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Date Festivals in California

1 date festival in California — season runs February, September, October and November.

Earlier this year

Riverside County Fair & National Date Festival

February 12 – March 1, 2026

Indio

Dates

A 10-day desert celebration of the Coachella Valley's iconic date harvest in Indio.

Frequently asked

When is date season in California?
Date harvest season in California runs September through November, peaking in October. The Coachella Valley — centered around Thermal, Mecca, and Indio — produces nearly all of the U.S. date crop. Medjool and Deglet Noor are the dominant varieties; Medjool dates come off the palms first (September–October), while Deglet Noors follow in October–November. Festivals and farm stands in the valley are most active during this harvest window. Harvest events and U-pick windows follow the same window — check each listing for exact 2026 dates.
Can you pick your own date in California?
Browse the Gather Grove U-pick directory to find pick-your-own farms near you.
Are date festivals in California free?
It varies — many are free community events, while others are ticketed. Each festival's page on Gather Grove lists its admission.