Desert Recreation District to Host Action-Packed Veterans Weekend Ahead of Memorial Day

The Desert Recreation District (DRD) is inviting the community to a series of special events designed to honor veterans and their families later this month. Scheduled for the weekend of May 15-16, 2026, the activities offer a blend of outdoor adventure, competitive spirit, and charitable giving in the lead-up to the Memorial Day holiday.

The weekend kicks off on Friday night, May 15, with a unique nighttime exploration at the Indio Hills Community Center. Residents and veterans can participate in a guided stargazing session followed by a "scorpion hunt," where participants use ultraviolet lights to spot the glowing desert arachnids in their natural habitat. Organizers say the events are designed to bring veterans, families, and the community together in a relaxed, social environment.

The excitement continues Saturday morning, May 16, with an RC air show. Attendees can watch skilled pilots maneuver radio-controlled aircraft in a thrilling aerial display. The show is intended to provide a family-friendly morning of entertainment for all ages before the afternoon’s main competitive event.

The weekend’s centerpiece is the Bill Huntington VFW Post 3699’s Chili Cook-Off, held on Saturday from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM at the Desert Recreation District Gymnastics and Performing Arts Academy in Indio. This annual competition serves a dual purpose: providing a fun-filled afternoon of food and community while raising critical funds for the local Veteran Wheelchair Team. All proceeds from the contestant entry fees and event donations will go directly to the VFW to support athletes participating in the National Veterans Wheelchair Games.

According to DRD organizers, these events are a vital way to foster gratitude and connection within the Coachella Valley. By combining recreation with direct support for veteran-led initiatives, the District aims to strengthen the bonds between those who have served and the community they call home.

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