13-22 FEBRUARY — Riverside County Fair and National Date Festival
Celebrate the tradition of good old-fashioned fair food, where offerings range from deep fried to barbecued. Be sure to try one of the famous date shakes. 10 a.m.–10 p.m.
Riverside County Fairgrounds
82503 Hwy. 111, Indio
800-811-3247; www.datefest.org
28 FEBRUARY — Rhythm, Wine & Brews
Experience Pour a glass of fine beer or wine while taking in the sounds of live music. Hosted at the well-known Empire Polo Club, attendees are offered an impressive variety of taste samples to please the palate. 3–11 p.m.
Empire Polo Club
81800 Ave. 51, Indio
www.rwbexp.com
12 MARCH — Brew at the Zoo
Relax with a cold one at an event that offers tastings from some of the most stellar craft brews around. Sure to satisfy every thirst and taste bud, a selection of wines, appetizers, and desserts are also available to enjoy. 6:30 p.m.
The Living Desert Zoo & Botanical Garden
47900 Portola Ave., Palm Desert
760-346-5694; www.livingdesert.org
27-29 MARCH — Food + Wine Festival Palm Desert
Experience a food and wine extravaganza at a festival that brings together more than 20 celebrity chefs and tastings from more than 50 fine restaurants and culinary brands. Savor gourmet meals accompanied by premium Champagne and wine pairings. Call for times.
The Tents
45380 Larkspur Ln., Palm Desert
760-325-2333; www.palmdesertfoodandwine.com
2 MAY — Salsa Blast
Turn up the heat and enjoy a variety of hot food and savory spices at this second annual international salsa festival. Taste dozens of different salsas — from mild to wild — dished up by local restaurants and vendors. Noon–5 p.m.
Palm Dr. and Pierson Blvd., Desert Hot Springs
760-329-6403; www.salsablast.com
29 MAY– 2 JUNE — Palm Springs Desert Resorts Restaurant Week
Explore diverse cuisine and signature dishes at more than 100 participating restaurants. This 10-day event showcases some of the best dining the valley has to offer.
760-322-8008; www.palmspringsrestaurantweek.com
5-6 DECEMBER — Tamale Festival
Chow down on tempting dishes at a festival that features every kind of tamale imaginable. Stop by for one of these Southwest delights at this premier destination for foodies across the country. 10 a.m.–6 p.m.
Old Town Indio
760-832-8620, ext. 43; www.tamalefestival.net