Events

Desert Recreation District (DRD) was founded in 1950 to address the growing need for recreational services and community amenities in the Coachella Valley. Several factors likely contributed to its establishment:

• Population Boom: The Coachella Valley experienced population growth following World War II, with veterans and families moving to the region. As communities expanded, there was a demand for structured recreational opportunities and public spaces.
• Suburban Development: The 1950s were a period of suburban growth in the United States, with cities in the Coachella Valley like Indio, Palm Springs, and Coachella expanding. Recreation districts were a natural response to the need for organized leisure activities in these growing areas.
• Worker Recreation: The valley’s agricultural industry was booming, supported by the Coachella Canal (completed in 1949), which brought water for irrigation. With a large agricultural workforce, including families, there was a need for recreational programs and facilities that could provide leisure opportunities for this population.
• Community Development: Creating a recreation district helped foster a sense of community, providing gathering places and programs for residents of all ages.
• Early Tourism Development: The valley was beginning to establish itself as a resort destination. Providing high-quality recreational facilities helped attract more visitors and supported local economic growth.
• Golf and Sports Boom: The 1950s saw the rise of golf and other leisure activities in the region, aligning with the DRD’s mission to develop recreational resources.

The District’s creation in 1950 was a forward-thinking response to these trends, creating a lasting legacy that has supported the Coachella Valley’s recreational needs for 75 years.

“We are thrilled to be celebrating this important milestone with our Coachella Valley community, our team members, and with our many members who have joined us on this journey over the last 75 years. Here’s to another 75 years of growth and service to the Valley,” noted DRD General Manager Kevin Kalman.