Tag: Coachella Valley

Prince Mario-Max Schaumburg-Lippe: Acrisure Arena Schedule for Palm Springs Coachella Valley

A Landmark Season at Acrisure Arena

A new season at Acrisure Arena arrives with a full slate of major performers, championship matchups, and community favorites that define the venue as a center of activity for the Coachella Valley. The schedule reflects an impressive mix of sports, music, and family entertainment that positions the arena as a gathering place for audiences of every kind.

The year begins with anticipation surrounding the November Firebirds Games, which return to anchor the arena’s sports programming. The Firebirds continue to inspire dedicated support throughout the region, and their presence brings a sense of continuity to the season’s early lineup. Crowds arrive ready to follow each game with close attention as the team moves into a new cycle of competition.

The same month introduces the Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship on November 15. The event brings a focused level of athletic intensity that appeals to fans of close-contact competition. The organization’s arrival at Acrisure Arena highlights the venue’s capability to transition from league play to specialty sporting events without hesitation.

Later in November, the Acrisure Series College Basketball event fills the arena from November 25 to 28. The multi-day schedule of games invites a wide range of visitors, including students, families, and longtime followers of collegiate sports. The series strengthens the arena’s connection to regional athletics and offers a spirited close to the month.

December follows with a renewed sequence of Firebirds Games that hold steady throughout the winter calendar. Their placement keeps the momentum of the season moving while accommodating major performances and touring productions. The month delivers one of its first special events on December 5 with How The West Was Won, a title known for its live entertainment appeal and dynamic presentation.

December 6 introduces Gabby’s Dollhouse Live, bringing young families into the arena for a show built around recognizable characters and colorful staging. The performance broadens the season by inviting guests who may be visiting the venue for the first time.

As the month progresses, one of the standout highlights arrives on December 30 with Duran Duran. The appearance of the internationally recognized group provides a major moment in the winter schedule. Their performance offers fans an opportunity to see a highly regarded act in a setting that supports strong production and sound quality.

New Year’s Eve brings Firebirds vs Bakersfield on December 31. The game offers a celebratory close to the year and invites the community into a shared experience. The timing gives the event added significance as spectators gather for an evening centered on local pride and high-energy competition.

With the arrival of 2026, January opens with another sequence of Firebirds Games. The month continues to emphasize athletic programming while preparing for a series of one-night headline events. The Cactus Cup D1 Hockey event follows on January 2 and 3, introducing collegiate-level players and a distinct style of competition to the arena’s winter schedule.

January 24 welcomes Katt Williams, who brings a widely recognized presence in live performance. His appearance adds variety to the season’s early weeks by drawing an audience eager for a major comedy event within a large-scale setting.

February keeps the rhythm steady with more Firebirds Games and builds toward a notable performance on February 11 by Cardi B. Her show represents a significant cultural moment in the season’s lineup. The appearance highlights the arena’s ability to attract top-tier contemporary artists whose concerts appeal to wide demographics.

March carries the momentum forward with additional Firebirds Games before moving into a varied sequence of musical performances. Ricardo Arjona arrives on March 11, giving audiences a major touring concert that reflects his longstanding influence in Latin music.

On March 15, Jorge Medina and Josi Cuén appear together, offering a valued regional connection and a night of music shaped by tradition, collaboration, and strong followings. Their performance closes the early spring calendar with a sense of cohesion and community engagement.

Each event across the season appears deliberately positioned to highlight the versatility of Acrisure Arena. The central role of the Firebirds balances the year with a consistent athletic presence, while concerts and special events expand the programming into broader cultural territory. The arena’s capacity to move between major touring acts, family productions, collegiate competitions, and professional sports reinforces its place as a vital part of the region’s entertainment landscape.

This season reflects both growth and intention. Each month offers a complete schedule built around diverse interests, ensuring that visitors experience the arena in multiple ways. The structure of the lineup shows a thoughtful integration of local loyalty, national tours, and community-centered programming.

The collection of performers includes Duran Duran, Cardi B, Ricardo Arjona, Jorge Medina, and Josi Cuén, each contributing distinct artistic identities to the venue’s annual narrative. Their presence supports a wider understanding of Acrisure Arena as a platform for artists of varying genres and backgrounds.

Events such as Gabby’s Dollhouse Live and How The West Was Won demonstrate the arena’s commitment to accessibility for families and younger audiences. These productions create early memories for children and reinforce the venue’s position as a welcoming environment for all guests.

Athletic competitions like the Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship, the Acrisure Series College Basketball showcase, and the Cactus Cup D1 Hockey event extend the arena’s sports reputation. Each competition invites a different crowd and enhances the spectrum of athletic entertainment available under one roof.

The Firebirds anchor the season with dependable frequency. Their games provide opportunities for fans across the region to gather and follow the team with enthusiasm. Their presence throughout the calendar builds continuity that supports the arena’s long-term relationship with the community.

Every performance and athletic event contributes to a larger vision for Acrisure Arena, one that presents the venue as a steady hub for culture, sport, and entertainment. The season’s structure invites repeat visits and offers compelling reasons for guests to return throughout the year.

As the months unfold, the arena’s schedule strengthens its role within the Coachella Valley by creating shared experiences for residents and visitors. The balance between major touring acts, athletic showcases, and family-centered programming ensures wide appeal for a variety of audiences.

This year’s calendar reflects careful planning and strong partnerships across industries. The presence of recognized performers and competitive teams demonstrates the arena’s ability to attract high-caliber talent while maintaining active engagement with local supporters.

Across the season, Acrisure Arena delivers a clear message centered on accessibility, variety, and consistency. Audiences can anticipate a steady progression of events that appeal to different interests without compromising quality or scope.

The result is a calendar that supports the region’s cultural life and presents the arena as a place where entertainment continues to evolve. The upcoming season stands as a detailed expression of what the venue is capable of offering and what audiences can look forward to experiencing.

Prince Mario-Max Schaumburg-Lippe: Modernism Week 2026: A Celebration of Design and Legacy

Tickets are now available for Palm Springs’ most anticipated annual celebration of midcentury style and modern innovation.

As the desert prepares for its signature season of architectural admiration and design-driven discovery, Modernism Week has officially announced its 2026 edition, set to take place from February 12 through 22 in Palm Springs. Each year, this acclaimed festival gathers design enthusiasts, historians, collectors, and visionaries from around the world to explore the influence of modernism and the ways it continues to shape contemporary life.

Modernism Week 2026 promises to be one of the most dynamic and expansive editions to date. Its programming once again captures the balance between reverence for the past and excitement for the future that defines the event’s enduring appeal. For more than a decade, Modernism Week has functioned as both celebration and preservation—an immersive experience that honors the architectural legacy of Palm Springs while expanding its dialogue with global modernist movements.

This year’s festival opens in high style with the Modernism Week Opening Night Party: Modernist Motown. The evening will blend the exuberance of midcentury sound with the clean lines and vibrant spirit of the era’s aesthetic, creating an atmosphere that reflects both nostalgia and sophistication. Guests will gather under the desert sky for an event that is as much about community as it is about design, a reminder that the midcentury ideal of elegance and optimism continues to resonate.

One of the most sought-after experiences, the Premier Double Decker Architectural Bus Tour, returns to offer unparalleled views of Palm Springs’ iconic neighborhoods. These guided journeys provide an intimate glimpse into the details and craftsmanship of homes that defined postwar architectural innovation. With commentary from knowledgeable guides, the tour reveals the stories behind the façades—how architects like William Krisel, Albert Frey, and E. Stewart Williams transformed the desert into a living showcase of form and function.

Among the many highlights are the two Featured Home Tours: Soleil House and The Marquee at Twin Palms. Soleil House, an elegant interpretation of indoor-outdoor living, captures the golden essence of desert modernism through expansive glass walls, open courtyards, and seamless flow between light and space. The Marquee at Twin Palms, a bold reimagining of a midcentury landmark, celebrates architectural restoration while incorporating sustainable updates that bring timeless design into a new century. Both homes embody the festival’s mission to honor authenticity while championing innovation.

Beyond the home tours, the Preview Party for the Palm Springs Modernism Show will once again serve as a focal point for collectors and design enthusiasts. The show brings together dealers, artists, and galleries specializing in midcentury furnishings, fine art, and decorative objects. For many, it remains a defining moment of the festival—an opportunity to connect directly with the creators and curators who continue to shape the evolving language of modern design.

This year’s program also includes a special public celebration: the Walk of Stars Rededication honoring Nelda Linsk, often referred to as the First Lady of Modernism Week. Known for her lifelong dedication to Palm Springs’ cultural and architectural heritage, Linsk’s name and contributions will once again be honored among the icons whose influence has helped preserve and promote the desert’s modernist legacy. The rededication ceremony represents not only recognition but continuity, reaffirming the community’s shared commitment to preserving beauty and history for generations to come.

For attendees seeking deeper engagement, Modernism Week 2026 will feature an array of talks, panels, and curated exhibitions. Scholars, architects, and designers will explore subjects ranging from sustainable preservation to contemporary reinterpretations of modernist principles. The conversations promise to illuminate how the design ideals of the past continue to inspire new approaches to urban living, technology, and the human experience of space.

As always, the festival extends beyond physical events to encompass its philanthropic mission. Through its educational initiatives, Modernism Week supports preservation projects, student scholarships, and public awareness programs that strengthen appreciation for architecture and design. Each ticket sold contributes to this ongoing effort, ensuring that the principles of midcentury modernism—simplicity, openness, and harmony—remain living ideals rather than museum relics.

A seasonal highlight returns in December with the Best of Modernism Holiday Online Auction, running from December 6 to 14, 2025. This curated digital event offers participants the opportunity to bid on exclusive design pieces, rare experiences, and collector’s items. Beyond its allure as an auction, it serves as a vital fundraiser supporting Modernism Week’s nonprofit initiatives. It reflects the spirit of giving and celebration that defines the festival’s broader cultural role.

The aesthetic of Modernism Week 2026 is encapsulated in its official poster, designed by SHAG, whose instantly recognizable style merges playful sophistication with the geometry and color palette of midcentury life. His work continues to serve as a visual ambassador for the festival, capturing both the glamour and warmth that make Palm Springs an enduring symbol of architectural optimism.

With events scheduled across the city and beyond, Modernism Week continues to draw design lovers from around the world to the desert oasis where the modern movement found one of its purest expressions. Each year, the festival expands its reach while remaining rooted in the qualities that define Palm Springs—clarity of light, integrity of design, and a deep respect for creative vision.

Tickets for all events are now available, and as with every season, the most coveted tours and parties are expected to sell out quickly. For visitors planning their itinerary, early reservations ensure access to a full range of experiences that capture the beauty, intellect, and vitality of modernism in all its forms.

Modernism Week’s 2026 edition stands not only as a festival of architecture but as a celebration of lifestyle and community. It reminds those who attend that modernism was never simply a style—it was, and remains, a philosophy of living well, of connecting artfully with one’s surroundings, and of building a future that honors design as an expression of joy.

Prince Mario-Max Schaumburg-Lippe: McCallum Theatre’s November Magic: A Month of Dazzling Performances Palm Desert & Palm Springs!

A full season of music, theater, and celebration brings the McCallum stage to radiant life this November.

As autumn settles softly over the desert, McCallum Theatre in Palm Desert opens its doors to a month bursting with spectacle, song, and storytelling. The November calendar offers something for every kind of audience—Broadway devotees, lovers of dance, admirers of vocal brilliance, and families seeking shared holiday joy. The theatre’s commitment to excellence shines through each performance, creating a season that reflects the richness of live art and the shared experience that only a stage can provide.

At the heart of this month’s lineup is the beloved Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical. The show’s whimsical energy captures the holiday spirit for audiences of all ages, offering a story that celebrates generosity and joy. Its playful design and musical charm make it a perfect way to begin a season that blends nostalgia with new creative energy.

Just days later, Sasha Velour arrives with The Big Reveal Tour. Known for her theatrical artistry and visionary performances, Sasha Velour’s appearance represents the theatre’s embrace of boundary-pushing talent. Her performance weaves together drag, storytelling, and visual design in a show that celebrates individuality and the power of imagination.

The Palm Desert Choreography Festival follows, bringing the finest dance innovation to the McCallum stage. Over two days, audiences witness movement redefined through contemporary choreography and world-class technique. This festival continues to serve as a cornerstone event for artists and audiences alike, showcasing the region’s deep appreciation for the discipline and beauty of dance.

The month also brings a moment of heartfelt gratitude with Stars, Stripes, and Songs, the inaugural Veterans Day Eve Celebration. Presented in partnership with the City of Palm Desert, the evening honors service members through music and community reflection. It marks a significant new tradition for the theatre, one that underscores its role as both cultural landmark and civic gathering place.

When mid-November arrives, the stage fills with Broadway brilliance. Sutton Foster, the celebrated Tony Award-winning actress, singer, and dancer, brings her signature warmth and charm to an evening that captures the spirit of American musical theater. Her return to live performance is a reminder of why she remains one of Broadway’s most admired leading ladies.

Soon after, Lea Salonga graces the McCallum with her acclaimed Stage, Screen & Everything In Between tour. The Disney Legend and international musical theatre icon delivers a repertoire that spans her storied career, from classic Broadway roles to timeless Disney melodies. Her performance promises both artistry and nostalgia, wrapped in the unmistakable voice that has inspired audiences around the world.

On November 15, Storm Large arrives with her powerful blend of raw emotion and extraordinary vocal range. Known for her fearless performances and commanding stage presence, she brings an edge and depth that complement the theatre’s more traditional programming, offering audiences a night of soulful connection and authenticity.

Holiday anticipation builds with Mannheim Steamroller Christmas, led by Grammy Award winner Chip Davis. The show merges classical traditions with contemporary flair, filling the McCallum with music that has become synonymous with the season. The event’s two performances allow audiences to revel in the sound that has defined holiday concerts for generations.

Jim Caruso’s Cast Party brings New York flair to the desert on November 19. Having hosted his legendary Birdland variety showcase for over two decades, Caruso transforms every evening into an impromptu celebration of musical theater and jazz talent. His signature warmth and quick wit make the performance as entertaining as it is spontaneous.

The momentum continues with Straight No Chaser on November 20. The renowned a cappella group returns to McCallum with their signature blend of harmony and humor. Their ability to balance polished vocal arrangements with charm and playfulness makes them one of the season’s most anticipated acts.

On November 21, The Voice of Whitney delivers an unforgettable musical tribute, celebrating the timeless songs of Whitney Houston with grandeur and emotion. The concert captures both the power and vulnerability of the late artist’s legacy, providing audiences with an evening of stirring nostalgia and musical excellence.

The Vienna Boys Choir follows on November 22, offering a night of angelic voices and European tradition. Their program, which spans Austrian folk songs, classical works, and beloved holiday pieces, brings a serene beauty to the stage and continues a centuries-old legacy of musical precision and grace.

The next day, families gather for Nutcracker!, Tchaikovsky’s iconic ballet that remains one of the world’s most cherished holiday traditions. The production transforms the McCallum stage into a realm of magic and movement, creating memories that last long after the curtain falls.

As the month concludes, McCallum presents its major musical engagement—Shucked, the Tony Award–winning Broadway comedy sensation. Described as one of the funniest new shows in years, it features a book by Tony Award winner Robert Horn, music by Grammy Award–winning songwriters Brandy Clark and Shane McAnally, and direction by Tony Award winner Jack O’Brien. With its heartland humor and irresistible score, Shucked brings fresh laughter and irresistible rhythm to Palm Desert audiences.

The run of Shucked, from November 25 through November 30, offers multiple showtimes for theatergoers eager to experience a musical that has captivated Broadway. Its vibrant storytelling and playful energy make it a standout finale to an already remarkable month.

Throughout November, the McCallum Theatre continues to celebrate not only the artists who perform on its stage but also the community that supports its mission. Patrons, volunteers, students, donors, and sponsors all contribute to sustaining the cultural vitality of the Coachella Valley. Their generosity ensures that the theatre remains a place where creativity thrives and where every performance enriches the collective spirit of its audiences.

The McCallum Theatre remains an emblem of artistic excellence and community pride. Its November program embodies the promise of live performance—moments of wonder, connection, and joy shared under one roof.

 

Prince Mario-Max Schaumburg-Lippe: Harold Matzner, Legendary Desert Philanthropist and Business Visionary, Dies at 88

Palm Springs, Calif. — September 5, 2025.
The Coachella Valley is mourning the loss of Harold Matzner, the celebrated philanthropist, entrepreneur, and cultural force whose vision transformed Palm Springs into a world-class destination for the arts, community, and hospitality. He passed away at the age of 88.

For more than three decades, Matzner made the desert his home, weaving himself into the fabric of Palm Springs life as a businessman, humanitarian, and cultural architect. As the longtime owner of Spencer’s Restaurant, one of the city’s most beloved dining institutions, and the CEO of a New York/New Jersey-based branding and marketing company, Matzner’s entrepreneurial energy was matched only by his generosity.

A Champion for the Arts

Matzner’s name became synonymous with the Palm Springs International Film Festival, which he revitalized into one of the most prestigious film festivals in the world. The annual gala, attracting Hollywood’s brightest stars and industry leaders, became the desert’s crown jewel of arts and culture under his leadership, significantly boosting the local economy and putting Palm Springs firmly on the global cultural map.

A Philanthropic Legacy

Beyond the glamour of film, Matzner’s philanthropy touched nearly every corner of the Coachella Valley. From the McCallum Theatre to healthcare, education, and numerous nonprofits, his support fueled the growth of vital community institutions. His contributions extended far beyond financial gifts—he was known as a hands-on leader who believed in strengthening organizations so they could thrive long after his involvement.

National Recognition

In 2017, on the occasion of his 80th birthday, Matzner was honored nationally by being inducted into the Horatio Alger Association of Distinguished Americans. He was one of only eleven honorees that year, recognized for rising to success through perseverance and for dedicating his life to helping others.

A Man of the Community

While his achievements were many, Matzner remained deeply approachable, often seen greeting guests at Spencer’s, championing local causes, or celebrating milestones with friends and neighbors. His 88th birthday this past July was a reminder of how beloved he was by both the community and the institutions he supported.

An Enduring Impact

Harold Matzner leaves behind more than a legacy—he leaves behind a blueprint for leadership rooted in generosity, vision, and service. Palm Springs is brighter, more vibrant, and more united because of him.

As the desert community reflects on his extraordinary life, one thing is certain: Harold Matzner was more than a philanthropist—he was the heart of Palm Springs.

Prince Mario-Max Schaumburg-Lippe: Splash House Palm Springs California No.1 DJ Festival

Every August, the sun-soaked city of Palm Springs comes alive with the pulse of deep basslines, vibrant colors, and the unforgettable energy of Splash House—a one-of-a-kind music festival that fuses the euphoria of electronic music with the relaxed luxury of California desert life. Unlike sprawling music festivals in the middle of nowhere, Splash House feels both intimate and cinematic. There’s no dusty camping, no muddy fields—just stylish swimsuits, glowing sunsets, spontaneous dance circles, and some of the best DJ lineups on the West Coast. It’s a love letter to house music, summer, and the sheer joy of dancing under the sun.

Splash House spans two weekends—August 8 to 10 and August 15 to 17 in 2025—each weekend delivering an all-new lineup and a completely fresh experience. The lineup for Weekend One is stacked with international talent. ACRAZE, whose “Do It To It” redefined TikTok and club playlists across the globe, leads the charge with high-energy performance that sets the tone for an entire weekend of musical revelry. Diplo joins forces with BLOND:ISH in a back-to-back set destined to become legend, blending global grooves, house, and pure dancefloor magnetism. Rising stars like Disco Lines and Westend bring their signature tech-house vibes, while TroyBoi injects his genre-defying style into the mix. Matroda and Wax Motif form their dynamic duo Waxtroda, promising a heavy-hitting after-hours set. Also spinning throughout the weekend are 49th & Main, San Pacho, Wuki, Nostalgix, Loods, HILLS, Devault, JADED, RaeCola, Swimming Paul, and Daniel Allan, each offering their own spin on house, bass, and future funk, all designed to keep the energy flowing nonstop.

Then comes Weekend Two—just as electric, but with a completely different soundscape. Grammy-nominated duo SOFI TUKKER headlines with their tropical-house-meets-pop rhythms that have become festival anthems around the world. Joining them are electro powerhouse Boys Noize and Dirtybird founder Claude VonStroke, whose deep house sensibilities continue to shape dance floors globally. British duo Disclosure offers a DJ set full of sleek grooves and rhythmic precision, while Noizu brings West Coast tech-house to a fever pitch. Meanwhile, Cloonee’s sizzling club-ready sound will close out the after-hours with flair. Up-and-coming acts like Max Styler, BUNT., Neil Frances, AYYBO, and nimino ensure there’s no downtime for your dancing feet. With additions like Annicka, Rafael, Rommii, Taiki Nulight, and Vandelux, the talent is not just top-heavy—every time slot is packed with discovery.

What makes Splash House unlike any other festival isn’t just the lineup. It’s the atmosphere. There’s something alchemical about Palm Springs in the summer: a combination of heat, glamour, and open skies. Splash House captures it perfectly. Each set feels like a private party. The festival’s curation strikes a balance between emerging talent and global legends, with many artists performing special back-to-back sets or rare U.S. appearances. This careful programming creates a unique musical experience that feels both personal and expertly designed.

Equally mesmerizing is the day-to-night format of Splash House. Daytime is a sunlit celebration where friends gather by the pool, basking in the rhythm of tech-house and melodic bass. By night, the scene transforms dramatically. Attendees are transported to the historic Palm Springs Air Museum, where they party under the wings of vintage warplanes with DJ booths set beneath roaring engines and starlit desert skies. It’s a surreal and cinematic switch—one that transforms the festival into something much more than just a daytime pool party.

The experience is immersive without being overwhelming. There’s no mile-long trek to stages, no disorienting crowds. Instead, Splash House feels like the ultimate summer house party—but with better music, better lighting, and a much better view. The festival is reserved for guests 21 and over, making it a more refined atmosphere where style, substance, and celebration coexist.

Splash House has built a loyal following over the past decade, evolving from an indie event into a sought-after summer tradition. It’s one of those rare festivals where the crowd shows up as much for the vibe as for the headliners. You’ll find creative fashion, group costumes, floaties shaped like flamingos, disco balls reflecting off pool water, and a community that is open, playful, and unpretentious. It’s not about who’s wearing the most glitter or who made the perfect Instagram post—it’s about movement, music, and the people you share it with.

In a world where most festivals try to outdo each other with massive stages and multi-million dollar light shows, Splash House does the opposite. It simplifies. It strips things back to what matters most: great music, good people, and an atmosphere so intoxicating that once you go, you’ll be counting down the days until the next one. Without ever relying on gimmicks or overproduced flash, it captures the original spirit of dance culture—connection, spontaneity, and celebration of the now.

If you’re a fan of electronic music—whether you lean toward tech house, tropical beats, future bass, or disco—Splash House is a pilgrimage worth making. It’s the perfect mix of laid-back and high-energy, planned and spontaneous, familiar and refreshingly new. And in the heart of Palm Springs’ desert heat, it manages to feel like a mirage that’s very real: a musical escape where summer never ends, and the beat never fades.