A cursory glance at the “dating apps” for gay men and it’s no wonder that STIs and STDs continue to flourish in the Coachella Valley.
Every weekend there’s a huge influx of visitors from all over the world to the Coachella Valley. In the course of year, over 14 million people visit the Coachella Valley; over 6 million stay overnight.
That’s a lot of opportunity for hanky-panky.
In the aftermath, sexually transmitted infections come and go among our residents and long term guests. That means a strain on a healthcare system that for the most part doesn’t grapple with the enormity of the situation.
Desert AIDS Project took the bull by the horns a decade ago with its “Get Tested Coachella Valley” Progam. But with the absorption of Borrego Health, their focus has changed. Filling the void is PS Test, who operates on a shoestring budget and relies on donations since their grant funding recently went away.
I sit on their board of directors and wanted to invite you to Thursday’s PS Test Fest at Toucans. We’ve secured dozens of silent auction donations for you to bid on while enjoying cocktails and some entertainment. I hope you’ll stop by and help support PS Test, and take advantage of their services should the occasion arise…
Brad Fuhr, your Gay Desert Guide on KGAY 106.5 Palm Springs
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Rock the Park: Fleetwood Mac Tribute
It’s the first Wednesday of the month and time to Rock the Park on Wednesday, February 5 at 7 pm when Twisted Gypsy, a Fleetwood Mac Tribute band, takes the stage at the Downtown Palm Springs Park. Don’t miss out on the classic melodies and energetic performance that will transport you back to the golden era of rock. Grab your friends, family, and a cozy blanket and be part of this musical celebration under the stars. More info
PS Test Fest
Join PS Test for an evening of health and community at PS Test Fest on Thursday, February 6 from 5:30–7:30 pm at Toucans. PS Test is a nonprofit dedicated to sexual health and this event aims to support their mission of providing free, anonymous, and confidential STI testing and treatment, along with vital sexual health education to communities in Riverside County and beyond. The evening will feature a silent auction, with proceeds helping to continue their important work. More info
Meet Patrick Evans & Discover Norway at The Purple Room
Join 103.1 MeTV FM’s Patrick Evans at The Purple Room Supper Club on Monday, February 3, from 4:30–6 pm for an exciting event where you’ll get the chance to learn how you can join him on the upcoming Tour of Norway. Scheduled for July 25 to August 2, 2025, this journey promises breathtaking landscapes, majestic mountains, glacial fjords, and legendary sights, including the iconic Oslo and charming towns of Bergen and Loen. Patrick Evans and a Collette representative will be on hand to share details and answer any questions. More info
Positive Life Series: Nutrition and HIV
On Tuesday, February 4, the Positive Life Series will feature a discussion on Nutrition and HIV, led by Charlie Mueller, RD. This insightful event will take place at 6 pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center (also on Zoom). Note that this month’s series is scheduled later than usual due to the Palm Springs Film Festival. Join in to gain valuable knowledge and support in addressing this important health topic. Upcoming topics include: Neurological Complicaitons of HIV (Mar 4), Anal Cancer Screening (Apr 1), CROI Update (May 6), and Body Dysmorphia (Jun 2). More info
Stephen Harper, Former P.M. of Canada
The Desert Town Hall Speaker Series continues at the Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa on Friday, February 7 at 5 pm. This month’s distinguished speaker is Stephen J. Harper, former Prime Minister of Canada, who will share his insights on geopolitical, economic, and security challenges. Harper, who led Canada for nearly a decade, is also the founder and CEO of Harper & Associates and a renowned author and speaker. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from one of the world’s leading political figures and engage in intellectual discussions. Get tickets
This Week at the McCallum Theatre
This week at the McCallum Theatre promises a diverse and captivating lineup of performances. On Monday, February 3 at 7 pm, Jazz at Lincoln Center Presents: New Orleans Songbook brings the soul of New Orleans to Palm Desert, celebrating the city’s historic jazz composers and timeless songs with infectious energy. On Thursday, February 6 at 7 pm, GRAMMY Award-winning vocalist Steve Tyrell returns to the McCallum Theatre after a three-year hiatus, performing his unique renditions of classic pop standards. Finally, on Friday and Saturday, February 7 & 8 at 7:30 pm, A Night on the Red Carpet features the McCallum Theatre Orchestra under the direction of GRAMMY Award-winning Maestro Richard Kaufman, performing iconic music from Oscar-nominated and Oscar-winning films. Get tickets
Perfect Arrangement
THE BENT presents Perfect Arrangement from February 6–16 at the Palm Springs Cultural Center. Inspired by the true story of the earliest stirrings of the gay rights movement. This hard to believe but historically accurate tale merges madcap sitcom-style laughs with provocative drama as two closeted U.S. State Department employees struggle to maintain their cover – and their sanity – in 1950s America, a world recently depicted in Matt Bomer’s Fellow Travelers. These married co-workers not only share a secret, they are also next door neighbors who share a wall. Get tickets
The Light in the Piazza
CVRep presents The Light in the Piazza from January 22–February 9. Winner of six Tony Awards & five Drama Desk Awards, The Light in the Piazza takes us to the Tuscan countryside where, a beautiful, surprisingly childish young woman loses her hat in a sudden gust. As if guided by the hand of the Sistine Chapel, the hat lands at the feet of a handsome young Florentine man. But as events unfold and secrets are revealed, we follow a love story unlike any other. Filled with a beautiful blend of classical and Broadway melodies, our theatre reviewer Stephen Radosh says “This is a beautiful production of a not-often-produced musical and deserves a date on your calendar.” Read his full review and Get tickets
Desert Art Center Mid Mod Show
Celebrate the elegance of mid-century modernism at the Desert Art Center Mid Mod Show from February 7–23 during Modernism Week in Palm Springs. Join on Friday, February 7, from 5–7 pm for the opening of this vibrant exhibition that showcases contemporary and retro-inspired art reflecting the sleek lines, dynamic patterns, and timeless charm of the mid-century era. This event brings the spirit of innovation and creativity of the mid-century movement to life for a modern audience. More info
Black History Month Kick-off at the PS Art Museum
Celebrate the start of Black History Month at the Palm Springs Art Museum on Thursday, February 6 from 5:30–8 pm. Enjoy an evening filled with music and art, featuring performances by the Palm Springs High School Choir and Strings, along with a special Black History Month mural by artist Tysen Knight. Explore the museum’s exhibitions and connect with the vibrant Black community in this inspiring kickoff event. More info
Cinema Francais
Immerse yourself in the world of French cinema at Cinema Français hosted by the Palm Springs Cultural Center. Starting on Thursday, February 6 at 7 pm with the screening of The Marching Band, this four-day festival features new, award-winning French films—all Palm Springs premieres. Enjoy eight features and shorts in French with English subtitles, showcasing the best of contemporary French filmmaking. Get tickets
Forever Marilyn Lighting Up Red
On Friday, February 7 from 6–6:30 pm, the iconic Marilyn Monroe statue, “Forever Marilyn,” will light up red to raise awareness about heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular diseases. This event is part of the American Heart Association’s annual Wear Red Day, which aims to educate the public on the importance of preventing cardiovascular diseases through awareness and positive lifestyle changes. More info
Legally Blonde The Musical
Desert Theatreworks presents Legally Blonde The Musical from January 17–February 9. Follow Elle Woods as she takes on Harvard Law, fueled by the desire to win back her ex-boyfriend. With infectious energy and catchy tunes, the show captures Elle’s journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Along the way, she faces challenges from peers, professors, and her former flame, but with the help of newfound friends, she proves her resilience and determination. Get tickets
Honky Tonk Angels
Desert Theatreworks presents Honky Tonk Angels, a musical extravaganza, from February 1–March 30 at the Black Box Theatre. This lively show features three fearless women from diverse backgrounds chasing their dreams to Nashville. With 30 timeless country hits like “Stand By Your Man,” “9 to 5,” and “Harper Valley PTA,” this toe-tapping journey celebrates sisterhood, resilience, and the power of music. Get tickets
ALSO THIS WEEK
Tuesday, February 4
Boston Brass Live in Concert | 7 pm at Richards Center for the Arts
Wednesday, February 5
Prescott Preserve Guided Hike | 10–11 am at Prescott Preserve Loop
Mizell Business Partner Expo | 10:30 am–1:30 pm at Mizell Center
Rancho Mirage Writers Festival | Wed, Thu & Fri at Rancho Mirage Library & Observatory
February Art Walk at Kee Gallery | 5–7 pm at Backstreet Art District
Emmet Cahill in Concert | 7 pm at St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church
Thursday, February 6
Artists Council Exhibition Opening Reception | 5–7 pm at Artists Center, Palm Desert
Friday, February 7
Palm Springs Readers’ Festival | Fri, Sat, Sun at Hotel Zoso
International Desert Conservation Summit | Fri, Sat, Sun at The Living Desert
Saturday, February 8
Dr. George Charity Car Show | 9 am–3 pm at Indian Wells Tennis Garden
Parkinson’s Today: An Educational Symposium | 9 am–2 pm at UCR Palm Desert
Quarterly Art Exhibit | Sat. & Sun. from 10 am–4 pm at Cathedral City Public Library
3rd Annual Lunar Fest at The River | 11 am–6 pm
Country Dance Saturdays: Beginner East Coast Swing with Lise Baadh | 7 pm at Step by Step
Smokey Robinson Legacy Tour | 8 pm at The Show
Sunday, February 9
Desert Winds Jazz Band Gala Fundraiser | 11–1:30 pm
PSLOD Desert Bloom 2 | 12–5 pm at Club 541
PS Concerts: The Euclid Quartet | 1 pm at Richards Center for the Arts
February at JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort
Valentine’s Day Inspired Spa Treatments | Feb 3–28
Set Sail with “Love Boat” Romance Experience | Fri & Sat throughout February
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!
THIS WEEKEND
27th Annual Tour de Palm Springs
The 27th Annual Tour de Palm Springs is Friday and Saturday, February 7 & 8. This premier event celebrates cycling, community, and charitable giving while honoring military, first responders, and veterans. Held in downtown Palm Springs, this charity fun ride and walk is perfect for all fitness levels. All ride participants will be automatically entered to win a free Retrospec bike valued at $500! Special guest Mädchen Amick, acclaimed actress from Twin Peaks and Riverdale, will join the festivities. The Expo and Beer Garden are open Friday from 12–8 pm, with a Pasta Dinner from 4–8 pm. On Saturday, the ride times start at 6:30 am, 8 am, and 9 am, the Expo runs from 6:30 am–4 pm, with the Beer Garden open from 12–4 pm. Enjoy entertainment from over 20 bands (including the Desert Winds Freedom Band from 1:30–2:30 pm) throughout the event and at ride rest areas, too. More info
Victory in Palm Springs 2025
The Victory in Palm Springs 2025 event is on Saturday, February 8, from 11 am–2 pm. Hosted by the LGBTQ+ Victory Fund, this gathering brings together elected officials, leaders, and allies from across California to celebrate LGBTQ+ political power and support LGBTQ+ candidates. Former White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre will be the special keynote speaker. Get tickets
Puff, Pass, Touchdown: The Big Game at Double Eye
Join Double Eye Dispensary & Lounge for Puff, Pass, Touchdown – The Big Game on Sunday, February 9 at 3:30 pm. Experience the ultimate game day with pre-game sessions, halftime hits, and no penalties for excessive celebration. Enjoy gift bags for the first 30 customers with purchase, sponsored by Almora, and munchies to keep you fueled through the game. Catch every moment of the action in Palm Springs’ and Cathedral City’s premier cannabis consumption lounge. More info
Gay Softball Tryouts
Join the Palm Springs Gay Softball League for their Spring 2025 tryouts and clinics on Sunday, February 9, and Saturday, February 15, both at 9 am. Held at DeMuth Park in Palm Springs on Field #7, these clinics welcome all players, regardless of identity or experience. Meet new friends, assess your skill level, and get assigned to a team that matches your abilities. Whether you’re a beginner, haven’t played in a long time, or want to play competitively, there’s a place for you in the league. More info
The Art Behind the Scarf
The Art Behind the Scarf Trunk Show Opening Reception is Saturday, February 8 from 2–8 pm at Rubine Red Gallery. In collaboration with the Vera Neumann Estate, this event celebrates the unique sense of style and color that propelled Vera Neumann to fashion stardom from the 1940s to the 1980s. The exhibition showcases her original watercolors and vintage scarves, making fine art accessible to everyone. Don’t miss the opening of this special Modernism Week show and experience the radiant spirit of Vera Neumann in the Uptown Art District. The exhibition continues until March 3. More info
Radical Harmonies Screening
Join the Palm Springs Cultural Center for a special screening of Radical Harmonies on Saturday, February 8, from 3–5 pm. Directed by Academy Award-nominated filmmaker Dee Mosbacher, this documentary chronicles the Women’s Music Cultural Movement and its significant impact on the music industry and women’s roles in culture from the 1960s to the 1990s. Through festival and performance footage, interviews, and archival material, Radical Harmonies delves into a musical culture committed to feminism, diversity, equity, and inclusion. Get tickets
Journey Tribute at The Gardens on El Paseo
The Gardens on El Paseo 27th Annual Concert Series continues on Saturday, February 8 at 4 pm with Classic Journey (Journey Tribute), benefiting Pegasus Riding. Reserve your tickets now and wine down on the Center Lawn, Saturday evenings to support your community. Upcoming benefit shows include: Rolling Stones Tribute (2/15), John Stanley King Band (2/22), Jimmy Buffett Tribute (3/1), and Rod Stewart Tribute (3/8). Get tickets
Big Game Day Parties at Agua Caliente Casinos
Gear up for the Big Game Day Parties at Agua Caliente Casinos on Sunday, February 9 from 2–5 pm. Join the excitement at 360 Sports locations in Palm Springs, Rancho Mirage, and Cathedral City. Reserve your seat for the biggest game of the year and enjoy wraparound screens, delicious food, and special viewing party packages including a gift card, free play, priority seating, and game day swag. Don’t miss out on the ultimate game day experience. More info
LOOKING AHEAD
Soak, Sip & Paint
The Coachella Valley Cannabis Alliance Network (CVCAN) is hosting a “Soak, Sip & Paint” event on Monday, February 10 from 4–8 pm at the Miracle Springs Resort in Desert Hot Springs. Guests can enjoy a rejuvenating soak in the mineral-rich pools, followed by a delightful tasting of fine wines and THC-infused cocktails. The highlight of the event is a guided painting session where attendees can unleash their inner artist with the help of an experienced instructor. Get tickets
DBA Mixer at Low Desert Modern Mexican
Join the Desert Business Association for the February DBA Mixer at Low Desert/Modern Mexican on Monday, February 10 from 5:30–7 pm. This event offers an evening of networking and delicious food. Enjoy a variety of standard Mexican dishes, as well as unique vegan and vegetarian options. DBA members attend for free, while future members can join for $20. Those who stay for dinner after the event will receive 10% off of their meal. More info
The Children’s Hour – A Staged Reading
THE BENT presents a staged reading of The Children’s Hour on Tuesday and Wednesday, February 11 & 12 at 7 pm. This playreading series features the 1934 groundbreaking lesbian play by Lillian Hellman. Set in an all-girls boarding school, an accusation of a lesbian affair leads to the destruction of two headmistresses’ careers, relationships, and lives. Despite being nearly 90 years old, this powerful story remains relevant today. Get tickets
Red Dress Tickets on Sale February 12
Don’t miss the highly anticipated Red Dress/Dress Red Dance Party on Saturday, March 15 from 8 pm–Midnight at the Palm Springs Air Museum. Tickets go on sale on Wednesday, February 12 and are expected to sell out fast, so mark your calendar! This event, featuring a stunning venue and a great cause, has become a highlight of the Palm Springs social scene, raising support for The LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert’s programs. Dress in red to show unity, solidarity, and community, and get ready for an unforgettable night. More info
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!
- Tour of Norway: Meet Patrick Evans
Mon. Feb 3 from 4:30–6 pm at The Purple Room Supper Club - Rock the Park: Twisted Gypsy – Fleetwood Mac Tribute
Wed. Feb 5 at 7 pm at Downtown Palm Springs Park - PS Test Fest Cocktail Party & Silent Auction
Thu. Feb 6 at 5:30 pm at Toucans Tiki Lounge - The Light in the Piazza, presented by CVRep
Jan 22–Feb 9 - Perfect Arrangement, presented by The Bent
Thu. Feb 6 at 7 pm at Palm Springs Cultural Center - Stephen Harper, Former Canadian Prime Minister
Fri. Feb 7 at 5 pm at the Renaissance Esmeralda Resort - Legally Blonde The Musical, presented by Desert Theatreworks
Jan 17–Feb 9 at the Indio Performing Arts Center - 27th Annual Tour de Palm Springs
Feb 7 & 8 in downtown Palm Springs - LGBTQ+ Victory Fund w/Keynote from Karine Jean-Pierre
Sat. Feb 8 from 11 am–2 pm in Palm Springs - Radical Harmonies Screening (Women’s Music Cultural Movement)
Sat. Feb 8 at 3 pm at Palm Springs Cultural Center - The Art Behind the Scarf – Textile Design of Fashion Icon Vera Neumann
Feb 8–Mar 3 at Rubine Red Gallery - Palm Springs Gay Softball League Tryouts & Clinics
Sun. Feb 9 at 9 am at Demuth Park - Soak, Sip & Paint at Miracle Springs Resort
Mon. Feb 10 from 4–8 pm - All About Bette, An Interlude with Bette Davis with Morgana Shaw
Tue. Feb 11 at 7 pm at Palm Springs Cultural Center - Tastes and Sounds of Cathedral City
Feb 11–Apr 8, Tuesdays from 5:30–7:30 pm at Cathedral City Amphitheater - The Children’s Hour, a Staged Reading presented by THE BENT
Tue. & Wed., Feb 11 & 12 - The Desert Symphony: Ones – The Beatles #1 Hits
Thu. Feb 13 at 8 pm at the McCallum Theatre - Modernism Week – 20th Anniversary
Feb 13–23 - Palm Springs Modernism Show
Feb 14–17 at the Palm Springs Convention Center - Riverside County Fair & National Date Festival
Feb 13–Mar 2 at Riverside County Fairgrounds, Indio - Out at the Fair at the Riverside County Fair
Sat. Feb 15 at Riverside County Fairgrounds, Indio - Rhythms at the Riviera – “Elton” with Kenny Metcalf and the Early Years Band
Sat. Feb 15 at 8 pm at the Riviera Resort & Spa - Racist Trees Documentary Screening
Sun. Feb 16 at 3 pm at Palm Springs Cultural Center - Sazerac Premium Bourbon Tasting
Mon. Feb 17 from 6–8 pm at The Purple Room Supper Club - Dear Evan Hansen
Feb 21–23 at the McCallum Theatre - “Don’t Bring the Kids” by Lady Bunny
Fri. Feb 21 at 7 pm at Palm Springs Cultural Center - Ben Jones: TEMPTATION
Fri. & Sat., Feb 21 & 22 at The Purple Room Supper Club - Annual Desert Pet Walk
Sat. Feb 22 from 9 am–Noon - An Evening with John Cameron Mitchell
Fri. Feb 28 from 5:30–9 pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center - Cathedral City LGBT+ Days
Mar 7–10 at Cathedral City Civic Center Plaza - Desert X 2025
Mar 8–May 12 at Various Locations Throughout Coachella Valley - Fashion Week El Paseo
Mar 14–19 at The Gardens on El Paseo - Red Dress Dress Red Party (Tickets on Sale Feb 12)
Sat. Mar 15 from 8 pm–Midnight at the Palm Springs Air Museum - Palm Desert Food & Wine
Mar 20–23 at The Gardens on El Paseo - Billy Idol: It’s a Nice Day To…Tour Again!
Fri. Sep 12 at 7:30 pm at Acrisure Arena
KGAY 106.5 & 92.1 FM
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). All our DJs took honors in the Best of Coachella Valley this year! Listen to KGAY 106.5 online
Celebrate Community at the 3rd Annual OUT AT THE FAIR at Riverside County Fair & National Date Festival presented on Saturday, February 15 [More info]. This is the first Pride Day of the year in California! Enjoy an exciting lineup including performances by KINGQUEEN, Mariachi Arco-Iris de Los Angeles, The Glam Show with RuPaul’s Drag Race stars, and the OutAt After Dark dance party. Also, don’t miss OATF® Bingo hosted by Deven Green and Ned. YOU CAN WIN a 4 pack of tickets and a parking pass, courtesy of KGAY 106.5 and 92.1! – Enter to Win on the KGAY 106.5 & 92.1 Contest Page
Win tickets to see My Fair Lady at the Palm Canyon Theatre, courtesy of KGAY 106.5 and 92.1! Running from February 7–March 2, this timeless musical, based on George Bernard Shaw’s play Pygmalion, features one of musical theatre’s greatest scores [More info]. Follow the enchanting transformation of Eliza Doolittle, a low-class flower girl, into an elegant lady under the tutelage of Professor Henry Higgins. Enter to Win on the KGAY 106.5 & 92.1 Contest Page
KGAY Wants to Hear From YOU!
As a KGAY 106.5 & 92.1 listener, you’re probably aware that we’ve been working hard to stay ahead of rapid changes in the radio and technology landscape. Our goal is to continue to provide great content the way that you want it on the platforms you use most often, so we’re inviting you to share your opinions about technology in our annual survey. Tell us how you use the radio, along with social media, smartphones, tablets, streaming and the web to stay connected to entertainment, news, and updates from KGAY and other sources. We hope you’ll find it to be an interesting way to reflect on your own changing habits as a KGAY fan and radio listener! Take the survey
103.1 MeTV FM
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. Listen online
Enter 103.1 MeTV FM‘s ticket giveaway contest for a chance to win tickets to Ones – The Beatles #1 Hits, with The Desert Symphony on Thursday, February 13 from 8–10 pm! [More info]. This spectacular show, hailed as “the most exciting Beatles presentation in decades,” features every number one song, accompanied by stunning visuals and narrations. On stage, top musicians faithfully recreate the original hits with period-correct instruments and top vocalists. Don’t miss this must-see event for every Beatles fan, playing. Enter to Win on the 103.1 MeTV FM Contest Page
- Palm Springs to Honor Black History Month, February 2025
- Modernism Week 2025 Offers Abundant Live Entertainment
- Restaurant News Bites: Get Ready for Various Food Fests; Alice B. Owners Help L.A. Fire Victims; and More!
- TRU – Reviewed by Stephen Radosh
- THE LIGHT IN THE PIAZZA – Reviewed by Stephen Radosh
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 2025 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.