Fashion Week El Paseo brings boost in business to Palm Desert

PALM DESERT, Calif. (KESQ) - Fashion Week El Paseo kicks off this Friday, and it's recognized as the largest fashion week on the west coast. Fashion week events will take place at The Gardens on El Paseo, and organizers say they expect 5,000 attendees. Local business owners say this will bring a much needed boost to business.

"Restaurants are packed, the bustle is back on the street. It's what we can't wait for all summer long," says Janni Joffe, manager at Chrissy's on El Paseo.

Other major events, like the BNP Paribas Open generate millions for the local economy. According to the BNP, they generated $852 million in business for the local economy in 2024.

Local hotels say that this time of year they see the most hotel bookings. "During the season we are at full capacity. We have almost a perfect sellout every single night compared to the summer where we have to work a little bit harder to lure people into the desert to brave the heat," says Stephanie Torres with Hotel El Paseo.

Upcoming music festivals, Coachella and Stage Coach, also generate millions for the economy. According to Visit Greater Palm Springs, the two festivals generated $600 million combined in 2024.