Modernism Week once again proved why it’s one of the world’s favorite design celebrations, drawing more than 111,000 attendees to its 11‑day festival held February 12–22, 2026. With more than 1.5 million guests attending over the past two decades, the event continues to be a magnet for architecture lovers, design fans, and anyone who appreciates a good dose of Palm Springs sunshine with their modernism.
This year’s festival didn’t just bring people together—it brought serious economic energy. An estimated $62 million flowed into Greater Palm Springs during the event, pushing Modernism Week’s cumulative economic impact past $560 million since its start. Not bad for a festival that began as a small community celebration of midcentury style.
Modernism Week also continues to invest in the future of design. Later this spring, the organization will announce new scholarship recipients supporting Coachella Valley students pursuing careers in architecture and design. Since 2011, more than $400,000 in scholarships has been awarded.
The 2026 edition offered nearly 500 events created with 52 partner organizations, including 15 historic neighborhoods and 95 sponsors. Guests enjoyed everything from architectural tours and expert talks to films, workshops, and stylish social gatherings—all set against the iconic desert backdrop of Palm Springs and its neighboring cities. The City of Palm Springs served as Civic Presenting Sponsor, with additional support from Indian Wells, La Quinta, Palm Desert, and Rancho Mirage.
“Modernism Week continues to captivate a global audience drawn by a shared passion for design excellence and the enduring relevance of modernism,” said CEO Lisa Vossler Smith. She credited sponsors including Ferguson Home, Brizo, Dunn‑Edwards Paints, and Monogram for helping deliver a world‑class experience.
Education remained a major focus, with more than 80 lectures and films led by architects, landscape designers, historians, and design experts. This year’s keynote came from acclaimed architect Elizabeth Diller of Diller Scofidio + Renfro.
A standout moment was the World Monuments Fund/Knoll Modernism Prize Ceremony, hosted for the first time outside New York City. The award recognizes excellence in preserving modernist architecture and marked a milestone for the festival.
Attendees traveled from all 50 U.S. states, the District of Columbia, and 28 countries, including Canada, Australia, Germany, and the United Kingdom. Californians made up about 42% of the crowd, with strong turnout from across the state and the Coachella Valley.
The Palm Springs Modernism Show remained a fan favorite, drawing more than 15,000 attendees and a lively opening night preview benefiting Modernism Week. With 144 dealers reporting strong sales, the show’s longtime producer, Dolphin Promotions, is already gearing up for its October and February returns.
Media coverage soared, generating more than 9.3 billion impressions across nearly 50 countries. Outlets from Architectural Digest and The New York Times to VOGUE, Wallpaper*, and Lonely Planet highlighted the festival’s global appeal. International coverage spanned Casa Vogue (Spain), Dezeen, Livingetc (UK), Manila Standard, The Globe and Mail, Toronto Star, and many more.
Top sponsors included Ferguson Home, Brizo, Dunn‑Edwards Paints, Monogram, Cotino, DWR, Flor, and Natural Retreats. The City of Palm Springs served as Civic Presenting Sponsor.
Modernism Week – October returns October 15–18, 2026 (tickets on sale August 1), and Modernism Week 2027 will take place February 11–21, 2027 (tickets on sale November 1). For updates, visit modernismweek.com and follow the festival on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, and X.