City, Black History Committee unveil 2026 Black History Month celebration events
The series began over this past weekend with a Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. commemoration and continues through Feb. 28 with a parade and town fair in Downtown Palm Springs.
The City of Palm Springs and the Palm Springs Black History Committee will present a series of events honoring African American culture, achievements and contributions during Black History Month 2026.
The events are designed to inspire unity, reflection and cultural pride for residents and visitors of all ages, covering topics from music and education to celebration and community recognition.
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The celebration kicked off Sunday with the annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Commemoration Celebration in Palm Springs at United Methodist Church. The free event featured inspiring speakers, live performances and messages of unity, service and hope.
On Jan. 25 from 2 to 4 p.m., Gospel Fest will take place at Word of Life Fellowship Center, 64565 Pierson Blvd., Desert Hot Springs. The free event will bring together local choirs, soloists and musicians to celebrate through gospel music.
Black History Nights at the Museum will be held every Thursday from Feb. 5 through Feb. 26 during evening museum hours at Palm Springs Art Museum, 101 Museum Drive. The free sessions will highlight art, stories and achievements that have shaped Black history locally and nationally.
The Demuth Community Center, 3401 East Mesquite Ave., will host a Black history painting event on Feb. 6 from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. The free event requires registration and all materials will be provided.
The Palm Springs Black History Annual Awards Gala takes place Feb. 7 at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, 67967 Vista Chino, in Cathedral City. A cocktail hour begins at 6 p.m., with the awards ceremony running from 7 to 10 p.m. Tickets, which are available here, cost $125 before Jan. 30 and $150 at the door. Each ticket includes a three-course meal, live entertainment and an evening recognizing community leaders and organizations that have made a lasting impact.
On Feb. 16 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., the Palm Springs Black History Chartered Bus Tour will depart from James O. Jessie Desert Highland Unity Center, 480 West Tramview Rd. Led by local guides, the tour will highlight Black pioneers, historic neighborhoods, churches and influential figures who shaped the city, including Lawrence Crossley and architect Paul R. Williams.
The celebration concludes Feb. 28 with the Palm Springs Black History Committee Annual Black History Parade and Town Fair in Downtown Palm Springs. The parade begins at 11 a.m., with the town fair following in the Downtown Park. The free, family-friendly event will feature live entertainment, community vendors, food, music and activities for all ages.
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