Palm Springs Modernism Week Sets Schedule

(Press Release) PALM SPRINGS, CA (October 27, 2025) – Modernism Week announced the schedule of its highly anticipated February festival, running from February 12 to 22, 2026, in the Palm Springs area of Southern California. This iconic celebration spotlights midcentury and modern architecture, art, interior and landscape design, and vintage culture. The 11-day event will offer more than 450 unique experiences, including the renowned Palm Springs Modernism Show, tours of iconic architectural homes, and vibrant evening events. The programming provides a perfect blend of education and entertainment for enthusiasts of architecture and design. Festival highlights include access to the legendary gardens of the Kaufmann Desert House, a range of engaging architectural tours aboard open-air double-decker buses, walking and biking excursions, tours of the historic Annenberg Estate at Sunnylands, retro-themed parties, and captivating talks by world-class speakers. The event schedule may be previewed on the website now and tickets go on sale November 1, 2025, at 12 p.m. PDT at modernismweek.com. All events are open to the public.

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"We are pleased to offer so many new activities this year and showcase our most popular fan-favorite events,” said Lisa Vossler Smith, CEO of Modernism Week. “Our diverse range of exciting programs offers something for everyone and every price point. We’re especially grateful to the many homeowners who have generously opened their homes for our exclusive tours. We look forward to sharing this festival with the entire community." 

“I am very proud that many Modernism Week activities continue to focus on preservation and restoration,” said Chairman William Kopelk. “Preservation of architectural heritage is one of the cornerstones of Modernism Week's mission. Our high-quality events help raise awareness about the importance of preserving architecture and focus on conservation efforts to rehabilitate historic buildings in Palm Springs and beyond.”  

2026 HIGHLIGHTED EVENTS
 
Modernism Week is honored to host the prestigious 2026 World Monuments Fund/Knoll Modernism Prize Ceremony (2/18, $20). This biennial prize honors the individuals and organizations that preserve our modern built heritage through pioneering architectural and design solutions. Created in 2008 in partnership with Knoll, the prize is part of World Monument Fund’s Modernism at Risk initiative founded in response to the increasing threats to buildings representative of the modern movement. This is the first time this noteworthy event will be held outside of New York City. The recipient will be announced on January 20, 2026. The World Monuments Fund/Knoll Modernism Prize is made possible, in part, by support from Knoll.

Celebration for Nelda Linsk, the “First Lady of Modernism Week”
Beloved long-time Palm Springs resident Nelda Linsk arrived in the city in 1962 and has been a continuing influence on the culture, architecture, fashion, art, and interior design of the city ever since. Her ongoing community-wide influence will be honored during the festival in several ways, starting with Modernism Week’s Kick-off Free Event, the Walk-Of-Stars Rededication Nelda Linsk’s Star (2/12, FREE). This is the first rededication of a star -the words “First Lady of Modernism Week” will be now included on her star. Nelda will be specially honored with This Is Your Life, Nelda Linsk (2/19, $25), a captivating review of her amazing life and career, and featuring appearances by special guests. Later in the week, a special screening of Poolside Gossip, More Than a Photograph (2/21, $10) will be offered. This rarely screened film features Nelda giving her behind-the-scenes details of the famous Slim Aarons photoshoot that produced the famous 1970 photograph, Poolside Gossip, taken at the Kaufmann house. Nelda will be present for questions and photographs following the film. 

FEATURED HOME TOURS
This year, Modernism Week will present two Featured Home Tours. 

·       Modernism Week Featured Home Tour: Soleil House (2/12 – 2/18, 2/20 - 2/22, $65 and $125) The Soleil House is a once-neglected 1963 home now fully reimagined by designer Trina Turk. This stunning renovation preserves the home’s original footprint and seamlessly blends midcentury simplicity and charm with modern technology and contemporary comfort to capture the essence of Palm Springs living. The thoughtfully updated and inspired design utilizes bold colors and effortlessly showcases a pleasing indoor-outdoor flow that showcases seldom-seen views of Palm Canyon and the Santa Rosa Mountains. A sunset reception ($125) is offered each day of the tour. Modernism Week sponsors Brizo, Dunn-Edwards Paints, Ferguson Home, Flor, Kichler, and Monogram contributed to this home's stunning renovation.
·       Modernism Week Featured Home Tour: The Marquee at Twin Palms (2/13 – 2/16, 2/20 – 2/22, $40) The Marquee at Twin Palms is a luminous showcase of midcentury modern design in one of Palm Springs’ most celebrated neighborhoods. Built in 1957 and recently reimagined by H3K Home + Design, this architectural gem creates a seamless dialogue between past and present through sleek lines and warm textures. A dramatic decorative breeze block entry leads to interior spaces that showcase the era’s signature post-and-beam style, where soaring ceilings and walls of glass invite sunlight, mountain views, and effortless flow. Its stunning outdoor space features a sparkling pool, relaxing spa, and a chic cabana. This thoughtfully updated yet unmistakably midcentury residence adds a vibrant new chapter in the story of Palm Springs modernism. Modernism Week sponsors Brizo, California Closets, Dunn-Edwards Paints, Ferguson Home, Flor, James Martin Vanities, Kichler, and Monogram contributed to this home's stunning renovation.

In addition, dozens of tours of iconic homes designed by leading midcentury modern and contemporary architects will be offered during the festival. These include:

·       Signature Home Tour: Morning and Afternoon Tour (both: 2/15 and 2/22, $150) The Signature Home Tour has long been one of the premier Modernism Week interior home tour experiences and this year is no exception. Each Sunday will showcase a different selection of homes in Palm Springs, curated to show the best of Desert Modernism. The self-driven home tour through various neighborhoods in Palm Springs featuring several iconic architectural homes by some of the areas most noted architects.
·       Palm Desert Signature Home Tour (2/17, $100) Produced and presented by Modernism Week and KUD Properties, this popular tour of midcentury modern and “new century modern” homes will take place in the beautiful neighborhoods of South Palm Desert. Until now, many of these properties have been a best-kept secret in the greater Palm Springs area. The self-driving tour of multiple residences will feature a variety of neighborhoods and modern architectural styles. 
·       The La Quinta Country Club Signature Home Tour (2/19, $200) This first-ever, exclusive multi-home tour will offer rare access to the hidden midcentury modern heritage showcasing landmark midcentury homes by iconic design legacies – located on one of the most prestigious streets in The La Quinta Country Club. The event features golf cart transportation and a post-tour wine and charcuterie reception.

New Modernism Week Tours: 
·       The Butler Residence - PS ModCom Iconic Home Tour (2/19, $40) The 1964 Hal Lacy-designed Butler Residence is an architectural gem that has never before been offered on tour. Recently renovated with care and reverence, the home retains its original spirit while incorporating modern luxury, including the former billiard room, which has been transformed into a spacious, luxurious guest suite.
·       The Boat House: PS ModCom Iconic Home Tour (2/16, $75) Designed in 1989 by architect Michael P. Johnson, the “Boat House” was built to stand out in Palm Springs’ exclusive Southridge community. The home features sharp angles and glass walls, resembling a ship poised to launch off the cliff, which is how it earned its nickname. 
·       Interior Design Spotlight Tour: Inside the Designer’s Home (2/18, $40) Step inside a designer’s renovated 1972 modernist home at Seven Lakes, where midcentury glamour, vintage furniture and fine art come together in a setting rich with architectural history.

Additional Exclusive Home Tours:
·       Garden Tour of the Kaufmann Residence, Richard Neutra, 1946 (2/14, 2/16, 2/18, 2/20, and 2/21, $85) This is a rare and extraordinary opportunity to experience the iconic architecture and landscape design of the historic Edgar J. Kaufmann Residence (Richard Neutra, 1946). While the interior of the house is not open to the public, visitors will have the opportunity to view inside through the open glass sliding doors, which seamlessly integrates the architectural masterpiece into the surrounding landscape. 
·       Home Tour of “That Pink Door House”: Villa Sierra (2/18, $40) Welcome behind those famous pink doors in the Indian Canyons neighborhood to discover all that the playful Villa Sierra by James McNaughton reveals in its colorful take on Midcentury Modern Hollywood Regency design.
·       Edris House, designed in 1954 by architect E. Stewart Williams: PS ModCom Iconic Home Tour (2/14, $50) The Edris House, designed in 1954 by architect E. Stewart Williams is a striking example of Desert Modernism. It remains completely original, offering a rare and authentic glimpse into midcentury architectural excellence and a rare opportunity to experience one of the best-preserved architectural masterpieces that define desert modern living.
·       William Holden Estate Tour (2/15, $50) Participate in a tour of the William Holden Estate, designed in 1955 by master builder Joe Pawling, in the historic Deepwell Estates neighborhood. 
·       Frank Sinatra’s “Twin Palms” Estate Tour (2/19, $50) Tour Frank Sinatra's storied "Twin Palms" estate, designed by modernist architect E. Stewart Williams in 1947.
·       James Logan Abernathy Residence Tour (2/17, $50) Tour the stunning James Logan Abernathy Residence, designed by modernist architect William F. Cody in 1962.

ARCHITECTURAL BUS TOURS
One of the best ways to experience Modernism Week is on the popular Premier Double Decker Architectural Bus Tour (2/12 - 2/22, $130). This signature tour provides guests with a 2.5-hour overview of significant civic and commercial buildings as well as residential properties located within notable Palm Springs neighborhoods including the midcentury “leisure lifestyle” communities in South Palm Springs. Lead by knowledgeable guides, this open-air experience provides participants with a better understanding of the historical richness and architectural diversity found in this desert oasis.

In addition, Modernism Week offers other compelling double decker bus tours, including:
·       Bella da Ball's Celebrity Homes Bus Tour (2/13 - 2/16 and 2/20 - 2/21, $100) Bella da Ball, Palm Springs’ own drag ambassador, guides this special sunset tour of Palm Springs celebrity haunts, clubs and homes.
·       Charles Phoenix Super Duper Double Decker Bus Tour (2/13 - 2/22, $160) Experience midcentury architectural treasures of Palm Springs with retro pop culture humorist and author Charles Phoenix as he leads a spirited adventure atop a double decker open-air bus.
·       Illuminated Twilight Bus Tour (2/13 - 18, 2/20, and 2/21, $100) This evening tour provides guests with a 90-minute illuminated view of some of the most significant midcentury architectural treasures of Palm Springs. 
·       Sinatra's Rat Pack Homes & Hangouts Bus Tour (2/12 – 2/21, $100) This 90-minute tour features the desert-modern style homes of Rat Pack members and several of the hangouts that they frequented, many of which still exist. Also see residences of other celebrities of the era, including Dinah Shore, Elvis Presley, Liberace, Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz, and Jack Benny.
·       The Homes That Define Palm Springs Bus Tour (2/12 - 2/19, $100) This 90-minute tour showcases some of the most popular neighborhoods in Palm Springs, drawing attention to the spectacular home styles, including pre-war Spanish Colonial Revival and a range of midcentury modern residential architectural styles.

NEIGHBORHOOD TOURS
Modernism Week will feature 15 tours (including 5 new tours) in historic neighborhoods in Palm Springs, Rancho Mirage, Palm Desert, and Indian Wells. These neighborhood tours enable guests to explore unique neighborhoods and view the stunning interiors of distinctive homes not normally open to the public.

New neighborhood tours include:
·       Alta Revealed- Contemporary Desert Living Home Tour (2/16, $120) Tour six striking Alta residences, designed by Narendra Patel. Experience soaring ceilings, vanishing glass walls, and seamless indoor-outdoor living framed by dramatic San Jacinto views.
·       Andreas Hills II Neighborhood Home Tour (2/21, $60) Tour the William Cody–designed Andreas Hills II (1970–72), a serene 26-unit community with sweeping mountain views, lush greenbelts, and signature indoor-outdoor modernist living.
·       Casa Dorado at Indian Wells Home and Neighborhood Tour (2/15, $95) Tour eight midcentury homes and the clubhouse at Casa Dorado, a 1964 Indian Wells gem with lush grounds, lakes, pools, and dramatic mountain views.
·       Discover the Midcentury Marvel of Firebird Estates (2/21, $80) Tour seven uniquely curated environments featuring striking rooflines, expansive windows, and serene, landscaped grounds.
·       Tour With the Author: Unseen Midcentury Desert Modern with Daniel Chavkin (2/17, $150) This exclusive event offers rare access to private residences in Palm Springs and Rancho Mirage by legendary architects including Donald Wexler, Stan Sackley, Richard Harrison, William Cody, Dean Davidson, E. Stewart Williams, and more. 

Additional Neighborhood Tours include:
·       Canyon Estates Neighborhood Home Tour (2/14, $90) 
·       Country Club Estates of Palm Springs Modernism Home Tour (2/14, $85) 
·       Modern Love – Vista Las Palmas: Six Homes. One Legendary Neighborhood. (2/14, $125) 
·       Palmer & Krisel’s Ocotillo Lodge: Talk & Tour (2/16, $75) 
·       Racquet Club Estates Neighborhood Home Tour (2/14, $85) 
·       Sandpiper Circle 10: A Midcentury Marvel Neighborhood Home Tour (2/13, $75) 
·       Sunmor Estates Midcentury Home Tour (2/16, $80) 
·       Sunrise Park Neighborhood Home Tour: Close to Everything, but Far From Ordinary (2/15, $90) 
·       The Last of the Alexanders: Tahquitz Creek Golf Neighborhood (2/15, $90) 
·       "Thirteen Idols of Exotica" - The Royal Hawaiian Estates Neighborhood Home Tour (2/13, $120) 
PARTIES AND VINTAGE VIBES 
This year, Modernism Week will offer several enticing parties with vintage vibes, including some offered at former Hollywood residences that are rarely open to the public:

·       Start the festival by stepping back in time for a night of vintage glamour at the Modernism Week Opening Night Party: Modernist Motown (2/12, $350). Opening Night will be a celebration of music and style at Modernist Motown. Live Motown classics, bold Palm Springs style, cocktails and delectable food stations will make for an unforgettable night.
·       For those looking to find rare vintage furniture or accessories, don’t miss the festive Preview Party for the Palm Springs Modernism Show (2/13, $150) at the Palm Springs Convention Center. The party is the prime opportunity for participants to shop directly from dealers before the show opens to the public on Saturday. The ticket price includes cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, entertainment, and re-entry to the show all weekend. 

New Modernism Week Parties: 
·       Starlight Soirée: Saturday Night at The Marquee at Twin Palms (2/14, $200) Join the party and experience a festive evening with designers and design-lovers at the newest Featured Home by H3K Home + Design.
·       Sunset Cocktail Reception with Designer Trina Turk at the Soleil House (2/15, $300) This exclusive sunset cocktail reception is the very first opportunity to experience Soleil House, Trina Turk’s latest renovation project, at twilight and see Trina’s vision brought to life.
·       A Night of Sparkle: Cocktails at Piazza di Liberace (2/19, $250) Sip cocktails, enjoy hors d’oeuvres, and revel in live piano entertainment at Liberace’s iconic Palm Springs home with a Liberace look-alike, glam décor, and over-the-top midcentury flair.
·       License to Thrill - The Music of James Bond Live Music and Cocktail Party (2/15 and 2/16, $95) This unique mod-60s cocktail party features an immersive multimedia live concert celebrating the music of the James Bond spy films, as played by the Gand Band.
·       The Hidden Estate: Enjoy a Night of Vintage Glamour at the Clark Gable & Carole Lombard Estate (2/19, $195) Enjoy a night of vintage Hollywood glamour with a live big band, dancing, martinis, and surprises at The Hidden Estate, Clark Gable and Carole Lombard’s legendary home. 

FEATURED TALKS
Modernism Week will offer nearly 80 insightful, informative, and entertaining talks, panel discussions, and films during the festival.  

Highlighted talks include:
·       Stories Untold - Rebuilding Futures: Japanese American Designers in the Wake of Internment (2/16, FREE) Despite facing forced internment in the midcentury period, many Japanese Americans excelled in the fields of architecture and design, greatly shaping the legacy of modernism as we know it. Underwriting for Stories Untold and complimentary admission generously provided by Room & Board. 
·       Modernism and the Future of Housing: A Symposium (2/21, $75, $95, $175, $195) The Palm Springs Art Museum, in partnership with Palm Springs Architectural Alliance, will present a symposium on early modernist design principles and what these forecast about the future of housing. Experts will revisit the architectural innovations that defined early modern housing as a springboard for reflections on contemporary projects and the future of modern housing. The symposium includes an optional afternoon self-driving tour of significant individual and multiple dwellings of modernist design.
·       New Modernism Narratives: Conserving Modernist Architecture in Africa (2/19, FREE) This presentation will explore the World Monuments Fund’s (WMF) contemporary approach to engaging with modernist architecture, focusing particularly on its ongoing initiatives to conserve and document modernism in Africa. 

Other featured talks include 
·       Charles Phoenix: Grand Tour of Europe in the ‘50s & ‘60s - A Mid-Century Dream Vacation Slide Show Travelogue (2/14, $45, $60, $75)
·       Charles Phoenix: The Great American Retro Road Trip. A Midcentury Travelogue Tour Across the USA (2/21, $45, $60, $75)
·       Endangered Modernism: 35 Years of Protecting Frank Lloyd Wright’s Architecture (2/19, $20)
·       Saving Fallingwater: The Preservation of Frank Lloyd Wright’s 1935 Organic Masterpiece (2/18, $20)

SPECIAL EVENTS
Throughout the festival Modernism Week will showcase many festive special events. CAMP, the Modernism Week central hub located inside Hyatt Palm Springs, will be open daily and include music, mingling, and many daily events:
 
·       Vintage Trailer Show (2/21 and 2/22, $30) This is one of the most celebrated and exciting events of Modernism Week’s second weekend. It is a thoughtfully curated collection of vintage trailers, campers, buses and motor homes and is arguably one of the largest and most attended vintage trailer shows in the United States.
·       Step Back in Time: A Progressive Dinner Party in Indian Canyons (2/14, $330) Participants of Modernism Week’s first-ever Progressive Dinner will step inside three iconic Indian Canyon homes for cocktails, retro cuisine, music, and desert magic. The night starts with a cocktail hour celebrating the 1950s. The dinner course pays homage to the 1960s in a beautifully designed home with interactive food stations. The evening concludes in true 1970s style with indulgent desserts and dancing.
 
LIVE PERFORMANCES
 
PS UNDERGROUND invites attendees to enjoy four special dinner shows during the festival. SITCOM (2/14, $225) is a fun-filled four-course musical meal inspired by classic television sitcoms, variety shows, and commercials from past decades. Free-flowing cocktails, beer, and wine will complement Chef Dave’s secret four-course meal, inspired by classic recipes. Other performances include Bacon, Beehives and Bubbly, a festive, musical morning serving up our favorites: bacon, big hair and bubbly vibes (2/22, $130), Palm Springs Holiday, a midcentury dream with a stunning multi-course meal along with live performers who will bring to life iconic songs made famous by Palm Springs residents and regulars (2/18 – 2/21, $225), and Queens of Soul and Jazz, an enchanting evening celebrating the unforgettable music of renowned Jazz and Soul singers (2/15 – 2/17, $225).
 
RETURNING FAVORITES 
Many Modernism Week “fan favorite” events will return this year, including the Modernism Show on the first weekend, the Palm Springs Historical Society Walking Tours, and tours of Sunnylands, Frey House II, and many iconic homes in the Coachella Valley. 

Modernism Week top sponsors include Ferguson Home, Brizo, Dunn-Edwards Paints, Monogram, Cotino, DWR, Flor, and Natural Retreats. The City of Palm Springs is the Civic Presenting Sponsor. To receive Modernism Week updates, visit modernismweek.com and follow them on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, and X.