Celebrating VillageFest and Bidding Adieu
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By GERRY BARKER
North Palm Beach Life January 22, 2019 PALM SPRINGS, Calif._It was our last night in this magical place and we couldn't believe how quickly the time flew. As we thought about what to do, we discovered downtown was hosting a festival -- VillageFest. Actually, it's a weekly occurence: "VillageFest takes place in downtown Palm Springs on Palm Canyon Drive every Thursday night. The street is closed to vehicular traffic and is transformed into a festive, pedestrian street fair. . .Vendor booths are set up on both sides of the street, and visitors are able to stroll through the traffic-free event." Since Palm Canyon Drive was an easy two-block walk from our hotel, that was perfect. We could at once see it's hugely popular, judging by the mass of humanity going hither and yon. There were tons of booths and the restaurants were doing a booming business. While we generally shy away from bumper-to-bumper people events, this one was fun among all the festive lights up and down the boulevard. There was entertainment as well, including a fire dancer that kept his audience mesmerized (see the video below). There were also plenty of opportunities for Pam's favorite pastime -- shopping. After all the shopping and walking and taking in the sights, it was time to pick a place to eat. So many options, but we ultimately choose the Blue Coyote, "voted in the Top 100 best outdoor restaurants in the nation," according to their website. It sure looked inviting, with its lighted trees and festive patio setting. Specializing in Southwest Mexican, we opted for Pollo Naranja --"grilled boneless chicken breast marinated in orange juice, chipotle peppers & garlic with a touch of orange liqueur. Topped with adobo sauce & served with black beans & rice." It was superb, and the low-hanging moon in the California night sky was the creme de la creme for a perfect evening. Then it was time to bid adieu to Palm Springs. We would be leaving with so many indelible memories, and a vow to come back someday. Hey, if we were to win the lottery, we would be back in a flash to claim one of those hillside homes where the Hollywood stars came to frolic. We can always dream, right? |
Pam goes shopping --
that's her way of celebrating! 
Not sure what this is, but it
could use a few good meals! 
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Who's that woman taking my picture?
A fire dancer entertains the crowds
Love this mural at one of the hotel entrances
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As we walked, we looked for a restaurant and decided on the Blue Coyote.
A perfect night for Mexican food served al fresco.
A perfect night for Mexican food served al fresco.
What would a festival be without street food? There was plenty to choose from.
Photos/Video by North Palm Beach Life |
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