Palm Springs is again the place to be (and be seen) this fall with the return of Splash House and GoldenVoice’s music and experience-oriented festival, Desert Air. After a hiatus since 2021, the festival returns to one of the most unique music venues. Surrounded by historic aircraft and hangars, with a backdrop of the San Jacinto Mountains and desert landscape, Desert Air will again be held at The Palm Springs Air Museum. This year’s event promises to be an unforgettable experience, featuring a lineup of headliners like Jamie XX and Kaytrandada, house music on tap, thrilling warbird demonstrations, and a glimpse into aviation history.
Photo: Desert Air
This Travel-Themed Music Festival on an Airport Tarmac Is Like a Mini Coachella
Photo: Desert Air
Desert Air will take place over over two days: Friday, November 15, and Saturday, November 16. The Palm Springs Air Museum is ideally located next to Palm Springs International Airport, so it’s a convenient venue for those coming in from out of town. The festival has partnered with a decent range of hotels (Ace Hotel, Courtyard, and Homewood, to mention a few), and there’s a shuttle service (included in your festival pass) with pick-up and drop-off points at two locations in Palm Springs. Even if you’re considering a last-minute ticket, there are sure to be hotel rooms still available, and if you’re traveling with a group that would prefer a home base, there are some killer Airbnbs in the area — in part thanks to Coachella.
Traveling to Southern California? Check out Matador’s California accommodations guides:
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- These Are the Best Cannabis-Friendly Airbnbs in Los Angeles
- 9 dreamy oceanfront Airbnbs up and down the California coast
- 10 soulful beach Airbnbs for the perfect SoCal yoga retreat
The lineup is strong on both days, with one headliner, a special support act, and nine other artists. Joining Kaytranada will be SG Lewis and Tove Lo, Shygirl, and Polish rising star VTSS. Sammy Virji will back up Jamie XX on Saturday along with Australian Mall Grab, Ketboi69, and Irish artist Kettama.
But it’s not just about the music, there’s a lot of other activities on offer. The Air Museum showcases a collection of historic aircraft, including World War II fighters and bombers. Before the event, you can explore the museum’s galleries, attend educational programs, and even take a vintage warbird flight to get the best view of the desert landscape.
Photo: Desert Air
During the day, the event’s Layover Programming will include interactive exhibits, food trucks, merchandise vendors, and a pop-up vinyl record store. Your wristband also gives you access to Palm Springs Surf Club, where you can surf — or chill on the lazy river and use the resort-style amenities if that’s more your vibe.
Tickets to Desert Air are on sale now, and payment plans are available. Attendees must be 21 or older. 