Numerous Events Coming to El Paseo in April, Including Budweiser Clydesdales

By Chris Clemens

The season may be slowing down, but more is to come in April on El Paseo, including a visit by the beloved Budweiser Clydesdales. Throughout the month while the weather remains near perfect, a plethora of options are available for visitors to enjoy.

The highlight of April is a return visit from the world-renowned Budweiser Clydesdales making a visit on April 22.  Arriving in an eight-horse hitch at 1 p.m. they will be harnessed and hitched to the red beer wagon on a side street at the west end, and will start their journey on El Paseo, stopping to make deliveries along the way from 2 to 4 p.m. They will be accompanied by their iconic traveling pal, a Dalmatian, which in the early days of brewing were trained to protect the horses when the driver made deliveries.

City of Palm Desert’s First Weekends also continues on El Paseo on April 3 and 4, bringing special events and activities for the public while highlighting world-class arts, entertainment and cultural interests. On Friday, April 3, it’s El Paseo After Dark with the renowned El Paseo Art Walk – a long-standing tradition on El Paseo –from 4 to 8 p.m. featuring art galleries, exhibition openings and special receptions. Other events include extended shopping hours until 8 p.m. in participating stores, and El Paseo Cruise night showcasing classic cars cruising the avenue at 4:30 p.m. (earlier previews of the cars take place at 3:15 p.m. in the upper level of the parking structure at The Gardens).

On Saturday, April 4 from 10 to 11 a.m., visitors can enjoy a free guided walking art tour of the public art collection lining the median and other locations on El Paseo, and for music lovers, the popular Concert Series at The Gardens on El Paseo welcomes Joe Baldino, music writer and guitarist. For a $12 donation, guests have seats on the lawn and can enjoy a wine and cheese reception held before the concert begins at 6 p.m. The donation benefits the Braille Institute.

Other events throughout the month include the Concert Series every Saturday night, with Organic Sol acoustic duo on April 11, and John Stanley King band on April 18.  El Paseo Cruise Night continues on Friday, April 20, showcasing the classic cars cruising the drive at 4:30 p.m. with earlier previews of the cars. Not to be forgotten are the boutiques and other shops (of about 250) open every day, as well as tasty restaurants with a wide selection of cuisine styles. In addition, daily Happy Hour specials and entertainment can be found at the many restaurants, as well as special Easter menus and brunch options.