Join Us for Cal Bears in the Desert Events!
All Cal Bears in the Desert events are open to alumni, students, families, and friends. As a 100% volunteer-run community, we host a diverse lineup of activities throughout the year, from networking mixers and watch parties to workshops, community service, and student support gatherings.
Whether you’re looking to connect with fellow Bears, meet new friends, or support current students, our events offer something for everyone in the Coachella Valley and beyond.
Upcoming Events
Coffee and Hike with the Bears
Saturday, November 7, 2026 | East Indio Hills Badlands & Downtown Indio
Join fellow Golden Bears, friends, and family for a sunrise hike at the East Indio Hills Badlands, followed by coffee and conversation in downtown Indio. Not a hiker? Skip the trail and meet us for coffee.
- Hike: meet at 6:00 AM, on the trail by 6:20 AM. Free parking lot at Avenue 42 and Golf Center Parkway, Indio.
- Coffee: about 9:00 AM at Saguaro Coffee, 45151 Oasis St, Suite A, downtown Indio.
- What to bring: at least 2 liters of water, a snack, a hat, sunscreen, and sturdy shoes with good grip.
Details and RSVP via our Linktree.
Big Game Watch Party with the Stanford Coachella Valley Chapter
Saturday, November 21, 2026 | The 129th Big Game
Cal hosts Stanford at California Memorial Stadium this year, and we’re watching together here in the desert — teaming up with the Stanford Coachella Valley alumni chapter for a friendly, family-friendly watch party. Wear your blue and gold and help cheer the Bears on to keep the Axe. Kickoff time and venue will be announced as soon as the game time is set — watch your inbox and our social media. Attendees cover their own food and drinks.
Questions? Reach our chapter at calbearsinthedesert@gmail.com.
2026–2027 Board Meeting Schedule
All alumni are welcome to attend Chapter board meetings.
| Date | Time | Status |
|---|---|---|
| September 21, 2026 | 5:00 PM | Held |
| November 16, 2026 | 5:00 PM | Upcoming |
| January 18, 2027 | 5:00 PM | |
| March 22, 2027 | 5:00 PM | |
| May 17, 2027 | 5:00 PM | |
| Annual Board Meeting | TBA |
Our Flagship Events
A few signature programs happen every year, rain or shine (or desert heat). Here’s what to expect:
New Student Reception with UC Berkeley Admissions (Spring)
Our signature spring event, held in partnership with UC Berkeley’s Office of Undergraduate Admissions. We welcome newly admitted students and their families, connect them with alumni and campus resources, and help them begin their Berkeley journey right here in the desert. Our 2026 reception was the most well-attended in our chapter’s recent history, with over 50 RSVPs!!
Summer Welcome Party / Summer Send-Off (Summer)
A celebration for incoming freshmen and transfer students heading to Berkeley in the fall. Held in collaboration with CAA’s Summer Welcome Party program, this event provides community connection, campus information, t-shirts, gift bags, and a chance to meet local alumni before leaving for campus.
Campus Dinner for Graduating Seniors (Spring)
An intimate dinner honoring local graduating seniors from UC Berkeley. We celebrate their achievement, welcome them into the alumni community, and bridge the transition from student to Bear.
Coffee with the Bears (Recurring)
A casual community gathering for alumni and community members to connect, share, and stay engaged with the chapter outside of formal events. Open to all members of the Cal community.
Alumni Mixer / Happy Hour (Periodic)
A networking and social event bringing together local alumni to reconnect, meet new members, and celebrate what it means to be part of the Cal Bears in the Desert community.
Suggest an Event
Got a great social idea? Share it with us!
Got a fun idea or want to host a gathering? We want to hear from you! Help us create more opportunities to connect and celebrate by sharing your event ideas.
Email us at calbearsinthedesert@gmail.com
Past Events
Take a look at some of our favorite moments – from annual dinner and campus send-offs to football watch parties and scholarship celebrations.
Stay Connected
Don’t miss out on upcoming events – sign up for our newsletter or follow us on social media for the latest updates and announcements.
