Your Thursday Night Plans Start Here
Music & Dining Under the Stars
at Desert Willow Golf Resort
Join us for an alfresco dining series under starry skies, featuring chef-crafted menus, live music, and moonlit views of the iconic Firecliff Course.
A Signature Desert Willow Experience
Select Thursdays, 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM
As the sun dips behind the Santa Rosa Mountains, the air shifts. There’s a stillness, a breeze, a warm glow. String lights twinkle overhead as the first notes rise, a soulful saxophone, a smooth guitar riff, the rhythm of laughter and clinking glasses.
Welcome to Music & Dining Under the Stars, our most beloved Thursday tradition at Desert Willow Golf Resort.
The Soundtrack of Your Thursday
Each evening invites you into an alfresco concert, carefully curated to match the mood of the moment. From lively Motown and funky island grooves to romantic acoustic ballads, our lineup evolves with the season, and always under the open sky.
It’s not just background music, it’s part of the magic.
Menus That Echo the Music
At Music & Dining Under the Stars, the rhythm isn’t just on stage, it’s on your plate.
Each buffet is inspired by the evening’s featured music genre, thoughtfully crafted by our culinary duo, Executive Chef Francois Gaertner and Sous Chef Gustavo Garcia, alongside their talented team. Together, they design menus that harmonize with the night’s soundscape, creating a truly immersive experience.
Whether it’s island-inspired seafood to accompany steel drum melodies, classic Italian fare for a jazz-infused set, or bold steakhouse cuts that pair with blues and rock, every menu is a sensory extension of the music.
Because at Desert Willow, the food takes center stage too.
Here’s a taste of what to expect this season:
2025–2026 Season Calendar
Thursday, January 29, 2026
Island-Inspired Cuisine Meets Hawaiian Rhythms
Start the new year with an unforgettable night of Music & Dining Under the Stars at Desert Willow Golf Resort. Soak in the fresh January air on the scenic Lakeview Terrace as you enjoy a vibrant island-inspired buffet and live music by Ben Benavente, bringing the smooth vocals and laid-back rhythms of Hawai‘i to the desert.
Executive Chef Francois Gaertner and Sous Chef Gustavo Garcia present a tropical menu featuring citrus-kissed seafood, tender Kalua pork, and refreshing flavors designed to perfectly complement Ben’s soulful island sound.
Seafood Buffet
Starters
New England Clam Chowder
Shrimp & Oyster Display
Caesar Salad
Deviled Eggs
with Smoked Salmon
Bay Scallop Salad
Heirloom Tomato Salad
Main Event
Cheddar Mashed Potatoes
Roasted Cauliflower
Fish en Papillote
Crab-Crusted Salmon
with Roasted Garlic Cream
Chicken Bruschetta
Clam Vongole Station
Garlic Bread
Desserts
Cherry Jubilee
with Vanilla Ice Cream
Chocolate Decadence
Lemon Tart
Raspberry Cake
Live Entertainment: Ben Benavente
Experience Island Rhythms with Ben Benavente
Let the warm, tropical vibes of the islands wash over you with a live performance by Ben Benavente.
Blending the melodic charm of artists like Fiji and Ka’au Crater Boys with the breezy styles of Jack Johnson and Bruno Mars, Ben brings the essence of Hawai‘i to the desert.
With smooth vocals, soft reggae grooves, and island-inspired rhythms, his sound transforms the evening into a laid-back escape under the stars, perfect for swaying, sipping, and savoring the moment.
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Thursday, February 12, 2026
Spanish Tapas Meet Soulful Sounds Under the Stars
Celebrate Valentine’s week with bold flavors and unforgettable soundscapes at Desert Willow Golf Resort. On Thursday, February 12, enjoy an evening of Spanish-inspired cuisine and dynamic live entertainment by Angelique featuring Dare House.
Savor a vibrant tapas buffet crafted by Executive Chef Francois Gaertner and Sous Chef Gustavo Garcia, featuring paella, Galician octopus, braised chicken in garlic lemon sauce, assorted bruschettas, and fried calamari, all set to a soulful soundtrack of R&B, Motown, and timeless hits under the desert sky.
Spanish Tapas Buffet
Starters
Antipasti Pasta Salad
Tomato Mozzarella Salad
Artichoke Salad
Balsamic Roasted
Mushroom Salad
Assorted Bruschetta
Spinach & Cheese Dip
Main Event
Grilled Asparagus
Spanish Potato Cake
Fried Calamari
with Banana Peppers
Paella
Galician Octopus
with Poached Potatoes
Meatballs in Tomato Sauce
Braised Chicken
in Garlic Lemon Sauce
Sautéed Mussels Station
Desserts
Tres Leches Cake
Caramel Flan
Arroz con Leche
Crema Catalana
Churros with Chocolate Sauce
Live Entertainment: Angelique featuring Dare House
Valentine’s Week Spotlight
Celebrate love, rhythm, and connection with an electrifying Valentine’s Week performance by Angelique Featuring Dare House, a powerhouse ensemble delivering the soulful sounds of R&B, Motown, and beloved hits from the ’90s and early 2000s.
With rich harmonies, passionate vocals, and a genre-spanning setlist, Angelique and her band create an atmosphere that’s both vibrant and heartfelt. Their high-energy presence and romantic musical flair set the perfect tone for a night of dancing, laughter, and unforgettable memories.
Whether you’re sharing the evening with someone special or enjoying a night out with friends, this performance under the stars promises to be the ultimate soundtrack to your Valentine’s celebration.
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Thursday, February 26, 2026
Join us for a soulful night under the stars on Thursday, February 26 at Desert Willow Golf Resort. Enjoy a chef-crafted Seafood Buffet by Executive Chef Francois Gaertner and Sous Chef Gustavo Garcia, featuring fresh, seasonal dishes in a stunning desert setting.
The evening comes alive with live music by the Stanley Butler Band, an R&B and Motown-inspired ensemble led by Harlem-born bassist Stanley Butler. Known for smooth grooves and dynamic energy, their performance sets the perfect tone for a festive and unforgettable night.
Latin America Buffet
Starters
Green Chicken Pozole Soup
Taco Salad
with Southwest Dressing
Southwest Caesar Salad
Cilantro Lime Coleslaw
Honey Mustard Chopped Salad
Main Event
Lemon Cilantro Rice
Tomato-Braised Squash
Crispy Pork Belly
Chicken and Rice
(Arroz con Pollo)
Harissa-Crusted Strip
Loin with Demi
(Carving Station)
Barramundi a la Veracruz
Shrimp Cocktail
& Ceviche Display
Desserts
Caramel Flan
Vanilla Ice Cream
with Rompope Sauce
White Chocolate Cactus
Pear Panna Cotta
Venezuelan Dark
Chocolate Cake
Live Entertainment: Stanley Butler Band
Soulful Motown Roots. Timeless Musical Excellence.
Born in Harlem and shaped by the rich sounds of Motown, jazz, and soul, Stanley Butler leads this powerhouse group with smooth basslines, rich harmonies, and timeless R&B energy. With decades of experience alongside music legends, the Stanley Butler Band delivers a dynamic performance that bridges generations and fills the night with unforgettable rhythm and soul.
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Thursday, March 12, 2026
Immerse yourself in a coastal-inspired evening of seafood and smooth live music at Desert Willow Golf Resort. On Thursday, March 12, enjoy a chef-curated Seafood Buffet alongside dynamic, crowd-pleasing entertainment by Radio Ready, Southern California’s premier dance band.
Seafood Buffet
Starters
Shrimp & Oyster Display
Ceviche
Ahi Tuna Salad
Caesar Salad
Asian Salad
Main Event
Shrimp Scampi Station
Oysters Rockefeller
Fish & Chips
Chicken Piccata
Cheese Ravioli
with Lobster Sauce
Desserts
Pistachio Ricotta Pie
Ice Cream Sundae Bar
Chocolate Banana Cake
Vanilla Cream Puff
Flourless Chocolate Cake
Live Entertainment: Radio Ready
Southern California’s Hottest Dance Band Comes to Desert Willow Golf Resort
Get ready to turn up the energy under the desert night sky with Radio Ready, Southern California’s premiere dance band, formerly known as New Sensations. Featuring a powerhouse lineup of musicians from Los Angeles, Palm Springs, and Orange County, this dynamic group brings unmatched talent, charisma, and crowd-pleasing entertainment to every performance.
From 1940s jazz standards to today’s top dance hits, Radio Ready seamlessly blends decades of music with a fresh, modern twist. With lead vocalists featured on American Idol and the Disney Channel, plus highly sought-after instrumentalists, you can expect a high-energy, professional show that gets everyone on their feet.
Whether you’re a fan of classics, pop, R&B, or interactive party sets, Radio Ready delivers a fun, immersive experience that makes every guest feel like part of the show.
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Thursday, March 19, 2026
Raise a glass to an elegant night of fine wine, flavorful cuisine, and smooth live music at Desert Willow Golf Resort. On Thursday, March 19, indulge in a wine-inspired buffet crafted by Executive Chef Francois Gaertner and Sous Chef Gustavo Garcia, featuring red wine-braised short ribs, truffle mushroom risotto, grilled pork chops with apple demi, chicken Florentine, and pan-seared salmon with blood orange beurre blanc.
The evening’s soundtrack comes alive with a live performance by Angelique Featuring Dare House, a powerhouse band delivering soulful R&B, Motown, and iconic hits from the ’90s and 2000s, setting the perfect tone for a festive evening under the stars.
Wine Tasting Buffet
Starters
Caesar Salad
Balsamic Caprese Salad
with Micro Basil
Roasted Honey Carrot Salad
with Pine Nuts
Wedge Salad
with Blue Cheese Dressing
Main Event
Truffle & Mushroom Risotto
Seasonal Roasted Vegetables
Red Wine-Braised Short Ribs
Grilled Pork Chops
with Apple Demi
Chicken Florentine
with Spinach Cream Sauce
Pan-Seared Salmon
with Blood Orange Beurre Blanc
Skirt Steak Station
with Mojo
Desserts
Apple Cake
with Vanilla Ice Cream
Raspberry Cheesecake
Chocolate Ganache Cake
Chef’s Choice
Panna Cotta
Live Entertainment: Angelique featuring Dare House
From Motown to the 2000s – Get Ready to Dance
Angelique Featuring Dare House delivers an electrifying performance packed with soulful vocals, rich harmonies, and irresistible energy. This dynamic group blends R&B, Motown, and iconic hits from the ’90s and early 2000s into a high-impact set that keeps the crowd moving all night long. Known for their genre-spanning style and captivating stage presence, Angelique and her band promise a vibrant, feel-good soundtrack to an unforgettable evening.
Serving up powerhouse vocals and high-energy hits
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Thursday, April 16, 2026
Enjoy a classic steakhouse evening under the stars at Desert Willow Golf Resort. On Thursday, April 16, indulge in a hearty buffet featuring pepper-crusted strip loin, Wiener schnitzel veal, rotisserie chicken, and decadent desserts.
The night comes alive with a high-energy performance by The Zippers Trio, known for their timeless rock and dance hits spanning the decades, perfectly pairing with bold flavors and moonlit views.
Steakhouse Buffet
Starters
Caesar Salad
Wedge Salad
Greek Salad
Cheese Dip
Shrimp Cocktail Display
Main Event
Green Bean Casserole
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Wiener Schnitzel Veal
Roasted Pork Loin
with Beer Sauce
Pepper-Crusted
Strip Loin Station
Rotisserie Chicken
Desserts
Apple Cobbler a la Mode
Ice Cream Sundae Station
Raspberry Cheesecake
Bread Pudding
Live Entertainment: The Zippers Trio
Timeless Hits. Unmatched Energy. Pure Entertainment.
A powerhouse group with deep roots in the Rock, Show, and Dance scene, The Zippers Trio features three original members from one of the industry’s most renowned party bands. Known for their incredible versatility, this dynamic trio delivers a high-energy mix of timeless classics and crowd-favorite dance hits, seamlessly spanning genres and decades. Their electric stage presence and top-tier musicianship guarantee a lively, feel-good performance that keeps audiences coming back for more.
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Thursday, April 23, 2026
Take your taste buds on a global adventure at Desert Willow Golf Resort on Thursday, April 23. Enjoy an international buffet with dishes like grilled kabobs, roasted lechón, white fish papillote, and wood-fired pizzas, plus decadent desserts from around the world.
Set the mood with live island-style music by Ben Benavente, whose smooth vocals and reggae-inspired rhythms bring the warm, breezy spirit of Hawai‘i to this unforgettable night under the stars.
Wine Around the World Buffet
Starters
Caesar Salad
Niçoise Salad
Greek Salad
Loaded Hummus Platter
Main Event
Twice-Baked Potato
Grilled Vegetables
Grilled Kabobs Station
(Lamb, Chicken, Beef)
Wood-Fired Pizza Station
(Pepperoni, Margherita, Cheese)
La Caja China
Whole Roasted Lechón Station
Papillote White Fish
Desserts
Bread Pudding
with Vanilla Sauce
Creamy Caramel Flan
Beignets
Chocolate Semifreddo
Dulce de Leche Cheesecake
Live Entertainment: Ben Benavente
Experience Island Rhythms with Ben Benavente
Let the warm, tropical vibes of the islands wash over you with a live performance by Ben Benavente.
Blending the melodic charm of artists like Fiji and Ka’au Crater Boys with the breezy styles of Jack Johnson and Bruno Mars, Ben brings the essence of Hawai‘i to the desert.
With smooth vocals, soft reggae grooves, and island-inspired rhythms, his sound transforms the evening into a laid-back escape under the stars, perfect for swaying, sipping, and savoring the moment.
Make Your Reservation Now
“Wonderful event. Food was very good, atmosphere was excellent, and music was fun.“
– TripAdvisor Reviewer
- Open to guests 21 and older
- Seating begins at 5:30 PM
- Music and buffet service start at 6:00 PM
- Advanced reservations are required and open 30 days prior to each event date
Advanced reservations are required and open 30 days prior to event date.
Why Guests Return Again and Again
Ready to Reserve?
Tables fill quickly. Reserve your seat beneath the stars and experience a Thursday evening unlike any other.
Advanced reservations are required and open 30 days prior to event date.
