Greater Palm Springs was well represented on the Brandg Vacations cruise, which included Amsterdam Pride. I got most of our peeps together for a photo, which I wanted to share today.
Travel is a wonderful way to get to meet new people and discover that others have been right under Marilyn’s skirt all along. (That’s to say there were a number of “locals” on the cruise whom I did not know.)
I’ve opined about summer vacation over the past few blogs, but my thoughts are now firmly in what the fall season brings for our valley: From Modernism Week – October to Palm Springs Pride, we’ll have much to look forward to in the coming weeks. Plus, the once dread about our upcoming election is turning into anticipation.
And I hope to see you at Living Out on Wednesday for the Art Walk featuring dozens of local LGBTQ+ artists. As you may have read, I’m moving in for “A Year of Living Out” to help promote the new development. As I get settled, I’ll be sharing stories and video from residents as well as eating many a meal at Alice B.!
Brad Fuhr, your Gay Desert Guide on KGAY 106.5 Palm Springs
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DBA Mixer at Silvercrest
Join the Desert Business Association (DBA) for their Networking Mixer on Monday, August 12 from 5:30–7 pm at the headquarters of Silvercrest, a full service marketing and advertising company that works with businesses to help them grow their business and reach their customers. Demonstrating a strong commitment to the community, they actively support local nonprofits while providing opportunities for businesses to network and collaborate. More info
Living Out Art Walk
Celebrate art and community at the Living Out Art Walk on Wednesday, August 14, from 5–7 pm. This free event showcases over 300 works by 42 LGBTQ+ Coachella Valley artists, offering an up-close look at Palm Spring’s new “it” address. Mingle with fellow art enthusiasts, enjoy refreshing cocktails by Alice B, and discover the vibrant artistic landscape of the Coachella Valley in an evening of artistic expression and connection. More info
Trans & Nonbinary Tuesday
The Transgender Health & Wellness Center presents Trans & Nonbinary Tuesday Palm Springs on August 13 from 6–8 pm at Eight4Nine Restaurant. Come together at this inclusive event with fellow trans and nonbinary individuals to share experiences, build support networks, and enjoy delicious food and drink. More info
Drag Queen Bingo Benefiting PSGMC
Get ready for a night of laughter, fun, and fabulous prizes as Chill Bar presents Drag Queen Bingo on Thursday, August 15 from 6–8 pm, with host Sabryna Williams hosting this benefit for the Palm Springs Gay Men’s Chorus. Play 4 games for just $20. More info
Out on the Mountain
Six Flags Magic Mountain’s Out on the Mountain is a private LGBTQ party where the park is closed to the general public from 6 pm–midnight on Friday, August 16. Scream your heart out on your favorite thrill rides like Wonder Woman Flight of Courage, West Coast Racers, Full Throttle, X2 and many more. Enjoy dance parties with performances from Kylie Sonique Love and Luxx Noir London plus DJ Ray Rhodes, DJ SRO, and DJ Les Ortiz. Your ticket also gets you admission to the park with the general public from 10:30 am–6 pm. Get tickets
Big Bear Romp
Big Bear Romp takes place this Thursday–Friday, August 15–18 at The Lodge at Big Bear Lake. This weekend getaway features pool parties, bowling, decadent dance events, ROMP in the Dark leather party, comedy night with Aiko Tanaka, Bitchy Bingo with Chiklet, and more. Mingle with fellow bears, cubs, and friends, explore the natural beauty of Big Bear Lake, and party under the stars. Get tickets
Beat the Desert Heat with a Tramway Adventure
Escape the summer sun and ascend to cooler heights with the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, where you can enjoy guided nature walks at 11 am and 1:30 pm every Sunday this month [More info], or choose to explore the mountain’s trails at your own pace. But hurry – the tramway closes for annual maintenance on September 9. Enter our 4-pack ticket giveaway for a chance to experience this breathtaking journey before it’s too late! Visit the contest pages for KGAY 106.5 and 103.1 MeTV FM
ALSO THIS WEEK
Tuesday, August 13
Hot Summer Nights – Season Ender | 7:30–10:30 pm at Palm Desert Aquatic Center
Wednesday, August 14
PALS Circle | 6–7 pm on Zoom
The Dreamboats | 7 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs
Thursday, August 15
An Evening of Elegance with Ginger Collins | 7 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs
Friday, August 16
Friday Night Vibes Pool Party | 6–9 pm at Hotel Zoso
Comedy Night at Hotel Zoso | 9 pm
Saturday, August 17
Rod Stewart (sold out) | 8 pm at The Show
Sunday, August 18
Summer Concert Film Series: Woodstock (1970) | 6 pm at Palm Springs Cultural Center
The Coachella Valley Independent‘s annual Best of Coachella Valley reader’s poll is now accepting nominations, a fill-in-the-blank round that is open through through Friday, Aug. 30. We would love a repeat of our wins last year! Write-in your nominations for Best Local DJ under the “Arts” section: KGAY 106.5 Retro Lunch Djs: DJ Eric Ornelas and DJ Galaxy, and DJ Modgirl of the KGAY Sunday Tea Dance! Then, under the “Life in the Valley” section, for Best Local Radio Personality please consider John Taylor of the KGAY 106.5 Morning Show, and finally, also under “Life in the Valley,” for Best Radio Station, please nominate KGAY 106.5 of course! Nominate Today
Visitor Map & Guide Summer 2024 Edition
Check out our Summer 2024 KGAY 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 of our printed version around town if you’re here, or if planning a visit, you can download it right here, right now!
THIS WEEKEND
Splash House Weekend 2
Splash House returns to Palm Springs for the second of this summer’s two unforgettable weekends of poolside house, disco, and electronic music, this Friday–Sunday, August 16–18. Dance the days away at pool parties across three iconic resorts—the Renaissance, the Saguaro and Margaritaville—then groove under the stars at the legendary After Hours event at the Palm Springs Air Museum. Splash House 2024’s second weekend features AC Slater, Chris Lorenzo, DR. Fresch, Meduza, Patrock Topping, SG Lewis, Austin Millz, Biscits, Girl Math, LF System, and many more for a poolside dance party extravaganza. Get tickets
Clear the Shelter Adoption Event
Open your heart and your home this Saturday & Sunday, August 17 & 18 at the Palm Springs Animal Shelter’s “Clear the Shelter” event. All adoption fees will be waived from 10 am–5 pm (Sat) and 11 am–5 pm (Sun), giving countless deserving dogs, cats, and other companions a chance to find their forever families. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the joy of adoption and give a deserving animal a loving home. More info
Cocktails and Culinary Series: Japanese Night
JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa’s Cocktails & Culinary Series presents Japanese Night on Saturday, August 17 from 5–7 pm. Check out this fun and informative cooking class – fresh flavors and delicious results await! The brainchild of the property’s Executive Chef Eric Theiss, the culinary workshop series is at the hotel’s renowned T&T Innovation Kitchen, which has long been known for its creative and locally sourced organic fare. Up next: Noche Española (August 24). More info
Star Wars Saga – Star Wars Episode VI: The Return of the Jedi
The Palm Springs Cultural Center is bringing you the full Star Wars Saga in epic big-screen glory, unfolding one film at a time, every Summer Saturday at 6 pm with a pre-show and cocktails starting at 5 pm. This Saturday, August 17, the series continues with Star Wars Episode VI: The Return of the Jedi. Get tickets
LOOKING AHEAD
Palm Springs Gay Men’s Chorus Auditions
The Palm Springs Gay Men’s Chorus is holding auditions on Tuesday, August 20 by appointment from 6–8 pm at Mizell Center. PSGMC strives to create a comfortable and supportive environment for their auditions, in a private setting with only the artistic director, accompanist, and potentially small group directors present. Feel free to prepare your own song or let their talented pianist assist you in finding the perfect key. There will be an additional opportunity to audition on Tuesday, August 27 from 8:45–10 pm, following an open rehearsal that starts at 7 pm. More info
The Purple Room Fall 2024 Season Tickets on Sale
Michael Holmes’ Purple Room Supper Club is excited to announce that tickets are on sale for the Fall 2024 season, with a sizzling lineup of stars! The valley’s coolest performance space has a roster of stars certain to sell out quickly. Catch acts like Elvis: The Early Years (Sept 6), Debby Holiday (Sept 7), Jackie Beat & Sherry Vine (Sept 13), Jane Monheit (Sept 20-21), and Clint Holmes (Sept 28). Get tickets
Modernism Week – October: Tickets on Sale Now
Modernism Week, the annual festival that highlights midcentury modern architecture, art, interior and landscape design, and vintage culture, presents Modernism Week – October from Thursday, October 24–Sunday, October 27. While smaller in scope than the 11-day festival held annually each February, the October event will offer nearly 50 events over four days, including many free and low-cost programs. Get tickets
Palm Springs Film Festival Passes on Sale
The 2025 Palm Springs International Film Festival is set to illuminate the desert from January 2–13. This prestigious event will showcase a dazzling array of international films, captivating audiences with diverse stories and groundbreaking talent. The highly anticipated and glitzy Film Awards Ceremony is Friday, January 3, where Hollywood’s brightest stars will gather to celebrate the year’s most outstanding cinematic achievements. Secure your spot now for this unforgettable experience, as Festival passes and Film Awards tickets are available as of August 1. Immerse yourself in the world of cinema and discover the next big thing! More info
NEW! “Say KGAY” Apparel
This summer, the best response to “Don’t Say Gay” is “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! 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!
I’m “Living Out” for the next year at the 55+ LGBTQ+ community that you’ve been hearing about on KGAY Palm Springs!
See my first Vlog with CEO Loren Ostrow as we introduce you to Living Out HERE!
KGAY 106.5 & 92.1 FM
Soar above the desert heat and into a mountain wonderland! The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway offers a thrilling ride to the pristine wilderness of Mt. San Jacinto State Park. Enjoy breathtaking views, explore hiking trails, and savor delicious meals at the Mountain Station. Enter to win a 4-pack of tickets and experience this iconic attraction before its annual maintenance closure on September 9. Visit the contest pages for KGAY 106.5 and 103.1 MeTV FM!
KGAY 106.5 and 92.1 and Gay Desert Guide want you to WIN VIP GOLD TICKETS to Gay Days Anaheim, September 13–15 at Disneyland Resort. Join the handsome princes and the evil queens for a three-day weekend of parties and shows featuring Cheyenne Jackson, Raven, Chad Michaels, Varla Jean Merman and more! Find discounted hotels and park tickets along with a full schedule on our Gay Days Anaheim listing on Gay Desert Guide, and Enter to Win on the KGAY Contest Page!
The KGAY 106.5 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 DJ Modgirl airs every Sunday from 4–6 pm (right after the Retro Brunch). DJ Modgirl (AKA Kellee McQuinn) is all about “Music! Dancing! Fashion! Fun!” and she throws down the most irresistible, uplifting beats each week. Listen to KGAY 106.5 online
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
- Living Out Art Walk
Wed. Aug 14 from 5–7 pm at Living Out Palm Springs - Out on the Mountain
Fri. Aug 16 from 6 pm–12 am at Six Flags Magic Mountain - Clear the Shelter Adoption Event
Sat. & Sun Aug 17 & 18 from 10 am–5 pm at the Palm Springs Animal Shelter - The Full Star Wars Saga in Epic Big-Screen Glory
Every Saturday through Sep 7 at 6 pm at Palm Springs Cultural Center - Positively Aging Project – Legacy: Inspiring Stories of Living with HIV
Sat. Sep 21 from 9 am–3 pm at Mizell Center - Rock the City: Bruno Mars Tribute Band
Wed. Sep 28 at 7 pm at Indian Canyons Golf Resort - Modernism Week – October
Oct. 24–27 - Palm Springs Leather Pride 2024: Deeper Than Ever
Thu.–Sun. Oct 24–27 - Palm Springs Pride 5K Run & Walk
Sat. Nov 2 at 8 am in downtown Palm Springs - CVRep 2024–2025 Season on Sale Now
Nov 6–May 4 - Mariah Carey’s Christmas Time
Wed. Nov 13 at 7:30 pm at Acrisure Arena – Tix On Sale Fri. Aug 9 - 36th Annual Palm Springs International Film Festival and Awards
Jan 2–13, 2025
- Greater Palm Springs Pride Announces 2024 Pride Honors Awards Presented by Silvercrest
- City of Palm Springs Announces Limited-Time Local Shopping Gift Card Program
- Disney is Building a Midcentury Fantasyland Near Palm Springs
- The Best Burgers in Greater Palm Springs, According to Locals
- Splash House Festival Essentials & More!
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 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 DJ Modgirl spinning the KGAY Sunday Tea Dance from 4–6 pm.