College of the Desert Street Fair
A bustling weekend market in Palm Desert featuring artisan crafts, unique finds, and diverse food trucks.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds & find best items
College of the Desert Street Fair
Best Time
Beat the crowds & find best items
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A bustling weekend market in Palm Desert featuring artisan crafts, unique finds, and diverse food trucks.
"Definitely check it out! I enjoyed this market more than the Thursday night one downtown Palm Springs."
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking is free and plentiful just south of the venue. Keep right at the traffic circle upon entry for the best spots.
🛍️ Hunt for Local Artisans
Seek out vendors selling handmade jewelry, art, and unique crafts for truly special finds.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Artisan Crafts & Unique Finds
Vendor stalls throughout the fair
Discover handmade jewelry, art, home decor, and more from local and regional creators.
Diverse Food Truck Offerings
Designated food area
Savor a variety of affordable eats from food trucks, perfect for a casual weekend brunch.
Vintage & Mid-Century Treasures
Select vendor stalls
Hunt for retro finds, MCM pieces, and vintage vibes that capture the desert's unique style.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Weekend Market Magic
Discover Local Treasures
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking is free and plentiful just south of the venue. Keep right at the traffic circle upon entry for the best spots.
🛍️ Hunt for Local Artisans
Seek out vendors selling handmade jewelry, art, and unique crafts for truly special finds. 
💰 Affordable Food Options
Enjoy a wide variety of food trucks with budget-friendly prices for a satisfying meal.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of browsing, so comfortable shoes are a must for exploring the fair.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking is free and plentiful just south of the venue. Keep right at the traffic circle upon entry for the best spots.
🛍️ Hunt for Local Artisans
Seek out vendors selling handmade jewelry, art, and unique crafts for truly special finds.
💰 Affordable Food Options
Enjoy a wide variety of food trucks with budget-friendly prices for a satisfying meal.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of browsing, so comfortable shoes are a must for exploring the fair.
💧 Stay Hydrated
The desert sun can be intense, so bring water or be prepared to purchase it.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally find the College of the Desert Street Fair to be a vibrant and enjoyable weekend market with a good selection of products and affordable food options. While some note a prevalence of imported goods, many appreciate the presence of local artisans and the lively atmosphere. It's considered a worthwhile stop for unique finds and a casual culinary experience.
"Awesome selection of products. Also food area if u r hungry. I did not notice any washrooms. Public parking just south of the venue. I give it 9.5 golf balls out of 10."
Francis Gaston
"There wasn't anything unique about the street fair that differs from any other type of similar venue in any other city. A large number of the sellers were offering products made in China, India or other countries where cheap labor is in abundance. There were a few vendors who make/produce their own products and for them, they deserve a 5. We enjoyed walking around and the energy from many visitors. Btw, if you need golf balls at a great price, definitely the place to go. When you enter the college grounds, keep right at the traffic circle and your first right for parking which was free."
Dennis Gane
"We enjoyed the street fair, more booths than I expected, and food carts, I would have liked more fresh produce, but it is January. There was lots of seating available, so we gobbled some Carmel corn and listened to the wonderful “Vintage People” band!"
J L
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The fair is located at the College of the Desert in Palm Desert, CA, at the juncture of Fred Waring Drive and Monterey Drive. Public parking is available just south of the venue. Keep right at the traffic circle upon entering the college grounds for the best parking.
Yes, public parking is available and free. Following the traffic circle to the first right often leads to the most convenient spots.
Information on public transport routes to the College of the Desert can be found on local transit authority websites. It's advisable to check schedules in advance.
The fair is generally accessible, with paved pathways. However, specific accessibility details should be confirmed directly with the venue if needed.
From Palm Springs, take Highway 111 South towards Palm Desert. The College of the Desert is a well-known landmark.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to the College of the Desert Street Fair is typically free.
The street fair is open every Saturday and Sunday from 8 AM to 2 PM.
It's best to check their official social media or website for holiday hours, as they may vary.
Pet policies can vary. It's recommended to check with the organizers or look for signage at the entrance regarding pets.
Yes, there are decent washrooms available on site.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Vendors
You can find a wide array of products, including artisan crafts, handmade jewelry, art, vintage items, home decor, and more.
While many vendors offer handmade and unique products, some sellers may offer imported goods.
You might find some fresh produce, but it's not the primary focus, especially outside of peak growing seasons.
Several vendors specialize in jewelry. Keep an eye out for stalls showcasing handmade and artisan pieces.
Yes, some vendors focus on mid-century modern and atomic-age inspired items, fitting the desert's aesthetic.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There's a good variety of food trucks offering affordable eats, perfect for a casual meal or snack.
Food truck offerings can vary, but many vendors provide diverse menus that often include vegetarian or vegan choices.
You can typically find breakfast items and coffee from various food vendors.
The food trucks generally offer affordable pricing, making it a budget-friendly dining option.
Yes, there is usually ample seating available in the food court area.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture vibrant shots of artisan crafts, colorful food truck displays, and the bustling market atmosphere.
It's polite to ask vendors before taking close-up photos of their merchandise.
The diverse stalls themselves offer great visual interest. Look for unique displays and vibrant colors.
Morning light can be soft and appealing, while later in the day offers a lively atmosphere.
Absolutely! Most visitors use their smartphones to capture the sights and sounds of the fair.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Kids will enjoy browsing the colorful stalls, discovering unique toys and crafts, and, of course, the variety of food trucks offering kid-approved snacks and meals. It's a great opportunity for children to see handmade items and perhaps even pick out a special souvenir. The open space and lively atmosphere make it an engaging environment for younger visitors. 💰 Budget Travelers
and while some artisan goods can be pricey, there are often many unique items available at reasonable price points. 🛍️ Shoppers Seeking Unique Finds
While you'll need to sift through to find them, the fair is known for its artisan crafts, handmade jewelry, and vintage items. +2 Take your time, chat with vendors, and you might just discover that perfect, unique piece you won't find anywhere else. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Vendor Landscape
+2 some Reddit users note that a significant portion of goods can be imported. Keep an eye out for specific categories that are often well-represented. Jewelry makers, artists displaying paintings and sculptures, and creators of home decor are frequently mentioned.
+2 The fair also has a reputation for vintage and mid-century modern finds, aligning with the Palm Springs area's aesthetic. Don't be afraid to chat with the vendors; they often have fascinating stories behind their products and can offer insights into their work. A Culinary Adventure at the Fair
Visitors frequently praise the affordable pricing and wide variety of options available, making it an excellent spot to grab brunch or a casual lunch. Whether you're craving sweet treats like caramel corn While specific menu items can vary, the general consensus is that you can find everything from classic comfort foods to more international flavors.
Many visitors appreciate that the food area provides ample seating, allowing for a relaxed dining experience amidst the market buzz. The Vibe and Atmosphere
The atmosphere is generally described as energetic and fun, with a good mix of locals and visitors browsing the stalls. Many visitors find the fair to be a more enjoyable experience than other local markets, citing its size and variety.
and a great excuse to get out and about in Palm Desert. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit