Find Shade In Joshua Tree In August
Joshua Tree in August is still very hot! The desert is extremely beautiful and you will have it all to yourself during August. Get our early and plan the ultimate sunset adventure to avoid the hot weather. During the summer we recommend finding a pool and some shade to stay cool at. There are many hotels with natural spring pools you can experience in the towns of Desert Hot Springs or Palm Springs.
Find your favorite spots to camp or hang out and enjoy the Joshua Tree’s summer weather in August. Temperatures in August range from 99 degrees Fahrenheit in the daytime to 69 degrees Fahrenheit at night. Be sure you pack warm clothes for the evenings because it can get cold and windy in the desert at night.
Top Events happening in Joshua Tree In August:
Live Music @ Joshua Tree Saloon
In August 2025, the Joshua Tree Saloon is your go-to spot for live music almost every night of the week. This iconic venue features a variety of shows, including local bands, singer-songwriters, and touring acts playing rock, country, blues, folk, and Americana.
Look out for special themed nights like Open Mic Tuesdays, energetic Rock ‘n’ Roll Fridays, and laid-back Sunday Jam Sessions where musicians often join in for impromptu performances. The Saloon also hosts occasional larger concerts with well-known artists passing through on tour.
Joshua Tree Night Market
Second Saturdays Each Month
In August 2025, the Joshua Tree Night Market is a fun event where locals and visitors come together under the beautiful desert night sky. It’s a great place to enjoy tasty food from local food trucks and vendors, with lots of choices like tacos, snacks, and cool drinks to keep you refreshed in the warm evening.
You can also shop for handmade crafts, like jewelry, clothes, art, and home decorations made by local artists. Sometimes, there’s live music or performances, making the market feel lively and fun as you meet new people and enjoy the desert atmosphere.
The market usually runs from 6 PM to 10 PM on select weekends in August. It’s a perfect way to spend your evening after a day of exploring Joshua Tree National Park.
Live Shows @ Pappy & Harriets
Various Dates
In August 2025, Pappy & Harriet’s remains a legendary spot in Pioneertown, known for its authentic western saloon vibe and lively atmosphere. This iconic venue offers hearty, delicious food—from BBQ ribs to vegetarian options—paired with cold drinks like local craft beers and classic cocktails.
Pappy & Harriet’s features multiple stages and entertainment spaces, hosting live music every night. You can catch a variety of acts ranging from rock and country to blues and folk, making it a favorite destination for music lovers and locals alike.
Examples of events to look out for in August 2025:
Live performances by well-known Americana and indie bands on weekend nights
Special BBQ cookouts and themed parties on select evenings
Open mic nights giving local artists a chance to shine
Milky Way Photography Workshop
Join the Milky Way Photography Workshop this August 2025 to master the art of capturing stunning night skies. Learn expert tips and techniques for photographing landscapes under the stars, creating beautiful star trails, shooting the Milky Way, and exploring deep-sky astrophotography.
Workshops take place on select evenings throughout August, typically from 8 PM to midnight, when the skies are darkest. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to improve your night photography skills, this hands-on experience will help you capture breathtaking celestial images. Be sure to reserve your spot early, as spaces fill up quickly!
Rock Climbing and Bouldering
One of the top things to do in Joshua Tree is rock climbing—scrambling and climbing on the huge, smooth rock formations that make the park famous. With thousands of climbing routes available for all skill levels, it’s a paradise for climbers. If you’re new to climbing, it’s a great idea to start with the Joshua Tree Rock Climbing School, where you can learn the basics, safety tips, and the best beginner spots.
Here are some popular climbing areas in Joshua Tree to explore:
Intersection Rock – A favorite for beginners with plenty of easy routes and great views.
Hidden Valley Campground – Offers a variety of climbs right near the campsite, perfect for all levels.
Barker Dam – Known for classic routes and beautiful surroundings.
Echo Cove – Popular for its steep climbs and challenging problems.
Skull Rock – Features unique rock formations and many routes to try out.
Johnny Marfa & the Lights
In August 2025, Johnny Marfa & the Lights will be performing in the nearby area, offering a unique opportunity for music enthusiasts to experience their captivating blend of jazz and blues. Their performance is scheduled for Wednesday, August 20, 2025, at 7:00 PM PDT at the Agua Caliente Casino in Palm Springs, California.
While this venue is approximately 45 minutes from Joshua Tree, it provides an excellent chance to enjoy live music in a comfortable setting. The casino offers a variety of dining options, gaming, and entertainment, making it a full evening experience.
Go Hiking
If you’ve ever visited Joshua Tree National Park, you know just how vast and amazing it is. The park offers endless miles of trails winding through stunning deserts, rocky canyons, and unique landscapes waiting to be explored. When hiking here, always bring plenty of water and sun protection— the desert sun can be intense and can wear you out faster than you expect.
Here are some popular hikes to consider in Joshua Tree:
Hidden Valley Nature Trail – A short, easy loop through a scenic valley surrounded by rock formations.
Ryan Mountain Trail – A moderate hike with rewarding panoramic views from the summit.
Barker Dam Trail – A 1.3-mile loop featuring a historic dam, wildlife, and beautiful desert scenery.
Lost Horse Mine Trail – A longer hike that leads to an old gold mine with fantastic views.
Cholla Cactus Garden Trail – A short, flat walk through a dense area of cholla cacti, especially beautiful at sunrise or sunset.
The Integratron
In August 2025, visit The Integratron, a unique dome-shaped structure built by ufologist and contactee George Van Tassel. Located just outside Palm Springs, it offers daily sound bath sessions that use special quartz bowls to create soothing vibrations, helping you relax, recharge, and rejuvenate your mind and body.
Sound baths typically run twice a day, at 11 AM and 2 PM, lasting about an hour each. Because these sessions are very popular and spots fill up quickly, it’s important to book your reservation in advance. The Integratron also offers tours of the fascinating structure, giving insight into its history and acoustics.
Weekly Local Events in Joshua Tree in August:
Saturdays: Joshua Tree Farmers Market
Joshua Tree is a great destination year-round. Many other extraordinary events are happening and listed on the Joshua Tree Guide website.
For info on the live music scene, the Event Brite has a great list of upcoming shows in the desert area.
If you have any questions about other events happening in Joshua Tree, please contact us at the ITH Coyote Ranch Joshua Tree.
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