Are Palm Springs businesses feeling the holiday rush or a seasonal slump?

With the holidays approaching, downtown Palm Springs businesses are gauging whether they’ll meet their sales goals for the season.

National forecasts predict steady growth in retail shopping for the 2024 holiday season.

Total holiday sales are expected to increase between 2.5% and 3.5% compared to 2023, reaching $979.5 billion to $989 billion according to the National Retail Federation.

Christie Jenkins Photography and Hyphen Wine & Lounge owners said they’re benefiting from the seasonal rush.

Gorgeous Men Gallery, opened just days ago.

Owner Christie Jenkins showcases her collection of male portraits, which she says are drawing significant attention.

“I had this huge collection of very gorgeous men,” Jenkins said. “Anyone sort of 55 and up recognizes everyone.”

Jenkins says the gallery has already seen steady traffic and strong sales.

“Big groups of people come in, and they always buy something,” she said.

This holiday season Jenkins is releasing her POLO: Men and Horses 2025 Calendar.

"It benefits 16 Equine charities," Jenkins said.

John Libonati, Hyphen Wine & Lounge owner, is celebrating his third holiday season in Palm Springs.

He said loyal customers and holiday events are driving an increase in sales this year.

“I’ve seen an uptick,” he said.

He said he's trying new ways to attract customers during the holiday season.

"I'm doing a lot more tastings in the shop," Libonati said. "I've got a couple of events coming up."

Both Jenkins and Libonati said that the holiday spirit is energizing downtown Palm Springs.