10 Things to Do in Palm Springs Area This Weekend

What's on your agenda? Here's our suggestions for June 19-22

JIM POWERS Arts & Entertainment

 

PALM SPRINGS INTERNATIONAL SHORTFEST FILM FESTIVAL

Palm Springs Becomes Center of Film Universe Again
Even when compared to big brother, the Palm Springs International Film Festival in January, ShortFest is no stepchild. More than 300 films will be shown during ShortFest, which runs through June 23, and actors like Chiwetel Ejiofor and Taylor Kitsch will debut films as first-time directors. Read about Tom in America set to debut June 20.

FOR OPENERS

Hacienda Cantina & Beach Club Opens to the Public
After crossing the finish line in time to open for last weekend's Splash House, the Hacienda Cantina & Beach Club in Palm Springs (at right) opens to the public June 20 featuring DJ entertainment, a full dining menu, three bars, an outdoor pool, cabanas you can rent and more to come.

LIVE MUSIC

Free Friday Night Concerts at Spotlight 29
Starting June 20 and continuing throughout the summer, Spotlight 29 will host a free Friday Night concert series where tribute bands plays your favorites. The kick-off starts with an Eagles tribute band.

MAKE ME LAUGH

Christina Bianco Makes West Coast Debut
She got noticed on YouTube, and now Christina Bianco is making her way to the West Coast at the Copa in Palm Springs on June 21 after conquering the East Coast. She sings, but she also sings impressions of greats like Barbra Streisand, Adelle, Julie Andrews, Adele, Gwen Stefani, and even Britney Spears. Find out how she is handling her popularity.

The Wayans Brothers
This may be the funniest quartet from one family. You may have seen Keenan Ivory Wayans recently as a judge on Last Comic Standing. Joining him are brothers Damon, Shawn, and Marlon June 21 at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino in Indio.

FOR A GOOD CAUSE

Trevor Project Launches Inaugural Event in Palm Springs
It's a match made in heaven. With her big hair, sultry voice and Mad Men elegance, Lynda Kay looks like she should be living here. Her performance highlights the inaugural Trevor Project event June 21 at Escena Country Club in Palm Springs. The Trevor Project is a national organization that provides crisis and suicide prevention services for LGBTQ youth.

Sip, Munch to Benefit First Tee
The First Tee program introduces the game of golf to kids who would normally never be exposed to it. The organization has reached 9 million kids since 1997. Locally, the program relies on events like this one June 20 at Roy's Restaurant in Rancho Mirage to continue to make a difference. A $50 entry fee will get you wine, food bites, cocktails, and a chance to participate in a silent auction.

 

Up and Coming Fashionistas
See the next generation of fashion designers when the Riviera Palm Springs hosts the Art Institute of California-Inland Empire annual fashion show fundraiser and student competition June 21. The runway show will feature more than 50 looks created by current students. Proceeds assist with student scholarship programs..

 

SPEAKING OF WINE

Middle Ridge Winery Salutes Idyllwild Deer Art
Ardent art supporters in their hometown of Idyllwild, Melody and Chris Johnston are paying tribute to the Deer Sightings sculptures that popped up around the town last year with a wine debut featuring labels of the deers. Read more about Middle Ridge Winery.

ARTFUL TRIBUTE

Brian Marki Art Gallery Honors Late Mentor's Work
Brian Marki knew once he opened his own gallery in Palm Springs, he would be creating show space for his artistic mentor, Sandro Negri. See his paintings in a special Summer Open House June 20.

For more events, visit our comprehensive calendar.

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