To keep people distanced from each other during the novel coronavirus pandemic, Fantasy Springs Resort Casino near Indio has moved two of its recurring entertainment nights from indoor venue Lit to the outdoor space at The Rock Yard.

Michael Felci, public relations manager for the casino, said that as of July 23, Fantasy Springs has been hosting its Wednesday Noches De Fuego — the casino’s Latin night — and its Thursday Country Night events in the outdoor space.

He said they’re both popular nights and the casino wants to keep patrons socially distanced.

“We just want to give people more space,” he said.

The Rock Yard is where the casino holds its popular tribute shows on weekends.

The casino has kept some of its indoor shows, such as the Acoustic and Unplugged series at its lounge, Twelve. Felci said since Twelve is relatively open, the casino is able to keep it at half capacity and still allow patrons to socially distance.

There are also still some small shows at Lit happening on weekends. Felci said that during those times, its the Rock Yard shows that are the major attractions that draw in people so the casino focuses on managing those.

Moving the Latin and country shows outdoors follows an earlier decision by the casino to postpone all of its Special Events Center concerts to 2021.

Large event such as concerts and music festivals are not yet allowed under Gov. Gavin Newsom’s multiphase plan for reopening California, but many of Southern California’s casinos are located on tribal land, giving them a measure of sovereignty.

Upcoming entertainment at Fantasy Springs 

Mark Gregg and Misty Howell (acoustic set) – 7 p.m.  Saturday, Aug. 8 at Twelve

Treasure – 9 p.m.  Saturday, Aug. 8 at Lit

AC/DC Tribute – 8:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 8 at The Rock Yard

Tania Y Su Nueva Era (Latin Night) – 7 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 12

South 65 (Country Night) – 7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 13. at The Rock Yard

Mark Gregg and Misty Howell (acoustic set) – 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 14 and Saturday, Aug. 15 at Twelve

John Mellencamp Tribute – 8:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 14. at The Rock Yard

Eclectic – 9 p.m. Friday, Aug. 14 and Saturday, Aug. 15 at Lit

Foreigner Tribute – 8:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 15 at The Rock Yard