000 Bob Hope Drive, Rancho Mirage 760-5834-2110, omnihotels.com
Vicky’s of Santa Fe John Stanley King Trio, 6 p.m. 45100 Club Drive, Indian Wells 760-345-9770, vickysofsantafe.com
Village Pub Live entertainment, 9 p.m. to close 266 South Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs 760-323-3265, palmspringsvillagepub.com
The Nest Tim Burleson, 2 p.m., Kevin Henry, 7:30 p.m. 75188 Highway 111, Indian Wells 760-346-2314, gotothenest.com
Village Pub Live entertainment, 9 p.m. to close 266 South Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs 760-323-3265, palmspringsvillagepub.com
Viva Cigar Lounge Paul Elia, 8 p.m. 72877 Dinah Shore Drive, Rancho Mirage 760-636-0239, vivacigarlounge.com
Oscar’s Café & Bar Bitchiest Brunch Show at 11 a.m. 125 East Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs 760-325-1188, oscarspalmsprings.com
Woody’s Palm House Live Entertainment, 6:30 to 10 p.m. 450 South Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs 760-230-0188, woodyspalmhouse.com
DECEMBER 2019
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CLUB SCENE
Dance the night away
Your guide to the club scene in the Coachella Valley Cascade Lounge Located just off the casino floor, Cascade Lounge is the perfect place to enjoy dancing and drinks. Featuring live entertainment six days a week. Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs, 401 East Amado Road, Palm Springs. 888-999-1995, sparesortcasino.com Chill Bar Hosting some of the best LGBT parties in Palm Springs featuring local and world renowned DJs and celebrities. 217 East Arenas Road, Palm Springs. 760-327-1079, chillbarpalmsprings.com The Club at Hotel Zoso The lounge and dance club features a vintage disco vibe merging with Palm Springs chic. Experience a new level of cool in a hot spot of nightlife activity. 150 S. Indian Canyon Dr., Palm Springs. 760-325-9676, hotelzosopalmsprings.com Copa Nightclub One of the hottest nightclubs in the Coachella Valley, with state of the art lighting and sound. Featuring top world
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class DJs playing various genres of music, Wednesday-Saturday. 244 E. Amado Road, Palm Springs. 760-866-0021, copapalmsprings.com Costas Nightclub Experience the excitement of this desert favorite, open to guests 21 and over every Friday and Saturday. Known for its DJs, live music and tempting libations. JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa, 74855 Country Club Drive, Palm Desert. 760-341-1724, marriott.com
LIT The bar and lounge plays host to Noches De Fuego, Brad’s Pad, Country Nights and features live bands on weekends playing top 40, hip-hop, funk and R&B hits so guests can dance the night away. Fantasy Springs Resort Casino, 84245 Indio Springs Parkway, Indio. 800-827-2946, fantasyspringsresort.com
En Vivo Dance to music from live Latin bands every Saturday night. Spotlight 29 Casino, 46200 Harrison Place, Coachella. 760-7755566, spotlight29.com
Toucans Tiki Lounge Toucans offers something for everyone—gay, lesbian, transgender and straight. Music ranges from show tunes and Broadway to dance hits from the 70s through today. Drag shows are featured every Sunday night. 2100 N. Palm Canyon Dr., Palm Springs. 760-416-7584, toucanstikilounge.com
Hunters Nightclub Dance the night away with world-class DJs on the state-of-the art dance floor. The club also features go-go boys, contests and theme nights. 302 East Arenas Road, Palm Springs. 760-323-0700, hunterspalmsprings.com
Entertainment sometimes changes after press deadline. Please check with venue to confirm the evening’s hours, theme night, dress code and more. Visit, desertentertainer.com to sign up for the free monthly newsletter to stay up-to-date in nightlife, dining, event happenings and more.
DECEMBER 2019
CURTAIN TIME
“A Charlie Brown Christmas Live on Stage.”
Photo courtesy of acharliebrownchristmaslive.com
Discover where the curtains will rise this month By Gary Walker
T
wisted Broadway” is the December 12 fundraiser to benefit educational programs at CVRep, featuring a lineup of talented Broadway artists performing songs that were originally written for the opposite gender, as well as songs they always wanted to sing but couldn’t because they would be miscast. The performers include Randy Brenner, Erica Hanrahan, Loren Freeman, Julie Garnye, Jeffrey Mahler Landman, Sal Mistretta, Perry Ojeda, Kristen Towers-Rowles and Robert Yacko. CVRep Artistic Director Ron Celona directs and Wayne Abravanel is musical director. Besides the music, there will be cocktails, party food and a raffle. Curtain Time: “Twisted Broadway” fundraiser, 4 and 7:30 p.m. Thursday, December 12, CVRep, 68510 East Palm Canyon, Cathedral City. Tickets: $150 and $300, seating is limited, 760-296-2966 or cvrep.org.
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‘Masterpiece’
CV Rep has combined with Nickerson Rossi Dance for two performances of “Masterpiece,” a concert of NRD’s acclaimed contemporary dance works, Sunday, December 8. Curtain Time: 2 and 7 p.m. Sunday, December 8. CVRep, 68510 East Palm Canyon Drive, Cathedral City. Tickets: $40, 760-296-2966 or cvrep.org.
Desert Symphony Holiday
The Desert Symphony has created a cornucopia of Christmas cheer for their Holiday Extravaganza December 12 at the McCallum Theatre. Guest star is Michael Andrew, noted jazz singer, bandleader and actor. Symphony Musical Director Gary Berkson has programmed 13 popular and traditional songs for each half of the concert. The first half opens with “The Most Wonderful Time of the Year” and includes the touching “The Christmas Song” and “I’ll Be Home for Christmas,” ending with “White Christmas” and “The Man with the Bag.” The second half features Dean Martin’s Winter Song Medley and ends with “Have Yourself a Merry Christmas.” Bring the hankies.
Curtain Time: Desert Symphony’s Holiday Extravaganza starring Michael Andrew, 8 p.m. Thursday, December 12. McCallum Theatre, Palm Desert. Tickets and info: 760-340-2787, mccallumtheatre.com or 760-773-5988, desertsymphony.org.
‘Let There Be Peace’
The California Desert Chorale’s Christmas concert is “Let There Be Peace,” a “joyful, heartening and uplifting program” of familiar and traditional carols, such as “It Came Upon a Midnight Clear,” “Silent Night,” “Sweet, Heavenly Light,” “The Stars Will Dance” and two original choral pieces by composer Maestro Tim Bruneau. The concert also will include Randall Thompson’s stunning “Alleluia,” Donald Fraser’s “This Christmastide,” an homage to the late American soprano, Jessye Norman, and a satirical arrangement of music of Tchaikovsky called “Nutcracker Jingles.” Curtain Time: “Let There Be Peace” concert, California Desert Chorale, 3 p.m. Sunday, December 8 and 15; 7 p.m. Wednesday, December 11, Indian Wells Theater at CSUSB Palm Desert, 37500 Cook Street. Tickets: $40 reserved seating, 800595-4849 or californiadesertchorale.org.
DECEMBER 2019
CURTAIN TIME Annenberg’s December Spencer Day, Saturday, December 7, 8 p.m.-Day is a modern jazz singer and songwriter best known for his hit Jazz single “Till You Come to Me” as well as appearing on the CBS television network show Star Search in 2002–2003. He has released five studio albums to date. Judy Kuhn, December 9, 10, 11, 6 p.m. Kuhn is an American singer and actress, known for her work in musical theatre. A four-time Tony Award nominee, she has released four studio albums and sang the title role in the 1995 film “Pocahontas.” “A Celtic Christmas with Eric Rigler and Dirk Freymuth” 8 p.m. Friday, December 13. The “World’s Most Recorded Piper” Eric Rigler and multi-talented string player/producer Dirk Freymuth team up to create a soundscape of Celtic holiday music. Tickets: $53. “The Nutcracker,” 7:30 p.m. Saturday, December 14; 2 p.m. Sunday, December 15. Performed by CK Dance. Palm Springs Gay Men’s Chorus “A Modern Family Holiday,” 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, December 20-21; 3 p.m. Sunday, December 22. Curtain Time: Tickets and information Annenberg Theater at the Palm Springs Art Museum, 101 Museum Drive, Palm Springs, 760-322-4800 or psmuseum.org.
Mamora on the Steinway The Steinway Society of Riverside County (SSRC) brings pianist Jonathan Mamora to the Rancho Mirage Library on Thursday, December 5, 7 p.m. The event is free and open to the public. Mamora, a native of Southern California, is a Steinway Festival alumnus, both participating and winning the annual event many times. He recently completed his Master’s program at Julliard and is currently pursuing his Doctor of Musical Arts in Piano Performance and Literature at the Eastman School of Music. Recent performances include Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto No. 1 with the Coachella Valley Symphony, the world premiere of Ariel Quintana’s Piano Concerto No. 1, and several premiere performances at The Juilliard School and Lincoln Center.
Spencer Day.
DECEMBER 2019
Photo courtesy of spencerday.com
Curtain Time: Jonathan Mamora, presented by the Steinway Society of Riverside, 7 p.m. Thursday, December 5, Rancho Mirage Library. Info: steinwayriverside.org.
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CURTAIN TIME Juke Box Musical
Nickerson Rossi Dance’s “Masterpiece.”
‘Big Band Christmas’ Back by popular demand, LimonCarr Desert Theatricals and the City of Rancho Mirage present “A Big Band Christmas,” Saturday, December 14. Step back in time to the 1940’s during WW II and experience the sound of a “live radio show” being broadcast to the boys overseas. A nine-piece swing band and four singers reminisce through the holiday with your favorite holiday music in tight four-part harmony, reenact vintage commercials and share letters to
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Photo courtesy of CVRep
and from the boys overseas from their families. It’s a heart-warming way to kick off the holiday season. Curtain Time: “Big Band Christmas,” Saturday, December 14, Rancho Mirage Amphitheater located at Rancho Mirage Community Park, 71560 San Jacinto Drive, Rancho Mirage. Gates open at 4:30 p.m. for registered ticket holders and 5 p.m. for non-registered - the performance begins at 6 p.m. This event is free to the public with firstcome, first-served seating.
“Mid-Century Moderns” is a new juke box musical to debut in the Coachella Valley Thursdays, December 5 and 12, at AJ’s on the Green, Cathedral City. Journey back to 1966 Palm Springs, along with the music of Tom Jones, Petula Clark, Lesley Gore, Frank and Nancy Sinatra, The Association, The Monkees and many more. These fabulous singers and their hits come to life in this “delightful tale of plucky Wisconsin widow (Maryann Popecky), who transforms from frump to fabulous when she finds herself at the center of modernity in Palm Springs!” Written and directed by Mark Christopher, “Mid-Century Moderns” features popular TV and stage performers Rena Strober, Ben Goldberg and Darren Bluestone, along with awardwinning local talent, Tom Warrick and Kellee McQuinn. Curtain Time: “Mid-Century Moderns,” Thursday, December 5 and 12, AJ’s on the Green, inside Date Palm Country Club, 36200 Date Palm Drive, Cathedral City. The $49.50 ticket includes a 3-course dinner. Seating starts at 6 p.m., show starts at 7 p.m., 760-202-1111.
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CURTAIN TIME ‘A Charlie Brown Christmas’ “A Charlie Brown Christmas Live on Stage” brings the Peanuts TV version to life Saturday evening, December 14, at the Fantasy Springs Resort Casino’s Special Events Center. This timeless holiday classic by Charles M. Schultz features Charlie, Snoopy, Lucy, Linus and the rest of the “Peanuts” gang, encompassed in favorite scenes from the original TV special with more fun and outstanding music by Vince Guaraldi. After the show, the audience joins the Peanuts gang in singing traditional Christmas songs and carols. Curtain Time: “A Charlie Brown Christmas Live on Stage,” 8 p.m. Saturday, December 14, Fantasy Springs Resort Casino, 84-245 Indio Springs Pkwy, Indio. Tickets and info: $29, $49, $59, 800-827-2946 or FantasySpringsResort.com.
Continuing Shows “The Princess and the Pea,” weekends, thru December 15. Theatre 29, 73637 Sullivan Road, Twentynine Palms. Tickets and info: 760-361-4151 or theatre29.org. “Closer,” weekends thru Sunday, December 22. Nominated for a Tony Award as Best Play, “Closer” explains the vicissitudes of modern love, features a quartet of lovers caught up in a web of love, lust, sex and betrayal. Groves Cabin Theatre, 8758 Desert Willow Trail, Morongo Valley. Tickets and info: 760-365-4523 or grovescabintheatre.org.
Cabaret on Sundays Joslyn Center’s Arthur Newman Theater welcomes back Les Michaels’ Cabaret on Sunday Series at 2 p.m., continuing in December with the following performers: December 8 “Peggy Lee – Her Palm Springs Early Years,” starring Leanna Rodgers December 15 “How Glad I Am – The Music of Nancy Wilson,” featuring Melba Miller December 22 “Big Band Jazz for the Holidays,” with Doug MacDonald December 29 “Clifford Bell & Friends” Curtain Time: Arthur Newman Theater, 73750 Catalina Way, Palm Desert. Tickets: $15 cash at the door. For more info: lesmichaels.com/joslyn.html
‘Sounds of the Holiday’ Desert Winds Freedom Band plays its Holiday Concert, “Sounds of the Holiday,” 7 p.m. Saturday, December 14, Bochner Auditorium, Jewish Community Center, Palm Springs. Tickets: $30 at desertwindsfb.org.
On-stage this month
“All Is Calm: The Christmas Truce of 1914,” poetry, diary entries, official war documents and letters home are woven together with iconic WWI songs, patriotic tunes and European Christmas Carols, 3 p.m. Sunday, December 15. McCallum Theatre, Palm Desert. Tickets: $38-$78, 760-340-2787 or mccallumtheatre.com.
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ATTRACTIONS
It’s time for adventure Attractions worth adding to your itinerary
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xperiencing something new is what traveling is all about. From the normal to the odd and eccentric, these can’tmiss, curious attractions are celebrated for keeping the Greater Palm Springs and surrounding desert region utterly unique. Best of the Best Tours Serving the Coachella Valley for 20 years, Best of the Best Tours offers premier entertainment and informational tour services. Tours include the Indian Canyon tour, Rich and Famous tour, Windmill tour and the Bonanza tour (a combination of the Best of the Best award-winning tours). thebestofthebesttours.com
ing the rock wall or just get wet on the splash island bumper boats. Play in the arcade with over 129 state-of-the-art games. 67700 East Palm Canyon Drive, Cathedral City. 760-770-7522, boomerspalmsprings.com
forged through the difficult environment to create the community it is today. Featuring a date museum, memorial date and Japanese garden and the oldest Cork Oak tree in the desert. 82616 Miles Avenue, Indio. 760-342-6651, cvhm.org
Cabot’s Pueblo Museum A unique Hopi inspired Pueblo, Cabot’s Pueblo Museum is a multi-level building that includes 35 rooms, 150 windows and 65 doors all crafted from found materials. The museum houses Native American pottery, 20th-century photographs and artifacts. 67616 Desert View Avenue, Desert Hot Springs. 760-329-7610, cabotsmuseum.org
Desert Ice Castle The coolest place in the Desert is this NHL regulation-sized skating rink. Open to the public for recreational, figure skating and hockey. 68600 Perez Road, Cathedral City. 760-324-0400, deserticecastle.com
Big Bear Alpine Zoo San Bernardino County’s only zoo also serves as a wildlife animal sanctuary, rehabilitation and education center. 43285 Goldmine Dr, Big Bear Lake. h909-5841299, bigbearzoo.org
Children’s Discovery Museum of the Desert Children and parents can learn and discover hands-on activities together, including traveling exhibits, toddler town and much more. 71701 Gerald Ford Drive, Rancho Mirage. 760-321-0602, cdmod.org
Boomers! Race to victory on the go-kart tracks. Become a golf legend on any one of the three 18 hole mini golf courses. Get a high from climb-
Coachella Valley History Museum The Museum seeks to share the unique history of the desert, Cahuilla Indians and pioneers who
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Desert Rocks Indoor Climbing Featuring 7,000 square feet of climbing surface, and 30 foot high lead and top-rope walls. Harness climbing and bouldering for all abilities and age levels. 19160 McLane Street, Palm Springs. 760-671-1101, climbdesertrocks.com Escape Games at The River It may look like an ordinary room, but it’s actually a real life adventure game designed for small groups of friends, families and co-workers. Find the hidden objects, figure out the clues and solve
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ATTRACTIONS Moorten Botanical Garden Home to more than 3,000 desert cacti and other plants, the garden is a hidden treasure. You’ll find thousands of species of succulents and cactus growing together from all over the world. 1701 South Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs. 760327-6555, moortenbotanicalgarden.com
Giraffe at The Living Desert.
the puzzles to earn your freedom and “Escape the Room.” 71800 Highway 111, Rancho Mirage. 760-668-9041, escapegamesattheriver.com Escape Room Palm Springs Choose from six themed rooms, good for all ages. You have 60 minutes to search for clues, solve puzzles and achieve your goal before time runs out. 2500 North Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs. 760-779-8888, escapeps.com Get Air Trampoline Park A combination of amusement and exercise in a spacious in-
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door trampoline park. Featuring wall-to-wall trampolines, foam pits, dunk lanes and a ninja course. 34450 Gateway Drive, Palm Desert. 760-206-7211, getairpalmdesert.com
Palm Springs Air Museum Visitors can get up close to vintage World War II and Korea/Vietnam era aircrafts at the Palm Springs Air Museum. More than 40 flyable and static planes are on display inside three climate-controlled hangars totaling 65,000 square feet and outside on the tarmac. Visitors can tour the interior of a flyable B-17 and C-47 (when not flying). CNN Travel named the air museum one of the top 14 aviation museums in the world in 2014. 745 North Gene Autry Trail, Palm Springs. 760-778-6262, palmspringsairmuseum.org
The Living Desert Representing the desert environments of North America and Africa. With more than 1,200 protected acres, 450 wild animals, live animal shows, kids’ play park, tranquil gardens, model train exhibit, hiking trails, tram rides and more, visitors experience an oasis of family fun. 47900 Portola Ave., Palm Desert. 760-346-5694, livingdesert.org
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway The world’s largest rotating tram car travels over two-and-one-half miles along the breathtaking cliffs of Chino Canyon, transporting riders to the pristine wilderness of the Mt. San Jacinto State Park. During your approximately tenminute journey, tram cars rotate slowly, offer-
Photo courtesy of The Living Desert
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ATTRACTIONS ing picturesque and spectacular vistas of the valley floor below. Once you reach the Mountain Station—elevation 8,516 feet—enjoy two restaurants, observation decks, natural history museum, two documentary theaters, gift shop and over 50 miles of hiking trails. 1 Tram Way, Palm Springs. 760-325-4537, pstramway.com Palm Springs Art Museum The museum’s extensive permanent collection includes significant works by western, contemporary and glass artists, and features temporary exhibitions from internationally acclaimed artists. Year round hours: Monday, Tuesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursdays noon to 8 p.m. Closed Wednesdays and major holidays. 101 Museum Drive, Palm Springs. 760-322-4800, psmuseum.org Shields Date Garden Shields’ famous date groves provide an assortment of dates, as well as their famous date shakes, date ice cream and citrus. See the free movie “The Romance and Sex Life of the Date” after a walk through the biblical garden path on the 17-acre date farm, or enjoy a meal at the patio café. 80225 Highway 111, Indio. 760-3470996, shieldsdategarden.com
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Feel Me (Cranberry) by Kelly Akashi.
Sunnylands Center & Gardens Enjoy sculpture from the Sunnylands Collection as well as a rotating exhibition. There is a film and other offerings about the history of Sunnylands and its founders. Sunnylands also features free public programs, walks and activities for familes are offered on a regular basis. 37977 Bob Hope Drive, Rancho Mirage.760-328-2829, sunnylands.org
Photo courtesy of Palm Springs Art Museum
Uprising Adventure Guides Giving the people the opportunity to climb, explore their surroundings and experience Joshua Tree National Park. 8332 Fleur Dr, Joshua Tree. 888-CLIMB-ON, joshuatreeuprising.com Sign up for the Desert Entertainer email newsletter at desertentertainer.com to receive the latest in attractions, events, dining and more! Be entered in a monthly restaurant gift certificate drawing.
DECEMBER 2019
HAPPY HOUR
Cathedral City Bubba’s Bones & Brews Daily happy hour from 3 to 6 p.m. 68525 Ramon Rd. 760-699-7231. Henry’s Sports Bar & Grill Daily happy hour from 3 to 7 p.m. 68955 Ramon Road. 760-656-3444. Otori Japanese Cuisine Daily happy hour from 8 p.m. to closing. 68100 Ramon Road, Suite A1. 760-699-5486. Trilussa Ristorante Daily happy hour in the bar, 4 to 7 p.m. 68718 E. Palm Canyon Drive. 760-328-2300.
Indian Wells Don Diego’s Happy hour from 3 to 6 p.m. 74969 Highway 111. 760-340-5588. Eureka! Daily “hoppy” hour, 2 to 5 p.m. and 9 p.m. to close. 74985 Highway 111, Indian Wells. 760-834-7700. Vicky’s of Santa Fe Daily happy hour, 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. 45100 Club Drive. 760-345-9770. Vue Grille & Bar Happy hour at the bar from 3 to 6 p.m. daily. Indian Wells Golf Resort, 44500 Indian Wells Lane. 760-834-3800.
Indio Heirloom Craft Kitchen Happy hour available Tuesday-Friday from 3 to 5:30 p.m. 49990 Jefferson. 760-773-2233. Jackalope Ranch Happy hour, MondaySunday from 3 to 6 p.m. 80400 Highway 111. 760-342-1999. June Hill’s Table Wednesday-Saturday, 2 to 5 p.m. 51750 Polo Club Drive. 760-797-7229 Neil’s Lounge Daily happy hour, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. 80956 Highway 111, Indio. 760-347-1522. Steers Bar & Grill Daily happy hour, 3 to 7 p.m. 82347 Highway 111. 442-324-2880. Pueblo Viejo Grill Daily happy hour at the bar from 3 to 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. to closing. 81931 Highway 111, 760-342-5900.
La Quinta The Grill on Main Daily happy hour, 3 to 6 p.m. Special $4 tacos on Tuesday, 3 to 7 p.m. 78065 Main Street. 760-777-7773. RD RNNR Libations, Pints & Plates Daily happy hour from 2 to 6 p.m. in Steve’s Bar. 78085 Avenida La Fonda. 760-564-8744. Landmark Enjoy $2 off great food and a full bar selection including premium wine, liquors and beer. Daily happy hour from 3 to 6 p.m. 78100 Main Street. 760-600-0758.
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It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere Outstanding happy hours
LQ Brewing Co. “Hoppy” hours, MondayFriday from 3 to 6 p.m. 78065 Main Street. 760-972-4251.
Pacifica Seafood Restaurant Daily happy hour, 3 to 6:30 p.m. All day Wednesday and Sunday. 73505 El Paseo. 760-674-8666.
Stuft Pizza Bar & Grill Happy hour specials Monday-Saturday, 3 to 6 p.m. 78015 Main Street, suite 100. 760-777-9989.
Piero’s PizzaVino Daily happy hour, 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. High-top tables and bar only. 73722 El Paseo. 760-568-2525.
Palm Desert AC3 Restaurant + Bar Daily happy hour, 3 to 6 p.m. 45350 Larkspur Lane. 760-340-6069.
Ruth’s Chris Steak House Serving happy hour Monday-Friday and Sunday from 4 to 6 p.m. 74740 Highway 111. 760-779-1998.
Fresh Agave Mexican Bar and Grill Daily happy hour in the bar from 3 to 5 p.m. 73325 Highway 111. 760-836-9028.
Sullivan’s Steakhouse Monday-Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, 3 to 6 p.m. Thursday and Sunday, 3 p.m. to close 73505 El Paseo, Suite 2600. 760-341-3560.
Libation Room Weekday happy hour, 6 to 8 p.m. and 5 to 8 p.m. on weekends. 73750 El Paseo, Palm Desert. 877-869-8891.
Tommy Bahama Daily happy hour from 3 to 6 p.m. 73595 El Paseo. 760-836-0288.
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Palm Springs Al dente Happy hour special, daily from 3 to 6 p.m. 491 N. Palm Canyon Drive. 760-325-1160. Bootlegger Tiki Happy hour, Monday-Sunday from 4-6 p.m. to midnight to 2 a.m. 1101 N Palm Canyon Drive. 760-318-4154. Copley’s Happy hour Sunday-Thursday, 5:30 to 7 p.m. 621 North Palm Canyon Drive. 760-327-9555. Del Rey Daily happy hour, 4 to 6 p.m. and 10 p.m. to close. 1620 S. Indian Trail. 760-327-2314. Draughtsman Daily happy hour, 3 to 6 p.m. 1501 North Palm Canyon Drive. 760-507-1644. Las Casuelas Terraza Happy hour MondayFriday from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. 222 South Palm Canyon Drive. 760-325-2794. Lulu California Bistro Daily happy hour from 11 a.m. to close. 200 South Palm Canyon Drive. 760-327-5858. Oscar’s Happy hour Monday-Saturday, 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday-Sunday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. 125 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way. 760-325-1188.
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Revel Public House Daily happy hour, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. to close. 140 South Palm Canyon Drive. 760-325-9464. Ruben and Ozzy’s Oyster Bar & Grill Late night happy hour from 9 p.m. to close. 214 East Tahquitz Canyon Way. 760-325-8800. Rick’s Desert Grill Daily happy hour from 3 to 7 p.m., Monday-Friday. 1596 North Palm Canyon Drive. 760-325-2127. Shanghai Reds Bar & Grill Monday-Friday, 4 to 6 p.m. 8 p.m. to close; all day Sunday. 235 South Indian Canyon Drive. 760-322-9293. The Tropicale Everyday happy hour, 4 to 7 p.m. Wednesdays, 4 p.m. to close. 330 East Amado Road. 760-866-1952. Truss and Twine Daily happy hour, 4 to 6 p.m. 800 N. Palm Canyon Drive. 760-699-7294. Trio Restaurant Daily happy hour from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. 707 North Palm Canyon Drive. 760-864-8746.
Rancho Mirage 360 Sports Daily happy hour from 4 to 6 p.m. Agua Caliente Casino Rancho Mirage, 32250 Bob Hope Drive. 888-999-1995. Acqua California Bistro Daily happy hour from 11 a.m. to close. 71800 Highway 111. 760-862-9800. Catalan Mediterranean Restaurant Daily happy hour, all night long in the bar. 70026 Highway 111. 760-770-9508. Bernie’s Lounge and Supper Club Daily happy hour all night long. 69830 Highway 111. 760-202-4499. Babe’s Bar-B-Que & Brewery Happy hour, Monday-Friday from 3 to 6 p.m. in the bar only. The River, 71800 Highway 111. 760-3468738. Las Casuelas Nuevas Daily happy hour from 4 to 6 p.m. 70050 Highway 111. 760-328-8844.
Village Pub Daily happy hour, 3 to 9 p.m. at the bar and tables. 266 S. Palm Canyon Drive. 760-323-3265.
Roy’s Restaurant Daily happy hour from 3 to 7 p.m. 71959 Highway 111. 760-340-9044.
Woody’s Palm House Daily happy hour, 3 to 6 p.m. 450 S. Palm Canyon Dr. 760-230-0188.
Happy hour times and specials subject to change after press deadline. Please check with venue to confirm.
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OUTDOORS
Let’s hike
Places to stretch your legs Amboy Crater Formed of ash and cinders, the 250-foot-high Amboy Crater rises from one of the youngest volcanic fields in the United States. A hiking trail winds to the rim with rest stations along the way. If you make it to the top, you’ll see the breach where lava poured out over 24 square miles, creating a landscape of dried lava lakes, collapsed lava tubes and sinks, spatter cones and massive flows of basalt. This can be a dangerous area. Don’t venture out in the heat, bring a gallon of water per person per day, hike with a partner and always let someone know where you’re going and when you expect to be back. Crater Road eight miles off National Trails Highway. blm.gov/visit/amboy-crater Bear Creek Oasis Trail 8 miles in and out, with an elevation rise of 1,989 feet. Considered strenuous. From the Cove Oasis trailhead at the top of La Quinta Cove, follow Bear Creek Canyon to where the trail leaves the sandy wash. Follow the signs. Hikers on this trail enjoy the beautiful palm oasis at the end. Bump and Grind Trail 3 mile loop with an elevation rise of 523 feet. This trail is probably the most popular trail in the desert and frequented by exercisers who start behind Desert Crossings shopping center in Palm Desert. Clara Burgess Trail 4.4 miles round trip with an elevation of 1,339 feet. The trail is the only route to the summit of Murray Hill, a prominent conical peak just south of Palm Springs. It is best seen when heading south on Gene Autry Trail and, although it is only a couple miles to the peak, it is strenuous with a steep incline.
Visitors can enjoy fantastic views of the Joshua Tree National Park while hiking, camping or exploring the town. Only a 45 minute drive from Palm Springs to a unique environment and community. Our readers will love your quaint shops, your welcoming hospitality and great restaurants.
Eisenhower Peak Loop 6 mile loop with an elevation gain of 700 feet. This trail is considered moderate and is part of the Living Desert preserve (admission fee required) in Palm Desert. The trail begins at the Eastern edge of the Living Desert and takes hikers toward Eisenhower Peak. The trail is a good representation of desert terrain and makes a perfect beginning to a Living Desert tour. Giant Rock The largest freestanding boulder in the Mojave Desert, Giant Rock covers 5,800 square feet of ground and stands seven stories high off the ground at its highest point. Native Americans once considered it sacred, and in the 1930s German immigrant Frank Critzer dug a space under the rock to live in. One of Critzer’s friends later said he was contacted by aliens there. Today, the rock is a popular tourist destination and a photo opportunity for visitors from across the globe. Past Belfield Boulevard in Landers Joshua Tree National Park Characterized by its huge rock formations and immense Joshua tree forest, the national park lies where the Mojave Desert meets the low Colorado Desert. Hike through the trails that weave through the Hidden Valley, travel to Keys View and look out over the Coachella Valley or bring your rock climbing equipment and scale some of the most interesting geological formations in the California desert. nps.gov/jotr Lake Cahuilla Just six miles from Old Town La Quinta, the 710-acre park at the foothills of the Santa Rosa Mountains offers a great outdoor family day with hiking, coupled with a host of recreational selections ranging from shore fishing to horseback riding. Museum Trail 2 miles round trip with an elevation change of around 1,000 feet. This hike is quite strenuous because of the rapid incline. The trailhead is just behind the museum off Palm Canyon Drive in Downtown Palm Springs. Turn around at the picnic tables. Randall Henderson Trail 2.4 mile loop with a gently rising elevation change of 423 feet. This easy trail offers a good introduction to desert hiking for the novice. It starts and ends at the National Monument Visitor Center in Palm Desert on Highway 74. Check the Visitor Center for guided hikes during the winter season. South Lykken Trail 4.4 miles with an elevation of just over 1,000 feet. This is considered strenuous and the north end of the trail starts at the west end of Mesquite Road, just south of downtown Palm Springs off South Palm Canyon Drive. There is no parking at the trailhead, but street parking is available. The hike is pretty strenuous for the first mile or so and then it levels off and one gets a great view of the Indian Canyons golf courses and South Palm Canyon communities. It is a beautiful hike and ends along South Palm Canyon Drive towards Indian Canyon. You will need to have vehicles at both ends.
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