Looking for a way to meet other drone pilots in-person? There hasn’t been a ton in the way of large-scale meetups. But finally, the Palm Springs Drone Fest offers something this industry has desperately needed.

Sure, there are conferences focused almost entirely on the business side. There are targeted events for industries like DFR or law. But what about huge celebration around the pure joy of drones? Palm Springs Drone Fest is it.

This will be the ultimate drone fan event — bringing together hundreds of people who love all facets of drones. The Palm Springs Drone Fest is set for March 21 to 23, 2025, at Palm Springs High School — and I expected it to be the best (and most fun) drone event of 2025. Palm Springs is located in southern California’s Sonoran Desert and is famous for its resorts (and also for hosting the famous Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival). With this, maybe it’ll become famous for its drone festival, too.

Why Palm Springs Drone Fest is a game-changer

Why is Palm Springs Drone Fest going to be so good? Because it’s a full-on celebration of all things drone. With high-speed FPV drone racing, an electrifying drone soccer tournament, an inspiring film festival and a trade show packed with the latest and greatest in drone tech, I’m betting this will be premier event for anyone who loves drones as much as you do.

As is stands today, large-scale drone festivals like this are rare. While there are scattered drone meetups, competitions and educational conferences across the country, few offer the comprehensive experience of Palm Springs Drone Fest. Whether you’re into high-adrenaline drone sports, cinematic aerial photography, or simply networking with fellow drone lovers, this event is set to be a must-attend destination for the drone community.

And it should be affordable, too. With so many resorts in Palm Springs, the plentiful lodging supply gives you options in finding a room rate that won’t bust your budget. Plus, one-day tickets to this event start at $30 plus fees.

The action-packed lineup for Palm Springs Drone Fest

Drone Fest isn’t just about watching others fly — it’s about getting involved. The event includes:

• Drone Soccer World Cup Qualifiers – Witness (or compete in) fast-paced drone soccer matches.
• FPV & Drone Racing – Experience the thrill of first-person drone racing.
• Drone Film Festival – Show off your cinematic drone skills in a high-stakes competition.
• Trade Show – Check out the latest innovations in drone technology.
• Breakout Sessions – Learn from industry experts about drone business opportunities, film production, and even drone-based search and rescue.
• Hands-on Learning – Fly with the Korean Drone Soccer National Team or train to be a drone soccer official.
• Drone Light Show – End the festival with a spectacular display of synchronized drones lighting up the Palm Springs sky.

Make it a vacation: why Palm Springs is the perfect venue

Palm Springs isn’t just a great place to fly drones—it’s a great place to relax and explore. With its ideal flying weather, hip hotels and ultra-convenient airport location, it’s a dream destination for drone fans looking to mix business with pleasure.

• Weather: Palm Springs’ sunny skies and minimal wind make it perfect for drone activities.
• Location: The Palm Springs International Airport is just minutes from the event venue, making travel effortless.
• Accommodations: Whether you’re into luxury resorts, boutique hotels, or stylish Airbnbs, Palm Springs has plenty of top-notch places to stay.
• Beyond Drones: When you’re not flying, explore mid-century modern architecture, incredible hiking trails. and the vibrant downtown scene.

Register now for Palm Springs Drone Fest

This is the first Palm Springs Drone Fest, and you don’t want to miss being part of history. Tickets are on sale now. And since you can get a refund anytime up to seven days before the event (aside from fees), lock in yours so they don’t sell out (and you don’t sell out).

And yes, individual components of the event are already proving to be in high demand. For example, participation in the drone soccer tournament is already at 60% capacity. If you want to compete, sign up now to secure your spot.

A one-day pass costs $33.85 after fees, and includes the entrance fee and access to the breakout sessions, the Drone Film Festival, the trade show, tournament viewing, all events, and free parking on one day. But since the event spans a whole weekend, you’ll likely want the three-day, all-access pass. That way you can take advantage of all the components of drones, from the drone light show to the drone soccer tournament to the film fest.

Oh, and rumor has it that I’ll be there too! If you want to meet up in person, I’m thinking this is the spot!

Whether you’re coming to compete, learn, connect or simply be amazed, this is the ultimate drone event to mark on your 2025 calendar. See you in Palm Springs!

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