Festival season is in full swing in Coachella Valley, and there’s something for everyone to celebrate from January through May. From films and art to music and equality, Palm Springs has plenty of reasons to celebrate. And this February, you can indulge your inner designer at Modernism Week.
Mid-century modern architecture in Palm Springs — Photo courtesy of Modernism Week
Palm Springs and Coachella Valley boast one of the highest concentrations of mid-century modern architecture in the entire country. So it only makes sense that the desert hosts one of the world’s most notable festivals for everything mid-century modern. And if you’re a fan of the sleek lines that define mid-century modern, not to mention the vintage and funky interior decor that goes with it, then you won’t want to miss Palm Springs’ annual Modernism Week in February.
The double-decker bus tour — Photo courtesy of Modernism Week
Modernism Week (which is actually an 11-day event) kicks off on February 13, 2014, and brings a host of tours, cocktail parties and lectures to Palm Springs. If you’re not sure where to start, book yourself one of the double-decker bus tours that takes you through all of the city’s most notable neighborhoods.
You’ll learn star trivia as you see iconic homes like Elvis’ Honeymoon Hideaway and the desert oasis that belongs to Goldie Hawn and Kurt Russell. You’ll also be treated to views of homes by all the notable architects, including Donald Wexler, John Lautner, Albert Frey and William F. Cody. Sights along the tour include the famous Wexler Steel Houses and the Frey-designed Palm Springs Visitors’ Center.
Or you can put your boots to the ground on one of the numerous tours being offered by the Palm Springs Historical Society throughout the festival. Tour options highlight everything from Hollywood homes to architectural styles, offering an in-depth look at the designs that put Palm Springs on the map.
Sunnylands — Photo courtesy of Modernism Week
Another big draw of Modernism Week is the exclusive homes that open their doors to visitors come February. You’ll be able to sneak a peak at homes like the Frey House II, Frank Sinatra’s Twin Palm Estates and the Historic Estate at Sunnylands in Rancho Mirage.
If you’re really into mid-century modernism, don’t miss the film screenings and lecture series held throughout the festival. Many films premiere during Modernism Week. Lectures offer an in-depth look at the history and architects that made Palm Springs a mid-century modern mecca.
Don’t forget that you can also take a slice of mid-century modern style back with you at the Modern Living Expo at the Palm Springs Convention Center. Dozens of vendors bring the best of mid-century modern-inspired designs to the convention center floor. You can easily spend the entire weekend redecorating your home.
Speaking of shows, you can also check out the best vehicles of the era during the Vintage Car Show and Vintage Travel Trailers Show, both held during Modernism Week.
For more information about the event, as well as a schedule of events, check out the Modernism Week website.
