What is Desert Town Hall?

Desert Town Hall is one of the pre-eminent speaker series in the nation, providing world-class speakers, intellectual content and youth education to the Coachella Valley. The series offers four programs each year, typically from January to April.

Desert Forum, Inc. (which produces Desert Town Hall) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) educational corporation. A portion of your ticket purchase may be tax-deductible.

The biggest and most influential names in the world have come to Indian Wells, creating lifetime memories for all those who attend. From Bob Costas, Chris Wallace, and Caroline Kennedy, to Scott Kelly, Chris Christie, and Condoleezza Rice, the noted list of speakers in the series’ history is indeed impressive.

Can I buy a single event ticket?

Single tickets are not available. Subscribers buy a package of tickets for all four speakers.

Where do the events take place?

Renaissance Esmeralda Resort and Spa

760.773.4444

44-400 Indian Wells Lane (off of Highway 111). The entrance to the resort is to the right when you reach the roundabout.

Click here for a map.

Lectures are held in the Esmeralda Ballroom which is located at the rear of the resort property. Parking attendants will be on hand to direct traffic.

Where is parking?

You may self-park or use the valet parking which is complimentary with your ticket. Plan to arrive at the resort early to alleviate the last-minute rush of cars.

We suggest you arrive early and enjoy a beverage on the Rose Lawn or in the Esmeralda Ballroom lobby prior to the start of the program. The hotel has two fine restaurants, Cava and The Place. For dinner reservations, please call the hotel directly at 760.773.4444.

Carpooling is encouraged.

What time should I plan to arrive?

All ticket holders should plan to arrive as early as possible.

Enjoy the no-host cocktail party and music on the Rose Lawn which begins at 5 pm for your listening pleasure.

Doors open at 5 pm.

What time do the lectures begin?

The program begins promptly at 6 pm and lasts for approximately one hour. Late arrivals will be seated at the discretion of management.

What happens after the lecture?

Dinner ticket holders are invited to the Rose Lawn for a hosted wine reception beginning at 7 pm. Dinner is at 7:30 pm followed by a Q&A session with the speaker.

Are cameras or recorders allowed?

Flash photography, audio recording and videotaping are expressly prohibited.

Any other questions?

If you have any questions the night of the event, we have staff at the front desk in the Esmeralda lobby who will be happy to assist you.