Each February, design enthusiasts from around the world flock to Palm Springs for Modernism Week, and at the center of it all is CAMP (Community and Meeting Place). From February 13 to 23, 2025, CAMP will once again serve as the festival’s hub, offering a vibrant mix of events, experiences, and activities. Located at the Hyatt Palm Springs on Palm Canyon Drive, CAMP is free and open to the public daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with free underground parking available. As the departure point for Modernism Week’s famed Double Decker Architectural Bus Tours, CAMP is the go-to destination for attendees looking to immerse themselves in midcentury modern culture.
A Hub for Design, History, and Entertainment
CAMP features a variety of attractions, including an information desk, the Modernism Week store by Destination PSP, and an exclusive 20-year visual timeline of Modernism Week’s history. Guests can enjoy book signings, engaging talks in the Modernism Week Theater, and themed events that celebrate the era’s iconic style. The Hyatt’s all-day food and beverage service ensures that attendees can refuel while soaking in the festival’s offerings.
“CAMP is the central meeting place for all things Modernism,” says David Dixon, Modernism Week’s Creative Director and CAMP Manager. “Whether guests are discovering new activities, shopping for retro-inspired finds, or simply relaxing with fellow modernists, CAMP is the heartbeat of Modernism Week.”
Special Events to Look Forward To
Opening Day Celebration and Mayoral Proclamation
The festivities kick off on Thursday, February 13, at 10 a.m., when Palm Springs Mayor Ron deHarte will present a proclamation honoring Modernism Week’s 20th anniversary. Taking place in the Hyatt atrium, this event commemorates two decades of celebrating midcentury modern design and Palm Springs’ role as its epicenter.
Friday Afternoon Fun: Themed Costume Contests
Two lively Friday Afternoon Fun events will add a splash of vintage flair to CAMP. Hosted by the fabulous Bella da Ball, these themed costume contests invite attendees to dress up and embrace retro style:
- February 14 – Jet Set Chic: Channel the glamour of 1960s luxury travel with mod dresses, pillbox hats, and aviator sunglasses.
- February 21 – Poolside Set: Show off your vintage resort wear, from flowing kaftans to classic swim caps.
Prizes will be awarded for the best looks, and complimentary hors d’oeuvres will be served. A full bar will be available for cocktails and wine.
Immersive Experiences and Engaging Talks
CAMP offers a curated selection of experiences that dive deep into the world of midcentury modernism.
Video Lounge
A dedicated space will showcase free Modernism Week-curated video programs, featuring Palm Springs history, midcentury home tours, and a special short film celebrating the festival’s 20th anniversary.
Mahjong Meet-up
For those who enjoy games with a vintage twist, CAMP will host two afternoons of Mahjong on February 16 and 17. Enthusiasts can gather to play both Chinese and American versions of the popular tile game, with vintage Mahjong sets on display for added nostalgia.
Sponsor Showcases and Interactive Exhibits
Several major brands will present unique activations at CAMP:
- Ferguson will feature stylish, mod-inspired kitchen and bath products.
- Brizo will showcase its latest faucet collections and luxury bathroom hardware.
- Dunn-Edwards Paints will unveil its Color of the Century, Viridian Odyssey, and celebrate its 100th anniversary with interactive displays.
- Tidelli Outdoor Living will provide a chic lounge area for guests to relax and socialize.
Modernism Week Theater at CAMP
The adjacent 150-seat theater will host over 30 insightful presentations on architecture, design, and cultural history. Some of the highlights include:
- Dueling Visions: Six Moon Hill vs. Twin Palms (Feb. 14) – A comparative look at two early midcentury modern communities on the East and West Coasts.
- Boys in the Sand: Horace Gifford and the Architecture of Seduction (Feb. 15) – A deep dive into the groundbreaking work of architect Horace Gifford.
- The Art of the Showroom: Theaters and Nightlife in the Catskills (Feb. 15) – A nostalgic look at the iconic entertainment venues of the Catskills.
- The Weird and Wonderful World of Industrial Musicals (Feb. 15-16) – A humorous exploration of corporate musical theater, featuring rare vintage clips.
- Marvelous Motels: Southern California’s Legacy Motels (Feb. 16) – A photographic journey through the region’s most iconic midcentury motels.
- Palm Springs Plays Itself: A Vintage Home Movie Cocktail Hour (Feb. 19) – A fascinating screening of amateur home movies shot in and around Palm Springs.
- Palm Springs Tiki: Polynesia in the Desert (Feb. 21) – A look at the city’s unique blend of modernism and Polynesian pop culture.
- Bowlarama: The Architecture of Midcentury Bowling (Feb. 21) – A celebration of the architecture and style of the 1950s bowling craze.
A Celebration of Midcentury Culture
With its immersive experiences, interactive exhibits, and a packed schedule of engaging talks and events, CAMP is the ultimate destination for Modernism Week attendees. Whether you’re a longtime modernism enthusiast or a first-time visitor, CAMP offers an exciting and dynamic way to explore the design, history, and style that make Palm Springs a mecca for midcentury modern fans.
Don’t miss out—mark your calendar for February 13-23, 2025, and experience all that Modernism Week at CAMP has to offer!
For more information visit: https://modernismweek.com
