Las Vegas
Four Days of Design, Style and Retro Fun in Palm Springs!
By Ken MacIntyre
September 21, 2025 (Palm Springs) – If you thought Palm Springs only came alive in February for Modernism Week, think again. Every fall, the city hosts a more intimate version of the popular festival, and this year’s Modernism Week – October, taking place October 16–19, promises four fun-packed days in the sun to celebrate the desert’s most stylish season.
From home tours to design talks, from cocktail parties to community events and more, here’s a preview of what not to miss at next month’s Modernism Week – October!
Palm Springs Modernism Fall Show, photo by David A. Lee
Must-See Tours
House tours are the heartbeat of Modernism Week, so you’ll want to snag a ticket to the Featured Home Tour: Sackley Chase Sensation. Designed in 1976 by Stan Sackley, and decorated by Steve Chase, this residence has all the drama you’d expect, including Brutalist details, travertine floors and jaw-dropping views.
If you prefer to see more in less time, try one of the various Architectural Bus Tours, always a festival favorite. From the signature Premiere Double Decker Architectural Bus Tour to different themed rides and even Charles Phoenix’s over-the-top Super Duper Double Decker Bus Tour, you’ll get a rolling front row seat to Palm Springs’ greatest architectural achievements.
The Palm Springs Modernism Fall Show is another must, with nearly 50 national exhibitors showing off vintage furniture, art and design treasures. Serious shoppers might want to spring for the Friday night Preview Party on October 17 for early access, cocktails and a festive night of retro-chic browsing.
New This Year
Like it’s older sibling in February (which celebrated 20 years!), Modernism Week – October can also roll out new experiences. Architecture buffs will want to experience the 100 Years of Palm Springs Modernism Tour, an intimate mini-coach journey spanning a century of design and led by expert tour guide Trevor O’Donnell.
Herbert Burns Trifecta Tour, courtesy of the Burns Family Archive
If you’re a color lover, you’ll swoon over the Palm Springs Paradise Home Tour, which opens the doors to six vibrant and personality-packed residences. Meanwhile, the Herbert Burns Trifecta Tour and The Brutalist: Exploring Laszlo Sandor’s Canyon South III and the Rise of 1970s Desert Modernism, both offer deep dives into the architects and movements that helped shape the desert’s mid-century identity.
And then there are the ever popular social gatherings; Cocktails on The Wells Times Two serves up drinks and design at two distinctive homes, while the Golden Hour Gathering at the Morse Residence invites guests to sip poolside at this 1961 Class 1 Historic Site.
Easy on the Pocketbook
You don’t need to break the bank to join in on the modernist fun, either! Modernism Week – October offers several free events, including the Hot Purple Energy Architectural Bike Ride, the Herbert W. Burns Walk of Stars Dedication, plus various design talks, book signings and guided art walks.
Vintage automobile buffs will love the reasonably priced Casual Concours, The Desert’s Most Fabulous Midcentury Car Show: Coupe du Jour Show, while foodies can sign up for mixology classes and pop-up dining experiences that blend retro flavor with Palm Springs flair.
Whether you’re a long time modernism enthusiast or simply curious about Palm Springs’ architectural legacy, Modernism Week – October has something for everyone and offers an approachable way to immerse yourself in design, history and community. Modernsim Week – October runs October 16-19, 2025. Tickets are now available at ModernismWeek.com
Documentary film, The Donn of Tiki will screen at the Palm Springs Cultural Center