May 3 and 4
Joshua Tree readies
Annual Turtle Days

Joshua tree – Joshua Tree will celebrate turtle day is May 3-4.

Schedule events include an 8 p.m. dance Friday night at Sportsmen’s hall on Sunbursts Avenue; A parade starting at 10 a.m. Saturday morning in the downtown Joshua Tree; an arts and crafts display Saturday and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Elementary school multi-purpose room on Sunburst Avenue; and a gymkhana Sunday at 2 p.m. in Sportsman’s Park. There will be rides, game booths, food booths and “tailgaters” with rocks and jewelry, crafts and souvenirs at Sportsmen’s Hall and Park on both days. Russell and Mousey Hayden of Pioneertown will be the grand marshals of the parade.

Live turtle racing were a feature of Turtle Days in earlier years. But they are no longer allowed because the desert tortoise is an endangered species. Mechanical turtle races are now held in the park.

Source:

  • San Bernardino County Sun
  • April 30, 1975

Posted: October 9, 2025

Apr. 30, 1975 - The San Bernardino County Sun
  • The Rusty Nickel
    The Rusty Nickel

    Generally Wednesday – Sunday, from midday to late nite.

    Directly across Curtis Road from the back entrance of Pappy & Harriet’s.

    At the Rusty Nickel you can find One-Of-A-Kind Artworks By – Kt’s Curious Creations, Souvenirs, Unique Gifts, Oddities & Creepy Stuff, Thrifting Gems, Vintage/Antique Treasures, Jewelry, Historical Reads About Pioneertown & The Surrounding Areas By Local Historian Ken B. Gentry, Cookbooks & Literature From Annie’s House Publishing, Hand-Made Wares, Crystals & Minerals, And Tons More….