February 15, 2023

The Original City Plan for Borrego Springs: Christmas Circle

Share

A Vision for Borrego Springs

Borrego Springs was originally planned with accessibility and vibrant community life in mind. The town’s layout was designed to connect Christmas Circle and the Borrego Valley with Los Angeles and other population centers. While not all of the vision came to life, the community continues to build on its unique character.

The Original Plan

The original city plan aimed to make movement around town simple. Developers initially looked at Coyote Canyon for access but pivoted to Montezuma Grade. After multiple road adjustments, Palm Canyon Drive became the main entrance to Christmas Circle.

Christmas Circle: The Heart of Town

Christmas Circle was envisioned as a lively three-acre park—a central town square surrounded by shops on small lots. Roads were designed to radiate outward, connecting key hubs like Rams Hill, Borrego Springs Resort, and DeAnza Country Club. Inspired by the traditional “Zócalo,” the layout aimed to blend community, shopping, and tourism.

The Original City Plan for Borrego Springs: Christmas Circle
Image by: rocketbrew

This hub included essentials—grocery store, bank, newspaper office—all designed to face the park. Major roads channeled vehicle traffic, while smaller pedestrian streets welcomed shoppers. Though the vision wasn’t fully realized, efforts continue to evolve the space with that community-first spirit in mind.

Learn More About Borrego Springs

April 8, 2026
Creative Workshop Begins
April 7, 2026
Volunteer-Run Community Park Christmas Circle Community Park sits at the center of Borrego Springs and remains one of the most recognized public spaces in the area. The park was established in the early 1950s when the DiGiorgio family donated the land in honor of Alphonse A. Burnand, tying the space directly to the early development of Borrego Springs. A Park Run by Volunteers Today, the park is managed by a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization led by a volunteer board of directors. The organization is supported through grants and donations from both residents and visitors who use the park. Jeff Sloan, president of the board, said, “There’s a group of people who really love the park and they put their effort into making it a wonderful place to visit.” What It Takes to Maintain the Park Maintaining Christmas Circle is an ongoing responsibility. The board oversees landscaping, lawn care, tree trimming, and water management to keep the grass maintained throughout the year. The park also provides regularly cleaned public restrooms, requiring daily attention and consistent upkeep. 
April 6, 2026
Maria Forman Band at Library Meta description: Free concert in Borrego Springs featuring the Maria Forman Band performing Great American Songbook music at the public library. The Maria Forman Band will perform a free concert in Borrego Springs on Sunday, April 12, 2026, at 3:00 PM at the Borrego Springs Public Library. Presented by the Borrego Springs Community Concert Association , the performance features music from the Great American Songbook. The program includes a range of styles such as show tunes, pop, swing, bebop, rhythm and blues, and contemporary selections. Free Community Concert This event is open to the public and offers an opportunity to experience live music in a casual setting. The Borrego Springs Community Concert Association continues to provide accessible performances for residents and visitors throughout the season. What to Expect Attendees can expect a mix of familiar songs and diverse musical styles performed by an experienced group of musicians. The concert is designed to appeal to a wide audience, whether listening for enjoyment or exploring different genres of American music.
April 6, 2026
Easter Sunrise Service Borrego Springs The annual Easter Sunrise Service in Borrego Springs took place on Easter morning behind the United Methodist Church on Church Lane. Hosted each year by the Borrego Ministers Association, the outdoor service brought together local congregations, residents, and visitors for a shared Easter gathering at sunrise. Annual Easter Sunrise Service in Borrego Springs The Easter Sunrise Service is a long-standing community tradition in Borrego Springs. Held outdoors at sunrise, the service offers a shared way for people to gather on Easter morning in a peaceful desert setting. What Is the Borrego Ministers Association The Borrego Ministers Association is a group of local faith leaders and caring community members who work together to support Borrego Springs. The association helps coordinate shared services, community events, and outreach efforts throughout the year, including the annual Easter Sunrise Service. A Community Gathering at Sunrise Residents and visitors gathered early, bringing chairs and dressing for the cool desert morning. The service brought people together in one outdoor setting for Easter morning. The annual sunrise service continues to reflect community participation and cooperation in Borrego Springs.
Pizza in Borrego Springs: Top Local Spots
By Jake Hinton April 6, 2026
Discover freshly made pizza in Borrego Springs at Carlee’s and Calico’s, two family-run spots offering delicious options for both vegetarians and meat lovers in casual, welcoming settings.
April 4, 2026
Monday, May 4 at St. Barnabas A low-cost spay and neuter clinic hosted by Animal Action League will take place on Monday, May 4 at St. Barnabas Episcopal Church , 2680 Country Club Road in Borrego Springs. The clinic will offer affordable veterinary services for cats and dogs, including spay and neuter procedures, vaccinations, and microchipping . These services help reduce unwanted litters while supporting the long-term health, safety, and identification of companion animals in the Borrego Springs area. While pets are being cared for, the church will remain open to those waiting. Coffee will be available, creating a comfortable space during the morning hours. Check out this article about the last event. Animal Action League A Non-Profit Spay & Neuter Clinic Tax ID # 33-0345283 Call for an appointment: Office English: (760) 366-1100 Office Spanish: (760) 366-1105 Fax: (760) 366-7300 Email: aalreservations@gmail.com Mailing Address: PO Box 1413 Joshua Tree, CA 92252 Learn More About Borrego Springs 
Show More

Share This Post