Palm Spring Tree Lighting And Festival Of Lights Are This Weekend

PALM SPRINGS, CA — Palm Springs kicks off the Christmas celebrations this weekend, a return to a beloved holiday tradition after a year off because of the coronavirus.

The official holiday tree lighting is Friday evening at 5:15 p.m. in Frances Steven Park, the city said. Before the lighting, the annual Holiday Banner Student Awards will be at 4 p.m. with cookies, hot cocoa, and activities for kids at 6 p.m. following the lighting.

The Palm Springs Festival of Lights Parade is Saturday on Palm Canyon Drive, the city announced. Festivities begin at 5:45 p.m. The parade will feature floats, marching bands, holiday balloons, and Santa Claus. This year, the Community Grand Marshals are Mariah Hanson, founder of Dinah Shore Weekend and Linda Barrack, CEO of Martha’s Village and Kitchen, the city said. The parade will be broadcast on NBC Palm Springs, beginning at 6 p.m.