Gay Desert Guide: Week of Jan 6, 2025

Queer, starring Daniel Craig, will debut Monday at the Palm Springs International Film Festival. The movie parallel’s what we see all too often here in the the valley – those May-December romances. That is a younger man (or woman) involved with an older lover. There are even apps for that: DaddyHunt, for example, where there are the “Hunter’s” and the “Daddy’s”.

Valerie Milano writes for The Hollywood Times and has generously shared many of her film reviews with you, dear readers, on Gay Desert Guide this year. Her take on Queer isn’t flattering, writing “There really isn’t much of a plot. We are offered a loose accumulation of incidents that ultimately add up to a kind of story.”

However, The Desert Sun’s Ema Sasic saw it much differently She writes, “While “Call Me By Your Name” was a tenderly handled coming-of-age love story, Guadagnino spares no sweat, spit or sloppy sound with “Queer.” 

I recommend the film for both Daniel Craig’s brilliant performance and for its beautiful production. Craig’s nomination for the best actor in a motion picture drama category marked his third Golden Globe nod. The movie will be followed by an extended post-screening Book to Screen discussion with screenwriter Justin Kuritzkes.

We highlight other LGBTQ films that are screening during the festival. But there are hundreds of cinema gems to choose from. So start your new year with any one of them. Maybe take your May-December “other half” along??

Brad Fuhr, your Gay Desert Guide on KGAY 106.5 Palm Springs

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DBA’s $25 for 2025 Celebration

Celebrate the New Year with the Desert Business Association $25 for 2025 Celebration on Monday, January 6 from 5–8 pm at Boozehounds. For just $25, DBA members and guests can toast to 2025 while honoring the resilience, innovation, and leadership of LGBTQ+ and Allied businesses that uplift the community. Enjoy a delicious Boozehounds Taco Bar and some local entertainment as we foster economic inclusion and celebrate the future together. Get tickets

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Palm Springs International Film Festival

The Palm Springs International Film Festival 2025 is underway from January 2–13 at multiple theaters across the valley. The festival features over 160 films from more than 70 countries; it’s a fantastic way to experience a diverse range of films from around the world, connect with filmmakers and stars, and immerse yourself in the year’s top offerings! Browse the Festival’s Film/Event Finder to filter by LGBTQ, Gay, and Lesbian titles (and many more). [Get tickets].

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Rock the Park: Led Zepagain

Rock the night away on Wednesday, January 8, as the acclaimed Led Zepagain tribute band takes the stage at downtown Palm Springs Park with Symphony to Heaven in the Rock the Park tribute band series! This free concert kicks off at 7 pm, promising an electrifying evening filled with the timeless hits of Led Zeppelin. Let the nostalgic tunes transport you back to the golden age of rock, and come back on the first Wednesday of every month through May for tributes to Fleetwood Mac, ABBA, Tim McGraw, and U2. More info

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Rod Stewart Tribute with The Desert Symphony

On Wednesday, January 9, The Desert Symphony presents Tonight’s The Night—The Rod Stewart Hybrid Tribute Band, featuring the uncanny talent of Rob Caudill, at 8 pm at the McCallum Theatre. Rob Caudill bears a remarkable resemblance to Rod Stewart, both in looks and vocals. Joined by legendary drummer Carmine Appice and Rod Stewart’s former sax player Katja Rieckermann, the band guarantees an authentic and unforgettable tribute performance. Get tickets

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Lunchtime Music Downtown

Starting Tuesday, January 7 from 11:30 am–12:30 pm, enjoy Lunchtime Music Downtown at the Welwood Murray Memorial Library in downtown Palm Springs. This weekly event in January features The Simon Duo—Adriana Simon (vocals) and Robert Simon (acoustic guitar). With over 15 years of performing experience, Adriana and Robert bring a mix of impressive technical skills and captivating vocals. Relax on the library’s patio with your lunch, coffee, or ice cream, and enjoy some delightful music. More info

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Backstreet Art District Art Walk

Kee Gallery and the Backstreet Art District present their monthly First Wednesday Art Walk on Wednesday January 8 this month (due to the 1st being a holiday) from 5–7 pm. Kee Gallery will have new work and a guest artist, Amelie Laurice. More info

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California Desert Plein Air Festival

From January 9–February 2, the California Desert Plein Air Festival will take place at the Artists Center in Palm Desert. This three-week event celebrates the tradition of painting the California desert landscape en plein air. The festival opens with four days of paint-outs at scenic locations such as Coachella Valley, Box Canyon, the Salton Sea, and the Mojave Desert. Over 80 artists will paint on site and submit their canvases for exhibition and judging. More info

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Neil Berg’s Fifty Years of Rock & Roll

The McCallum Theatre presents Neil Berg with Fifty Years of Rock & Roll – Part 4. The show features a new cast and takes place on Tuesday, January 7 at 7 pm and Wednesday, January 8 at 3 pm and 7 pm. Broadway rock musical talents and rock & roll singers will be backed by an all-star band, as Neil Berg shares stories from the fifty-year history of music. Expect tributes to iconic rock stars and genres, from the 1940s to the early 1980s. Get tickets

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ALSO THIS WEEK

Friday, January 10
Country Dance Fridays: Beginner Two Step with Rob Ollander-Krane | 7 pm at Step by Step

Saturday, January 11
World Desert Day | 9 am–1 pm at The Living Desert Zoo & Gardens
SŌL Barre Studio Open House | 9:30 am–12:30 pm
Comedy Workshop with Mina Hartong | Sat & Sun 1:30–4:30 pm at PS Library
Opening of “Dots, Knots, Relics” (Modern textiles) | 5–8 pm at Rubine Red Gallery
One Vision of Queen feat. Marc Martel | 8 pm at The Show

Sunday, January 12
Vedic Astrology Master Class | 3–5 pm at Khaga Yoga Palm Springs

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THIS WEEKEND

Pride Night at Acrisure Arena

Celebrate Pride Night on Saturday, January 11, as the Coachella Valley Firebirds take on the Chicago Wolves at Acrisure Arena at 6 pm. Presented by Silvercrest, this inclusive event promises a welcoming atmosphere for all. Enjoy exciting pre-game plaza events, a Pride Logo Blanket Giveaway, and more! Come support The LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert while cheering on the Firebirds as they heat up the ice. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the organization. Get tickets

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This Weekend at The McCallum

Friday, January 10: Join the John Pizzarelli Trio at 8 pm for a night of jazz and the Great American Songbook, featuring music by legends like Paul McCartney, Joni Mitchell, and more. Get tickets

Saturday, January 11: Experience the high-energy performance of Charo at 8 pm, with her award-winning Flamenco guitar playing. The evening also features comedian and musician Gary Mule Deer, known for his unique blend of comedy and music. Get tickets

Sunday, January 12: Enjoy Mozart & Friends at 3 pm, where Jeffrey Siegel will present masterpieces by Mozart and other influential composers like Haydn and Beethoven, offering fascinating stories and beautiful music. Get tickets

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Andrea McArdle – Confessions Of A Broadway Baby

The Purple Room Supper Club presents Andrea McArdle with Confessions Of A Broadway Baby on Friday and Saturday, January 10 and 11. This legendary Broadway star will captivate audiences with the music of Stephen Sondheim, Kander and Ebb, Jerry Herman, and more. Known for her defining Broadway voice, Andrea will share tales from her unique life on stage and perform iconic show stoppers. Dinner at 6 pm, show at 8 pm. Get tickets

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THRIVE: A Path to Well-Being

The L-Fund is hosting its 1st Annual THRIVE event on Saturday, January 11, from 10 am–2 pm at the Annenberg Health Sciences Building in Eisenhower Medical Center. This free event, designed for cis, trans, and queer-identifying lesbians, aims to empower attendees on their journey to a healthier, more vibrant life. It features expert workshops, insightful discussions, and opportunities to connect with resources and exhibitors. Registration is required. More info

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Brothers of the Desert Monthly Meeting

Join the Brothers of the Desert Monthly Meeting on Saturday, January 11, from 11 am–noon at the LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert. This in-person gathering on the 3rd floor offers members a chance to discuss recent and upcoming events, share organizational updates, celebrate achievements, and connect with new and existing members. It’s a great opportunity for networking and building community. More info

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LEZ Party: Bring on 2025!

Palm Springs Promote invites you to the “LEZ Party” on Sunday, January 12 from 3–7 pm at Low Desert Restaurant & Bar in Smoketree Plaza. Celebrate the start of the new year with a guest DJ spinning tunes, delicious food, and crafted cocktails. Sip, savor, dance and groove while supporting DAP Health with a $10 cash door fee. More info

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Get our Free Visitor Map & Guide

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!

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LOOKING AHEAD

From Resilience to Action

In partnership with Equality California, The LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert is organizing From Resilience to Action on Monday, January 13 from 5–6:30 pm at the Palm Springs Pavilioin. This powerful gathering is aimed at mobilizing our LGBTQ+ community and allies to turn resilience into impactful advocacy. We will learn in greater detail the potential threats to our community and focus on translating our strength and resilience into concrete actions to protect and advance LGBTQ+ rights. RSVP requested. More info

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• Rock the Park: Led Zepagain, a Led Zeppelin Tribute Band
  Wed. Jan 8 at 7 pm at Downtown Palm Springs Park
• Tonight’s The Night – The Rod Stewart Hybrid Tribute Band
  Thu. Jan 9 at 8 pm at the McCallum Theatre
• Pride Night with the Coachella Valley Firebirds
  Sat. Jan 11 at 6 pm at Acrisure Arena
• John Pizzarelli Trio (Fri), Charo (Sat), Jeffrey Siegel (Sun)
  Jan 10–12 at the McCallum Theatre
• From Resilience to Action
  Mon. Jan 13 from 5–6:30 pm, at Palm Springs Pavilion
• Fat Ham, presented by Dezart Performs
  Jan 17–Jan 26 at the Pearl McManus Theater
• Legally Blonde The Musical, presented by Desert Theatreworks
  Jan 17–Feb 9 at the Indio Performing Arts Center
• The Skivvies: ICONIQUE!
  Fri. & Sat. Jan 17 & 18 at The Purple Room Supper Club
• Justin Timberlake – The Forget Tomorrow World Tour
  Mon. Jan 20 at 7:30 pm at Acrisure Arena
• Southwest Arts Festival
  Jan 23–26 at Empire Polo Grounds, Indio
• Palm Springs Health Run & Wellness Festival
  Sat. Jan 25 from 8 am–1 pm at Ruth Hardy Park
• 27th Annual Tour de Palm Springs
  Feb 7 & 8 in downtown Palm Springs
• Modernism Week – 20th Anniversary
  Feb 13–23
• Fashion Week El Paseo
  Mar 14–19 at The Gardens on El Paseo
• Palm Desert Food & Wine
  Mar 20–23 at The Gardens on El Paseo
• Tour Norway with Patrick Evans
  Jul 25–Aug 2 Collette Travel