Gay Men of Palm Springs is an influential voice through their social media page on Facebook. It boasts over 15,000 members and is curated with love by Raymond Lafleur.
I have a new-found respect for the group and its members after speaking at their monthly mixer on Thursday evening. I must admit I was a bit nervous – like being called to the principal’s office. But it was a positive experience.
You see, post-election it’s more important than ever to support our LGBTQ+ owned (and friendly) businesses. Our Gay Desert Guide Directory had taken some heat this week for listing certain businesses. I addressed their concerns, but more importantly I listened to members of the group who spoke to me privately about our connudrum.
It’s not easy to maintain the thousands of listings that have accumulated over our nearly 12 years in existence. Now we have ethical, editorial and business decisions to make about how (and whether) to list certain businesses and companies on Gay Desert Guide. It carries over to the advertisers you hear on KGAY and to a certain extent on KMEE MeTV FM.
Is a business ‘guilty by association’ for supporting team Trump? The Republican party? Judges? Policies? It’s a conundrum that we’re weighing internally and with your thoughts and opinions. So we’re welcoming your comments at WeListen@KGAYPalmSprings.com or if you are reading this on a social media platform in the comments section.
I don’t have the right answer – yet. I do know that businesses that stand with us SHOULD be listed on the Gay Desert Guide directory. There’s a link on the home page to get listed for free. Just know that we’ll be vetting any new business through the lens of a new-found dictate to be much more discerning. We’ll also do so with an appreciation for the wishes of our community and our Facebook friends at Gay Men of Palm Springs.
Brad Fuhr, your Gay Desert Guide on KGAY 106.5 Palm Springs
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La Quinta Art Celebration
The La Quinta Art Celebration takes place Thursday–Sunday, November 14–17 from 10 am–4 pm daily at the La Quinta Civic Center. This four-day event showcases the work of talented artists from around the globe, offering visitors the opportunity to explore a variety of artistic styles and purchase unique pieces. From paintings and sculptures to photography and jewelry, there’s something for everyone from best-in-class artists and an event staff committed to providing a VIP experience. Get tickets
Palm Springs Pickleball Tournament
Get ready for a day of fun and competition at the Palm Springs Pickleball Tournament on Saturday, November 16 from 8 am–4 pm at Demuth Park. This event benefits the Palm Springs Hospitality Association Scholarship Fund and the Boys & Girls Club of Palm Springs. Watch as Palm Springs Chief of Police Andy Mills takes on Kim Jagd, a star player in the National Pickleball League, in a celebrity match. More info
In Conversation: When the Band Played On
Join author Michael Lee in conversation with journalist Hank Plante about his book, When the Band Played On, covering the life of Randy Shilts, this Saturday, November 16 at 7 pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center. For more than 20 years, Lee has had a passion for storytelling that has fueled a dynamic career of LGBTQ+ and HIV/AIDS organizing, human services, research, writing, and teaching. His interest in Randy Shilts came about while he was researching the origins of 1970s-era gay and lesbian community services and their influence on AIDS organizations of the 1980s. Get tickets
Morongo Basin-Wide Pride
Basin-Wide Pride is a two-day celebration of LGBTQ+ culture and community in the Morongo Basin on Saturday & Sunday, November 16 & 17 featuring a variety of activities, including a Spaghetti Western Drag Brunch, a Queen of the Desert Adventure Bus Tour, a Queer Comedy Show, and a Silent Disco Under the Stars. Pop-up events in 29 Palms will offer Pride breakfast, family-friendly art gallery exhibits, craft fair, and book readings. With a focus on caring for the community, Basin-Wide Pride promises to be a fun-filled and unforgettable weekend celebrating Morongo Valley, Yucca Valley, Joshua Tree and Twentynine Palms. More info
Big Bear Comedy Festival
The Big Bear Comedy Festival takes place this Friday & Saturday, November 15 & 16 featuring Adam Carolla, Kevin Nealon, Todd Glass and Larry Elder. Additionally, attendees will catch a hysterical supporting cast that includes producer Jason Love, Jill Kimmel, Carlos Oscar, Kira Soltanovich, Ron Pearson, Tom Mabe, James Connolly, and Vargus Mason – plus an ensemble of Hollywood’s brightest up-and-comers. Don’t miss a comedians panel Saturday, November 16 at 4 pm hosted by Larry Elder to get an inside look at the current realities faced by comedians in an era of cancel culture and censorship. Get tickets
5th Annual Turkey Drive
Join Platinum Star Properties for their 5th Annual Turkey Drive on Saturday, November 16, from 11 am–2 pm, at their new Rimrock location. Bring a frozen turkey, ham, or other non-perishable items to support the Cathedral City Senior Center, DJ Galaxy’s Five Hundred Turkey Meal Prep, and the Community Center Food Bank. Let’s come together to make a difference in our community! More info
Hillary and Clinton
Dezart Performs presents Hillary and Clinton from November 15–24. Set in an alternate universe during the 2008 presidential primaries, the play imagines a series of conversations between Hillary Clinton, who is struggling with her campaign, and her husband, Bill Clinton, as she seeks his political guidance while also dealing with their complex personal relationship. The play explores themes of ambition, power, and the dynamics of their marriage in a high-stakes political environment. Get tickets
Loot
Desert Ensemble Theatre presents Loot from November 15–24. This groundbreaking and subversive dark comedy revolves around Hal and Dennis, who rob a bank and hide the money in a coffin meant for Hal’s recently deceased mother. The plot thickens with the arrival of a corrupt detective, and the characters’ absurd and hypocritical behavior makes for a sharp critique of morality and authority. Get tickets
Thorgy Does Christmas
Thorgy Thor brings her holiday magic to Palm Springs! Join the iconic drag queen for two nights of festive fun and musical performances at Hotel Zoso on Friday & Saturday, November 15 &16 at 7 pm. Get ready to be dazzled by Thorgy’s unique blend of humor, glamour, and musical talent, with special guest Ethylina Canne. Get tickets
Seth Rudetsky’s Big Fat Broadway Show
On Saturday, November 16, The Purple Room Supper Club presents Seth Rudetsky’s Big Fat Broadway Show, a tour-de-force featuring Rudetsky’s trademark “deconstructions,” in which he uses his amazing audio collection to break down brilliant performances from beloved Broadway divas (Patti LuPone, Betty Buckley) as well as showcasing mind-boggling videos like The Osmonds singing a medley from Fiddler On The Roof. Seriously. (Dinner at 6, Show at 8 pm). On Sunday, November 17, it’s Elvis: The Early Years the 1950s-era Elvis tribute by Scot Bruce (dinner at 5, show at 7 pm). Get tickets
Rick Springfield and Richard Marx
Rick Springfield and Richard Marx are teaming up for an unforgettable acoustic tour, coming to the McCallum Theatre on Saturday, November 16 at 8 pm. These legendary musicians will perform their greatest hits, including “Jessie’s Girl,” “Don’t Talk to Strangers,” “Hold on to the Nights,” and “Right Here Waiting.” Don’t miss this unique opportunity to hear these timeless songs in an intimate setting. Get tickets
Jersey Boys
Experience Desert Theatreworks’ electrifying production of Jersey Boys: The Musical running through December 1. With innovative staging and dynamic performances, this fresh take on the classic tale of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons promises an unforgettable night of rock ‘n’ roll and nostalgia. Get ready to sing along to hits like “Sherry” and “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” in a show you won’t want to miss. Get tickets
Little Shop of Horrors
Revolution Stage Company presents Little Shop of Horrors from November 7–23. This darkly comedic musical tells the story of Seymour Krelborn, a meek florist who discovers a bloodthirsty plant. As his life takes a bizarre turn, Seymour faces moral dilemmas and outrageous predicaments. With catchy doo-wop tunes and memorable characters, Little Shop of Horrors is your chance to witness the plant that took Broadway by storm. Get tickets
Next to Normal
CVRep presents Next to Normal, running through November 24. This heartbreaking and moving musical follows a family’s struggle with depression and mental health through powerful songs, comedic and chaotic settings, and prevailing characters. Over the course of the show, the family ultimately learns how to see each other for who they truly are and finds a sense of ‘normal.’ Our theatre reviewer Stephen Radosh says “CVRep has raised the already-high bar they have set even higher with a brilliant and thoroughly engrossing production…” Read his review and Get tickets
La Cage Aux Folles
Palm Canyon Theatre will whisk you away to Paris and a night of glamorous drag and storytelling as you enjoy the incomparable La Cage Aux Folles, running through November 17 (Selling fast and already extended a week beyond their original run!). Based on the 1973 French play, this glitzy musical is set in a Saint-Tropez drag nightclub, following the hilarious antics of Albin, the star drag queen, and Georges, the club’s manager, as they navigate family drama and societal expectations. Get tickets
ALSO THIS WEEKEND
Friday, November 15
Yappy Hour benefiting Animal Samaritans | 4–6 pm at Boozehounds
The Kingdom Choir | 8 pm at the McCallum Theatre
Country Dance Fridays: Barn Dance with Rob Ollander-Krane | 7 pm at Step by Step
Mid-Century Moderns | 7 pm at Revolution Stage Company
Rob Thomas | 8 pm at The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa Rancho Mirage
Saturday, November 16
Kewet: Native American Learning Day & Market | 9 am–2 pm
Desert Film Society: The Wall Street Boy (Kipkemboi) | 10 am at Palm Springs Cultural Center
11 Artists on 111 – Opening reception presented by Kee Gallery | 5–7 pm
Free Screening + Q&A: Studio One Forever | 6:30 pm at The Church of St. Paul in the Desert
Sunday, November 17
The Australian Bee Gees Show | 3 pm at the McCallum Theatre
Mid-Century Moderns | 7 pm at Revolution Stage Company
one eleven bar 4th Anniversary Celebration
Congratulations to one eleven bar on their 4th Anniversary! Join them on Saturday, November 16 at 9 pm for a commemorative show featuring Vanity Halston, Jasmine Masters, Norma Lee High and Julianna Dick. More info
Splash House Presents Desert Air
Desert Air is back in the desert this fall for a special edition at the Air Museum with two stages from sunset into evening, Friday and Saturday, November 15 & 16. The Terminal Stage brings the outdoors After Hours vibe you love with a new immersive stage and a roster of A-list artists like Kaytranada, Anish Kumar, ATRIP, Jamie XX and more, while the indoor Hangar Stage offers a more intimate club experience, where the music feels personal and the connections are deeper, with COBRAH, Okgiorgio, Avalon Emerson and more. Get tickets
DUI Checkpoint Friday
The Palm Springs Police Department will hold a DUI/Drivers License Checkpoint on Friday, November 15 from 7 pm–2 am at an undisclosed location within the city limits of Palm Springs. Palm Springs Police Department reminds the public that impaired driving is not just from alcohol. Some prescription medications or over-the-counter drugs may interfere with driving. While medicinal and recreational marijuana are legal, driving under the influence of marijuana is illegal. Drivers charged with a first-time DUI face an average of $13,500 in fines and penalties, as well as a suspended license.
LOOKING AHEAD
Hockey Fights Cancer
Wednesday, November 20 is Hockey Fights Cancer Night, with an exciting showdown between the Coachella Valley Firebirds and the Colorado Eagles at 7 pm at Acrisure Arena. This event is part of a league-wide campaign led by the National Hockey League, the National Hockey League Players’ Association, and the American Hockey League, aimed at uniting the hockey community to support those affected by cancer. Special lavender jerseys will be worn, signed, and auctioned to benefit One Valley Foundation. Presented by Eisenhower Health Lucy Curci Cancer Center, this special evening promises thrilling hockey action while raising awareness and support for a worthy cause. Get tickets
The 2024-2025 Visitor Map & Guide is Here!
Check out the latest edition of the K-Gay Desert Guide Visitor Map & Guide! To help you find everything you need as a visitor or local, we feature the top places for Food & Drink, Nightlife, Shopping, Attractions, Gay Resorts with passes, Dispensaries, and other services. Look for the latest edition at businesses and newsstands around town, or browse it online right here!
Living Out Palm Springs Episode 4
Your Gay Desert Guide Brad Fuhr is ’embedded’ at Living Out this year. This week he talks with leasing agent Ace Whittaker about the women that have made Living Out their home. View Episode 4 HERE. – If you’re touring Living Out, be sure to tell them KGAY sent you!
“Say KGAY” Apparel
It’s always a good time to “SAY KGAY!” – Our popular shirts are back with more options to choose your favorite background color and style of shirt. Pick a color and place our SAY KGAY slogan on the front or back. Get yours in time for Palm Springs Pride! Shop Now
Click below to sign up for our Gay Desert Guide Oasis Insiders Newsletter to get our Weekly Blog, Top 3 Events for the weekend, Hot Deals and Cool Events all delivered to your inbox every Friday!
- La Quinta Art Celebration Encore
Nov 14–17 at La Quinta Civic Center - Palm Springs Pickleball Tournament
Sat. Nov 16 from 8 am–4 pm at Demuth Park - When the Band Played On – The Life of Andy Shilts
Sat. Nov 16 at 7 pm at Palm Springs Cultural Center - 5th Annual Turkey Drive
Sat. Nov 16 from 11 am–2 pm at Platinum Star Properties - Big Bear Comedy Fest
Fri. & Sat. Nov 15 & 16 at Big Bear Lake - Thorgy Does Christmas
Fri. & Sat. Nov 15 & 16 at Hotel Zoso - Rick Springfield and Richard Marx Acoustic Tour
Sat. Nov 16 at 8 pm at the McCallum Theatre - Loot, presented by Desert Ensemble Theatre
Nov 15–24 - Hillary & Clinton, presented by Dezart Performs
Nov 15–24 - Little Shop of Horrors, presented by Revolution Stage Co.
Nov 7–23 - Next to Normal, presented by CVRep
Nov 6–24 - La Cage aux Folles, presented by Palm Canyon Theatre
Oct 25–Nov 17 - Jersey Boys, presented by Desert Theatreworks
Nov 8–Dec 1 at the Indio Performing Arts Center - 20th Annual Greater Palm Springs Summit
Tue. Nov 19 from 8–11 am at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa Rancho Mirage - Hockey Fights Cancer – CV Firebirds vs. Colorado Eagles
Wed. Nov 20 at 7 pm at Acrisure Arena - 10th Annual Cathedral City Hot Air Balloon Festival
Fri.–Sun. Nov 22–24 in Cathedral City & Rancho Mirage - McCormick’s 77th Auto Auction
Fri.–Sun. Nov 22–24 at the Palm Springs Convention Center - Bones-N-Scones Adoption Assistance Program Launch w/John Taylor
Sat. Nov 23 from 11 am–1 pm at Sun Center in Palm Springs - An Evening with LeAnn Rimes
Sat. Nov 23 at 5 pm at the Cathedral City Community Amphitheater - Desert Winds Freedom Band – Fiesta Latina
Sat. Nov 23 at 7 pm & Sun. Nov 24 at 2 pm at the Jewish Community Center - Broadway’s Come From Away
Nov 26–Dec 1 at the McCallum Theatre - Mary Poppins, presented by Palm Canyon Theatre
Nov 29–Dec 22 - Screening: Invisible Valley, presented by College of the Desert Foundation
Wed. Dec 4 at 5:30 pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center - Rock the Park: Hot August Night – A Tribute to Neil Diamond
Wed. Dec 4 at 7 pm at the Downtown Palm Springs Park - Holiday Banner Awards & Tree Lighting
Fri. Dec 6 from 4–5:30 pm at Frances Stevens Park - Nuncrackers, presented by Desert Theatreworks
Dec 6–29 at the Indio Performing Arts Center - Indio International Tamale Festival
Sat. & Sun., Dec 7–8 at Miles Avenue Park - Modern Men: Home for the Holidays
Sat. Dec 14 at 7 pm & Sun. Dec 15 at 3 pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center - 36th Annual Palm Springs International Film Festival and Awards
Jan 2–13, 2025 - Justin Timberlake – The Forget Tomorrow World Tour
Mon. Jan 20 at 7:30 pm at Acrisure Arena - 4th Annual Palm Springs Pinot Noir Festival
Fri. & Sat., Feb 2 & 3 at The Westin Rancho Mirage Golf Resort & Spa - Modernism Week 2024 – Tickets on Sale Nov 1
Feb 13–23
Hilton Palm Springs is a desert retreat in downtown Palm Springs, within streets of the main strip. Sherman’s Deli is across the street, and Palm Springs Convention Center is less than a mile away. The hotel features Elements Spa, views of the San Jacinto mountains, and an outdoor pool deck, and they provide free shuttle service to and from Palm Springs International Airport! Learn more
KGAY 106.5 & 92.1 FM
KGAY 106.5 and 92.1 wants you to WIN TICKETS to see Cyndi Lauper in her Girls Just Wanna Have Fun Farewell Tour on Sunday, November 24 at Acrisure Arena. The headlining tour – Lauper’s first major tour in a decade will feature American singer, actor, drag queen, and acclaimed “Skinny Legend,” Trixie Mattel, as a special guest. ENTER TO WIN on the KGAY Contest Page
The KGAY 106.5 & 92.1 Retro Lunch airs Monday through Friday from noon–1 pm, with DJ Galaxy (Vincent Corrales) and DJ Eric Ornelas playing an hour of their high-energy throwback mixes. On Sundays, we put all five hours together for the Retro Sunday Brunch from 11 am–4 pm. Perfect party music! The KGAY 106.5 Sunday Tea Dance with Modgirl airs every Sunday from 4–6 pm (right after the Retro Brunch). Listen to KGAY 106.5 online
103.1 MeTV FM
Santa Claus is coming to the Coachella Valley this Monday on 103.1 MeTV FM! He’s loaded up his sleigh and is on his way from the North Pole with your Timeless and Memorable Christmas favorites until Christmas Day! Spend the holiday season with ME! 103.1 MeTV FM is KGAY’s sister station, featuring timeless and memorable music including the ‘60s and ‘70s with a touch of the ‘50s and ‘80s. And hear “Goddard’s Gold” show on Sunday mornings 9a–12 noon. Listen online
103.1 MeTV FM has your chance to WIN TICKETS to WildLights at The Living Desert Zoo & Gardens, select nights from November 26–December 30! WildLights invites guests to see the Zoo in a whole new light: This year’s event features an enhanced light design with three million lights throughout the park, live nightly entertainment, Instagram-worthy festive photo ops, delectable wintertime treats, and much more. ENTER TO WIN on the 103.1 MeTV FM Contest Page!
You can WIN TICKETS to see Mary Poppins, presented by Palm Canyon Theatre from November 29–December 22. This musical invites us to London, England in 1910 where the magical Mary Poppins flies in on the wind, bringing with her a combination of whimsy and disciplined common sense to the Banks children’s lives. Together, they go on many fantastical and memorable adventures. ENTER TO WIN on the 103.1 MeTV FM Contest Page!
- Taking the Lead on LGBTQ+ Art: Three Artists Talk About the Palm Springs Art Museum’s Q+ Art Initiative—and an Exhibit of the Works of Gay Icon David Hockney
- Restaurant News Bites: Get a Taste of Shag House; a ‘Top Chef’ Opens a Restaurant in Indian Wells; and More!
- Broadway World Review: NEXT TO NORMAL at CVRep
- Feed Me! Revolution Stage Company’s Production of ‘Little Shop of Horrors’ Is a Pure Delight
- What’s New and Returning to Modernism Week 2025 this February in Palm Springs
Find out what’s happening on any given day by browsing our Gay Desert Guide Online Event Listing Calendar, and for the big picture, take a look at major upcoming events in our 2024-25 Coachella Valley Calendar of Events.
Listen to KGAY 106.5 and 92.1 over the air, stream it [here], or listen on TuneIn Radio with Alexa or Siri by saying “Play K-GAY 1065 from Tune In Radio.” John Taylor is on mornings 6–10 am and program director Chris Shebel is on afternoons. Our Retro Lunch with DJ Galaxy and DJ Eric Ornelas is now heard on Sundays as the Retro Lunch & Sunday Brunch from 11 am–4 pm, followed by Modgirl spinning the KGAY Sunday Tea Dance from 4–6 pm.
