Palm Springs Thursday Market – A Visual Essay

Palm Springs Thursday Markets open at 5 PM with food, crafts, and live music. Streets close by 4 PM, so come early to secure parking at Mercado Plaza! Early birds get the best spots at Palm Springs Thursday Market! Stoked we parked before the 4 PM rush. Endless food, crafts, and fun vibes! #EveningMarket #PalmSpringsFun

If you’re planning to visit Palm Springs, don’t miss the lively and vibrant Palm Springs Thursday Markets. Held every Thursday evening, this bustling street fair transforms Palm Canyon Drive into a hub of local activity. From street performers to live music, artisan kiosks, and mouth-watering food stalls, the market offers an exciting mix of entertainment and culinary experiences for both locals and visitors.

After visiting the Palm Springs Art Museum, we were lucky to secure parking early at the back of Mercado Plaza, which was a good call because the streets around the market start getting busy as early as 4 PM. Even though the market officially opens at 5 PM, the roads are closed earlier while the vendors set up their stalls, so it’s good to arrive before then. It was also a relief that the market starts late, as Palm Springs can be scorching hot, especially during the day.

Once inside the market, you’re greeted by a festive atmosphere. Musicians and performers add to the market’s charm, while the various kiosks sell everything from crafts to clothing and unique gifts. Whether you’re looking to browse the stalls or chat with the vendors, it’s easy to lose yourself in the bustling energy. The Palm Springs Thursday Markets are a great place to get a feel for the local culture and meet new people.

For food lovers, this market is a dream come true. With so many stalls offering delicious dishes, it can be hard to choose what to eat first! We tried New York Steak and Shrimp at 760 Teppanyaki for US$26.99. The steak was cooked perfectly, and the shrimp was a tasty complement. The only downside was the wait time—it took nearly an hour to get our meal. That said, the food was well worth the wait. If you’re hungry and want something quicker, you might want to try the empanadas at PasteListos. We sampled several varieties, including Chicken, Cheese, and Beef, and each one was packed with flavour. For dessert, don’t miss their Apple Pastelitos—these sweet treats were a perfect way to end the night.

Beyond the food, the market is filled with unique finds. There’s a wide range of local vendors selling handmade goods, artisan crafts, jewellery, and more. Whether you’re searching for a special souvenir or just browsing, there’s something for everyone.

While the market is a fantastic experience, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, arrive early to find parking, as the streets get busy quickly. Also, bring cash, as not all vendors accept cards. Since the market runs after dark, it’s a good idea to bring a flashlight or use your phone light when walking to and from your car.

All in all, Palm Springs Thursday Markets offer an engaging and memorable evening. Whether you’re there for the food, live entertainment, or the lively market stalls, it’s a fantastic way to spend an evening in Palm Springs. Just be prepared for the wait times at popular food spots and make sure to explore the entire market—you might just find some hidden gems!

Palm Springs Thursday Market (aka Palm Springs Village Fest)
Address: North Palm Canyon Drive
Website: https://villagefest.org/