🛠️ Palm Springs Fix-It Fair: Repair, Learn, and Reconnect

This summer, Palm Springs is hosting its first-ever Fix‑It Fair, a community gathering blending sustainability, education, and neighborhood camaraderie. Organized through FixItPS.org, this free event invites residents to bring household items in need of repair—and walk away with newfound skills and a revitalized sense of ownership.

What makes the Fix‑It Fair special?

• Volunteer fixers on hand
  Skilled local volunteers and repair professionals will assist attendees in making everything from sewing fixes to bike repairs and small appliance troubleshooting—empowering visitors to do-it-yourself while learning hands-on.

• Beyond repairs: know-how and connection
  Unlike traditional repair shops, this event emphasizes teaching. Participants work side-by-side with fixers during the process—gaining repair techniques, troubleshooting methods, and sustainable habits.

• A sustainable lifestyle in action
  By repairing rather than tossing items, participants contribute to waste reduction in Palm Springs. This reflects a deeper shift toward repair-first behavior and reduced consumerism.

🌟 A Day at the Fair

Imagine arriving with a lamp that flickers, a jacket missing a zipper pull, or a squeaky bike wheel. At the Fix‑It Fair, friendly volunteers greet you with tools and a plan. You assist with the repair, ask questions, and walk away not just with a fixed item—but a booster shot of confidence for future self‑repairs.

• Bring up to two small items per person, such as textiles, electronics, toys, or household gadgets.

• Register in advance, though drop‑ins are usually welcome.

• Stay with your items throughout the fix—it’s about learning alongside the volunteer in real time.

Stories from Other Communities

Cities across the U.S. have embraced this model successfully—Portland’s Fix‑It Fair, for example, regularly sees a ~70% successful repair rate, and California’s Fix‑It Clinics (like in San Diego or San Mateo) have helped families save money, keep treasured items, and reduce landfill waste. Participants also share the joy of repairing heirloom items, such as a decades-old waffle iron brought back to life.

Why Palm Springs Needs This

In a city known for its desert leisure and eco‑chic sensibilities, the Fix‑It Fair is a perfect fit. It blends local pride with practical stewardship, offering residents a refreshing counterpoint to fast‑fashion and single-use culture. It's also a touchstone moment for residents, makers, and sustainability advocates to come together, fix things, and build community.

Quick Info (For ⎵Desert Dispatch Readers)

• What: Fix‑It Fair Palm Springs — free community repair and learning event

• Where & When: Hosted by FixItPS.org—check the site for the exact date, time, and location

• Who: Open to everyone in Palm Springs and surrounding Coachella Valley neighborhoods

• Why Attend: Save money, reduce waste, discover repair skills, and meet your community

The Fix‑It Fair is more than just fixing broken stuff—it's about giving life back to objects and forging connections in the community while honoring the desert spirit of creativity and resourcefulness. Register here: https://fixitps.org/