By Craig Michaels
As the Lunar New Year ushers in the Year of the Horse, Agua Caliente Casinos is inviting Coachella Valley residents and visitors to celebrate with a month-long lineup of entertainment, promotions, and culinary specials across its properties in Rancho Mirage, Palm Springs, and Cathedral City. The highlight of the festivities will take place over Lunar New Year Weekend, February 20 through 22, when the casinos will transform into vibrant centers of culture, music, and celebration.
Throughout February, guests can take part in the $300,000 February Fortune Sweepstakes, held every Friday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., with preliminary drawings offering up to $750 in free play or promotional chips every 30 minutes. Each evening culminates in a grand prize drawing for $25,000 in cash, encouraging players to stay engaged on the casino floor while welcoming good fortune for the year ahead.
Live entertainment will play a major role in the weekend’s festivities. On Friday, February 20, Sons of Legion brings its Soul to SØL Tour to Rancho Mirage, setting an energetic tone for the celebration. The following night, legendary performer Smokey Robinson headlines with his Legacy of Love Tour, offering audiences an evening of classic hits and soulful nostalgia. Also on Saturday, Dog N Butterfly – The Heart Experience will perform at the Agave Caliente Tequila Bar in Cathedral City, while Palm Springs hosts a special Cascade Cabaret program honoring Black History Month.
One of the most anticipated cultural highlights of the weekend will be the traditional Lion Dance performances on Saturday, February 21. Designed to symbolize luck, prosperity, and protection, the colorful dances will take place on the casino floors at 3 p.m. in Palm Springs, 5 p.m. in Cathedral City, and 7 p.m. in Rancho Mirage, allowing guests at all three locations to experience this time-honored Lunar New Year tradition.
Dining also takes center stage during the celebration, with a variety of limited-time food and drink specials inspired by the season. Guests can enjoy $10 Lunar New Year cocktails at Cathedral City’s 360 Sports, along with an $8 Strawberry Raspberry Freeze available at all Java Caliente locations. Featured dishes include Mei Cai Rou at Waters Café and Tempura Lobster Tail Lo Mein at Palm Springs 360 Sports, offering festive flavors that reflect both tradition and modern fusion.
While the February 20–22 weekend serves as the focal point of the festivities, Agua Caliente’s Lunar New Year celebration extends throughout the month, giving visitors multiple opportunities to participate. With high-profile concerts, cultural performances, generous sweepstakes, and themed dining experiences, the casinos aim to create a welcoming atmosphere that blends entertainment and tradition. For many in the Coachella Valley, the celebration offers a chance to gather with friends and family, embrace cultural heritage, and start the Year of the Horse with optimism, excitement, and a little extra luck.
For more information and a complete schedule of events, visit:
https://www.aguacalientecasinos.com
