Gay Desert Guide: Week of Dec 2, 2024

It’s been difficult to watch the news since election day. You may be among the many I talk to who — like the proverbial wreck on the freeway — just can’t look away. Or you may be watching Leave It To Beaver reruns on MeTV instead of Morning Joe.

We’re trying to have a holiday here and enjoy the season! So put your blinders on and focus on the good that’s happening. Tomorrow is “Giving Tuesday” and there are plenty of opportunities to help support the causes you believe in. A few are highlighted below and on our socials.

The City of Palm Springs is also stepping up to make the LGBTQ+ community feel safer and bring some comfort and joy as we face the new regime in 2025. Hats off to Mayor Bernstein, Police Chief Andy Mills and City Manager Scott Stiles for organizing the event on Wednesday. We would like to see other desert cities do something similar to ease the minds of residents. One down, eight cities to go….

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

For the latest, follow our socials @GayDesertGuide and @KGAY1065 and listen to KGAY Palm Springs wherever you may reside! P.S. Our KMEE 103.1 MeTV FM has gone “all holiday music”! Tune in!
#ILoveGayPalmSprings #ILoveGayCatCity #ILoveGayTravel #ILoveGay #SayKGAY #FindYourOasis

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Giving Tuesday: Double Your Donation

Giving Tuesday is a global movement that celebrates generosity and community spirit during the holiday season. It’s a day focused on giving back and making a difference. This year, the Palm Springs AIDS Memorial is seeking support as part of 2024 giving plans. Thanks to the generous support of Community Leadership Donors Mike Richey & Chris Winslow and Mark Pellegrino & Stuart Kent, every donation made from now through Giving Tuesday will be matched dollar-for-dollar, up to $50,000. This means that each gift has the potential to make twice the impact, bringing the community closer to the $1.2 million goal needed to create a lasting and meaningful tribute to those affected by AIDS. Donate Online

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Wreath Auction 2024

The LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert presents their Annual Holiday Wreath Auction on Wednesday, December 4 at 5:30 pm, with the auction beginning at 6 pm. This festive event will benefit The Center and the Palm Springs Animal Shelter, continuing Dick Haskamp’s legacy of generosity and community support. Held at Eight4Nine Restaurant & Lounge, the auction features beautifully crafted wreaths donated by the community. Participate in the auction both online and in-person, and help raise funds for these important causes. More info

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Community Conversation: Moving Forward Together in 2025

The City of Palm Springs is hosting a community meeting, Moving Forward Together in 2025, on Wednesday, December 4 from 4–6 pm at the Palm Springs Convention Center in Room Oasis 3A. This event is a response to community concerns about potential hate crimes and inclusivity following the 2024 election. Residents are encouraged to attend and participate in a dialogue about fostering unity and understanding within the community. More info

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Invisible Valley

The College of the Desert Foundation presents a special screening of Invisible Valley on Wednesday, December 5 at 5:30 pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center. Invisible Valley is a documentary that weaves together the stories of undocumented farmworkers, wealthy snowbirds, and music festival-goers in California’s Coachella Valley, highlighting the social and environmental challenges faced by the community. Meet the production team, see the film, and stay for a Q&A session. Popcorn and drinks provided. Get tickets

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Treaty of Temecula: A Cahuilla Narrative

Join Dr. Sean Milanovich, an Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians Tribal Member, for a fascinating exploration of the Treaty of Temecula on Wednesday, December 4 at 6 pm at the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum. The program will delve into the historical significance of this treaty and its impact on the Cahuilla people. Dr. Milanovich will share insights from his recent dissertation research on Native American treaties in California. Get tickets

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Rock the Park: Hot August Night – A Tribute to Neil Diamond

The Rock the Park free outdoor concert series is back on the first Wednesday of each month, and on Wednesday, December 4 at 7 pm, it’s time for Hot August Night – A Tribute to Neil Diamond at the Downtown Palm Springs Park. This exceptional event promises to capture the essence of Neil Diamond’s legendary music, delivering a performance that will have you singing along to iconic hits like “Sweet Caroline” and “Cracklin’ Rosie.” More info

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This Week at the McCallum Theatre

On Monday, December 2, kick off the holiday season with “Home for the Holidays 2024” at 7 pm, featuring a stellar cast of artists including Peabo Bryson, Oleta Adams, Ruben Studdard, and Haley Reinhart. Following this, enjoy the best of Christmas classics and Motown hits with “Human Nature – Christmas Motown” on Tuesday, December 3 at 7 pm. On Thursday, December 5, it’s An Intimate Evening with Josh Groban, and on Saturday, December 7, the Midtown Men will bring their “Holiday Hits” show to the stage, reuniting stars from the hit Broadway musical Jersey Boys for a night of iconic Yuletide classics and 1960s rock and roll hits. Finally, on Sunday, December 8, celebrate the season with “A Mariachi Christmas,” featuring the Latin GRAMMY-nominated band Mariachi Herencia de México, performing a colorful blend of Mexican and American holiday favorites. Get tickets

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I’ll Eat You Last: A Chat with Sue Mengers

THE BENT brings to the stage John Logan’s electrifying play, I’ll Eat You Last from December 6–22. Immerse yourself in the world of Sue Mengers (portrayed here by Academy Award Nominee Cathy Moriarty), the formidable 1970s super-agent. This one-woman show, famously portrayed by Bette Midler in its Broadway premiere, captures the essence of Mengers with her sharp wit, relentless name-dropping, and savvy showbiz advice. As described by The New York Times, Logan’s portrayal of Mengers is a tour de force, filled with disco-era flair and razor-sharp humor. Get tickets

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Palm Springs Aerial Tramway’s Sounds of the Holidays

Experience the magic of the holiday season at 8,516 feet with the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway’s Sounds of the Holidays. Starting December 4, the Mountain Station will echo with the beautiful melodies of high school choirs performing holiday favorites, continuing a cherished decades-long tradition. Visitors can enjoy these festive performances on select dates through December 15. This year’s lineup includes the Martin Luther King High School Choir on December 4, La Quinta High School Chamber Singers on December 5, and the Palm Springs High School Choir on December 8. Get tickets

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Art + Thriving & Creating

The HIV+ Aging Research Project, in partnership with Stephen Baumbach Gallery, is hosting Art + Thriving & Creating, a special gallery event from December 2–28. This exhibit showcases the talent of artists living with HIV, highlighting their creativity and resilience. The event will include various activities, such as “Meet the Artists” sessions and a closing celebration. This event aims to promote awareness and support for individuals living with HIV while celebrating their artistic contributions. More info

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The Marvelous Marilyn Maye

The Purple Room Supper Club presents The Marvelous Marilyn Maye on Thursday, Friday & Saturday, December 5–7. The toast of New York’s jazz and cabaret scene, Marilyn’s riding high from rave reviews of her sold-out Carnegie Hall performance with the New York Pops! (Dinner at 6, Show at 8 pm). Get tickets

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“Mixed Feelings” at the Palm Springs Art Museum

The Palm Springs Art Museum’s “Mixed Feelings” series explores the intersection of art and science. On Thursday, December 5, “Sibling Worlds & The Art of Laddie John Dill” will present Stephen Kane, a Professor of Planetary Astrophysics at UC Riverside, alongside renowned artist Laddie John Dill. On Saturday, December 7, two events will take place: “Quantum Weirdness & The Art of Phillip K. Smith III” with Shanna Dobson, Assistant Professor of Mathematics at ArtCenter College of Design, and “Wave-Particle Duality & The Art of Jennifer West” with Dwight Whitaker, Biophysicist and Professor of Physics and Astronomy at Pomona College. Each event includes a reception followed by a thought-provoking program. Get tickets

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Palm Springs International Film Festival General Sales Begin

The 36th annual Palm Springs International Film Festival, running from January 2–13, 2025, is set to showcase over 150 films from more than 70 countries, including 68 premieres. Highlights of the festival include a special focus on Spain and screenings of classic works by Pedro Almodóvar. Early ticket access for members is available starting November 26, with general sales beginning December 2. Attendees can pick up the festival program at local distributors like SHAG the Store, Riviera Palm Springs, and Los Arboles Hotel. With tickets selling out quickly, film enthusiasts are encouraged to secure their passes early for an unforgettable celebration of cinema. More info

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Wildlights at The Living Desert

WildLights at The Living Desert Zoo & Gardens is back, open select nights through 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. Enjoy the unique experience of seeing the Zoo at night as you take an enchanting stroll through the African Safari section of the Zoo, where in addition to the lights, you may see some of Africa’s most iconic animals, such as the rhino, giraffe, zebra, and African painted dogs. Get tickets

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Mary Poppins

Palm Canyon Theatre presents Mary Poppins, playing through 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. Mary Poppins teaches all ages that “anything can happen if you let it.” Get tickets

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Magic of Lights

Magic of Lights, a unique and dazzling drive-through holiday lights experience, runs daily through December 29 (Sun–Thurs 5:30–9 pm / Fri–Sat 5:30–10 pm), bigger and brighter than ever with more than a mile of spectacular light displays at the Empire Polo Club. Don’t miss the larger-than-life sparkling Holiday Barbie™ display, the supersized Bigfoot® Monster Truck, and life-sized dinosaurs of Prehistoric Christmas, with favorite holiday scenes and characters of the season depicted with the latest LED technology and digital animations. Get tickets

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ALSO THIS WEEK

Wednesday, December 4
December Art Walk at Kee Gallery | 5–7 pm at Backstreet Art District
Fa La La…Fabulous Holiday Concert by the Palm Springs Gay Men’s Chorus | 7 pm at the Center for Spiritual Living
Jews Do the Blues – A Benefit for Or Hamidbar | 7 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs

Thursday, December 5
McCallum Theatre Annual Gala 2024 | 6–10 pm at the McCallum Theatre
Joie De Vivre Cabaret with Chloe Perrier and Mark Kopitzke | 7 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs

Friday, December 6
Palm Springs Walk of the Stars Honors Dr. Charles Supple | 3–4 pm in Downtown PS
Holiday Banner Awards and Tree Lighting | 4–5:30 pm at Frances Stevens Park
Celebrate the Season: Tree Lighting, Concert, Snowfall | 4–7 pm at The Gardens on El Paseo
Winter Wonderland Public Skate | 6:15–7:45 pm at Berger Foundation Iceplex at Acrisure Arena
Country Dance Fridays: All I Want For Xmas Line Dance with Andrew Jimenez | 7 pm at Step by Step

Saturday, December 7
Desert Film Society Screening: The Successor (France) | 10 am at Palm Springs Cultural Center
First-Ever Tour of the Newly Restored Klein Residence | 2–4:30 pm in Rancho Mirage
SNUG by Terrence Payne Art Show Opening | 5–8 pm at Rubine Red Gallery
Broadway’s Best in the West: Hugh Panaro | 7 pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center
Sarah Brightman: A Christmas Symphony | 8 pm at Fantasy Springs

Sunday, December 8
Svetlana Smolina (pianist) | 2 pm at Richards Center for the Arts
REO Speedwagon | 8 pm at The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa Rancho Mirage

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We Are Best of Coachella Valley Winners!

Readers of the Coachella Valley Independent and viewers of KESQ News Channel 3 voted in the Best of Coachella Valley 2024-2025 poll, and once again we are dancing for joy because we are WINNERS! KGAY 106.5 is honored in the TOP SPOT as BEST RADIO STATION for the 5th year running! KGAY deejays were honored as well, with Modgirl and DJ Galaxy taking the top two spots in their category of Best Local DJ, with DJ Eric Ornelas placing fourth! John Taylor, KGAY morning host, scored first in the Best Local Radio Personality category, and Patrick Evans, afternoon host of our sister station, 103.1 MeTV FM, nabbed the #2 spot; 103.1 MeTV FM was the third most popular radio station in the valley too! See the full list of winners in all categories at cvindependent.com

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THIS WEEKEND

Meet Actress Sarah Karloff: ‘The Making of the Grinch’

Get into the festive spirit and Meet Actress Sarah Karloff: ‘The Making of the Grinch’ on Friday, December 6 from 4–7 pm at the Chuck Jones Gallery Pop-Up in The Gardens at El Paseo. This unique event will feature exclusive Grinch artwork and a special appearance by Sarah Karloff, the daughter of Boris Karloff, the iconic voice of the Grinch. Attendees will enjoy a performance by Sarah Karloff’s 6-foot Grinch, festive refreshments, and chances to win door prizes. Plus, hear insider stories about the beloved holiday classic, Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas. More info

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Festival of Lights Parade

The 2024 Palm Springs Festival of Lights Parade is set to dazzle and delight on Saturday, December 7. This beloved holiday tradition will transform Palm Canyon Drive into a magical wonderland, featuring enormous Macy’s-style balloons, beautifully decorated floats, dance performances, marching bands, and equestrians. The parade kicks off at 5:45 pm, offering a spectacular display of holiday cheer which promises to be a highlight of the holiday season in Palm Springs. The parade includes celebrity grand marshals Matt Sorum of Guns N’ Roses and Dave Karger of Turner Classic Movies, plus Palm Springs royalty Nancy Sinatra as “Special Guest Star.” More info

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Indio International Tamale Festival

Get ready for a delightful culinary adventure at the Indio International Tamale Festival, happening on December 7 & 8 from 10 am–7 pm at Miles Avenue Park. This festive event invites you to explore the famous Tamale Trail, where you’ll find an array of tamales ranging from traditional recipes to inventive new flavors. Enjoy live music, dancing, and family-friendly entertainment with vibrant cultural showcases and energetic musical performances, plus a Luchador Throwdown and FREE ice skating rink. More info

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The Laurel Foundation 36th Annual Toy Drive and Fundraiser

The Leslies are hosting their 36th Annual Toy Drive and Fundraiser at the legendary Dinah Shore Estate in Palm Springs on Saturday, December 7 from 5:30–9:30 pm. The VIP holiday party will feature a gourmet dinner, hosted bar, silent auction, and more. All proceeds will benefit The Laurel Foundation, which provides free mental health and social support programs for transgender and gender-diverse youth and youth affected by HIV/AIDS. Guests are encouraged to bring an unwrapped toy to donate. Get tickets

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Paws & Clause

Bring your furry friend to Paws & Clause at the Rio Del Sol sales office on Saturday, December 7 from 11 am–2 pm for a special holiday photo opportunity with Santa Claus. Capture the perfect Christmas card moment with your beloved pet amidst the festive atmosphere of Rio Del Sol, a private gated community designed for both you and your furry companion. More info

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Nuncrackers: The Nunsense Christmas Musical

Desert Theatreworks’ annual Christmas production is back, and this time it’s the uproarious Nuncrackers: The Nunsense Christmas Musical, running from December 6–29. Join the zany sisters of Nunsense as they spread holiday cheer, yuletide laughs, and a dash of festive mischief. Broadcasting live from the basement of Mount Saint Helen’s Convent, the sisters take to the airwaves for a cable access Christmas special like no other. Get tickets

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Stephen Sondheim’s Company

Revolution Stage Company presents Stephen Sondheim’s Company from December 6–22. Come see the revolutionary musical that redefined Broadway. This sharp, sophisticated show explores the complexities of love, commitment, and friendship through the eyes of Bobby, a charming bachelor navigating modern relationships’ chaotic, often bewildering landscape. The show’s innovative structure weaves together a series of vignettes that are as funny as they are poignant, reflecting the intricate dance of human connection. Sondheim’s masterful music and lyrics capture the essence of urban life and the universal search for meaning and companionship. Get tickets

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Shann Carr’s New Show: “Bitch Please”

Comedian Shann Carr debuts her new show “Bitch Please” full of silly, snarky and sultry storytelling on Saturday, December 7 at 3 pm at Revolution Stage Company. Shann has headlined on over 100 gay cruises and thousands of cool gigs worldwide with a warm and easy crossover appeal for truly diverse audiences. She offers a night of laughs you can count on to leave you feeling good about yourself and your community! Get tickets

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15th Annual Men of the Desert Fashion Show

It’s “Back to the Future,” celebrating 15 years of the Men of the Desert Fashion Show and Luncheon on Sunday, December 8 from 11 am–2 pm at the Palm Springs Air Museum. Enjoy dudes, dogs and designer fashions at one of the Desert’s most popular charity events. All proceeds benefit Animal Samaritans’ Animal Rescue Program, which has saved more than 15,000 adoptable at-risk dogs and cats. Get tickets

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Palm Springs Santa Paws 5K

Get into the holiday spirit with the Palm Springs Santa Paws 5K and Elf Dash, supporting Guide Dogs of the Desert, on Saturday, December 7, from 7:30 am–12 pm. Participants of all ages and their furry friends can run, walk, or stroll the 5K route, with everyone receiving a Santa suit to wear and keep. The event starts at Temple Isaiah and takes you through the scenic Las Palmas neighborhood. It’s a festive morning of fun and cheer for a great cause! More info

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2024 Women’s Golf Scramble Tournament

Join a fabulous day of golf and camaraderie on Sunday, December 8, as the Women of Stonewall Golfers team up with The L-Fund for an exciting 4-woman Scramble at Woodhaven Country Club. This fun-filled event kicks off with an 8 am shotgun start and features a continental breakfast, luncheon with gluten-free and vegan options, and a variety of prizes for net and gross scores, accurate drives, closest to the pin, and putting. Additionally, participants can engage in optional buy-in side games, raffles, and silent auctions, with all proceeds supporting lesbians in the Greater Coachella Valley. More info

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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!

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LOOKING AHEAD

An Evening With David Sedaris Tickets on Sale

Tickets go on sale to the general public at 10 am on Friday, December 6 for An Evening with David Sedaris, taking place on Saturday, May 3 at the Palm Springs Cultural Center. The best-selling author and humorist, known for his books like Calypso, Naked, and Me Talk Pretty One Day, as well as his contributions to This American Life, will be sharing all-new readings and recollections. Following the release of his latest books, Happy Go Lucky and Pretty Ugly, Sedaris will also engage in a Q&A session and book signing. Books will be available for purchase at the event, courtesy of Just Fabulous. Get tickets

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Building Resilience: Coachella

Join The Center and our community for Building Resilience on Monday, December 9, from 5:30–7 pm at the Coachella Library. This free 90-minute session is dedicated to enhancing our community’s strength in facing challenges together. Bringing together LGBTQ+ individuals and allies, the event will explore the concept of resilience at both personal and community levels through community-building circles and hands-on activities. The goal is to empower and inspire everyone to rise above adversity. Spanish translation is available upon request. More info

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DBA Networking Mixer & Holiday Food Drive

Join the DBA Networking Mixer & Holiday Food Drive hosted by Blevins Associates Consulting on Monday, December 9, from 5:30–7 pm at The LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert’s NEW Food Bank, located at 2901 E Alejo Road. Explore the new, much larger location, which allows The Center to expand its food distribution program and serve more community members in need. Participate in the Holiday Food Drive to support The Center’s Food Bank clients this holiday season, donating essential items like 1 lb. bags of pasta, canned pasta sauce, canned soup, 1 lb. bags of rice or beans, and dry dog or cat food. More info

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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!

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• Community Conversation: Moving Forward Together in 2025
  Wed. Dec 4 from 4–6 pm at the Palm Springs Convention Center
• Invisible Valley – A Special Screening
  Wed. Dec 4 at 5:30 pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center
• Treaty of Temecula: A Cahuilla Narrative
  Wed. Dec 4 at 6 pm at The Agua Caliente Cultural Museum
• 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
• Meet Actress Sarah Karloff: ‘The Making of the Grinch’
  Fri. Dec 6 from 4–7 pm at Chuck Jones Gallery at The Gardens on El Paseo
• Paws & Clause Photos with Santa
  Sat. Dec 7 from 11 am–2 pm at Rio Del Sol
• The Laurel Foundation 36th Annual Toy Drive and Fundraiser
  Sat. Dec 7 from 5:30–9:30 pm
• 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
• Magic of Lights Drive-Through Holiday Experience
  Nov 19–Dec 29 at Empire Polo Club
• Mary Poppins, presented by Palm Canyon Theatre
  Nov 29–Dec 22
• The Marvelous Marilyn Maye
  Thu.–Sat., Dec 5, 6, 7 at The Purple Room Supper Club
• Skippy ‘n’ Bitsy’s All-Star Christmas TV Extravaganza
  Dec 10, 11, 17, 18 & 19 at 7pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center
• The 39 Steps, presented by CVRep
  Dec 11–22
• Rat Pack Tribute
  Thu. Dec 12 at 8 pm at The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa Rancho Mirage
• Modern Men: Home for the Holidays
  Sat. Dec 14 at 7 pm & Sun. Dec 15 at 3 pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center
• Low Dez Fest – Beverage Festival
  Sat. Dec 14 from 3–6 pm at Palm Springs Bottle Shop
• Fa La La…Fabulous Holiday Concert by the Palm Springs Gay Men’s Chorus
  Dec 19–22 at 7 pm at the Annenberg Theater
• New Year’s Eve at The Purple Room
  Tue. Dec 31 at 5 pm, 7:30 pm, and 10 pm (three seatings)
• 36th Annual Palm Springs International Film Festival and Awards
  Jan 2–13, 2025
• From Resilience to Action
  Mon. Jan 13, 2025 from 5–6:30 pm, Location TBD
• Justin Timberlake – The Forget Tomorrow World Tour
  Mon. Jan 20, 2025 at 7:30 pm at Acrisure Arena

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