Greetings from Wurzburg, Germany as I write my early week blog. KGAY Morning Host John Taylor and I are guests of the crew of BearCruise.com for a week of Christmas Markets throughout Germany. You can follow us this week with daily broadcasts from the Transcend Cruises riverboat on KGAY.
I wasn’t sure how I’d weather the damp and cold of Winter, having been away from it for so long in sunny Palm Springs. So far, there’s been no snow and the biting winds I remember from my Midwest upbringing are at bay.
With the barrage of breaking news, you may have missed this tidbit: Judy Garland’s Ruby red slippers worn on the set of The Wizard of Oz just garnered $32.5 million at auction. I’m sure some of that had to do with all the hype – well deserved – for the Wicked movie that’s been helping box office numbers in a big way.
I haven’t seen my good friend Michael Holmes donning red slippers as part of his gay apparel in the send up of Garland in The Judy Show! at Purple Room Palm Springs. He’s currently in the holiday performances of Judy’s Old-Fashioned Christmas. Maybe I’ll find a pair of men’s large ruby red slippers at a Christmas market and gift them to Michael so he can wear them on stage when The Judy Show! returns in 2025.
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!
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Building Resilience in Coachella
Join The LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert 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
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
Skippy ‘n’ Bitsy’s All-Star Christmas TV Extravaganza
THE BENT presents Skippy ‘n’ Bitsy’s All-Star Christmas TV Extravaganza from December 10–19 at the Palm Springs Cultural Center. Skippy and Bitsy are taping their 1969 TV Christmas Special in front of a live studio audience, which is you! One of the most popular and happily married showbiz couples of their era (except when Skippy’s roving eye spots another man), this duo pulls out all the stops to entertain you with song, dance, fabulous guest stars and the best banter the TV censors will allow. Starring long time FRUITCAKE FOLLIES alumni Terry Ray and Miss Jane Guy. Get tickets
The 39 Steps
CVRep presents The 39 Steps from December 11–22. Mix a Hitchcock movie masterpiece with a juicy spy novel, add a dash of Monty Python comedic flair and you have this fast-paced whodunit for anyone who loves the magic of theatre! This two-time Tony and Drama Desk Award-winning treat is packed with nonstop laughs, over 150 madcap characters (played by an absurdly talented cast of four), an onstage plane crash, handcuffs, missing fingers, and some good old-fashioned romance. Get tickets
Desert Winds Freedom Band – Christmas Music on the Plaza
On Wednesday, December 11 at 4 pm, the Desert Winds Freedom Band will perform Christmas Music on the Plaza outside Starbucks in Palm Springs. This is a great opportunity to enjoy some festive music and get into the holiday spirit! More info
8th Annual Official Latino Film and Arts Festival
This Monday–Wednesday, December 9–11, the 8th Annual Official Latino Film and Arts Festival will be presented at the Palm Springs Art Museum’s Annenberg Theater. Over 100 films will be screened, the majority presented in English, alongside industry and filmmaker panels. The films will run in a series of themed two-hour blocks which will include short discussions with the filmmakers. Get tickets
This Week at The McCallum Theatre
The McCallum Theatre has a festive lineup this week: On Wednesday, December 11 at 7 pm, ukulele virtuoso Jake Shimabukuro will perform his holiday show, “Holidays in Hawai’i.” This weekend, on Friday & Saturday, December 13 and 14 at 8 pm, the European Pop Orchestra will present “A European Holiday,” featuring a blend of pop and classical music. Finally, on Sunday, December 15 at 3 pm, pianist Jeffrey Siegel will share his “A Few of My Favorite Things,” a program of beloved classical pieces and entertaining commentary. Get tickets
Rat Pack Tribute
Commemorate the era of Frank, Sammy, Dean, and Marilyn with a Rat Pack Tribute at the The Show at Agua Caliente Rancho Mirage on Thursday, December 12, at 8 pm. Travel back in time to the glamorous and dazzling nights of early 1960s Las Vegas when three of the world’s most beloved performers and the enchanting Marilyn Monroe were the talk of the town. Get tickets
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. 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 Wednesday, December 11 – Cathedral City High School Choirs; Thursday, December 12 – Coachella Valley High School Concert Choir; and Sunday, December 15 – Encore High School for the Arts Madrigals. More info
Mixed Feelings: The Golden Rectangle and the Art of Analia Saban
The Palm Springs Art Museum presents the final installment in the current Mixed Feelings series on Thursday, December 12 at 5 pm, exploring the intersection of mathematics and art. “The Golden Rectangle & The Art of Analia Saban” will feature a lecture by College of the Desert Mathematics Professor Leif Jordan and a presentation by contemporary conceptual artist Analia Saban. Get tickets
Dinner & Movie – Nelly Queen: The Life and Times of Jose Sarria
On Thursday, December 12 at 5 pm, PS Air Bar is hosting a special event to celebrate the life and legacy of Jose Sarria. Guests are invited to step into a luxurious “private jet” experience as they watch the film Nelly Queen: The Life & Times of Jose Sarria. This documentary delves into the incredible story of Sarria, a pioneering figure in the LGBTQ+ rights movement. The evening will also feature a delicious meal and classic movie snacks. Get tickets
Dick’s Holiday Toy Drive
Anita Treadmill, a beloved local figure, is hosting a holiday toy drive on Friday, December 13, at Dick’s on Arenas in Palm Springs. The event will start at 5 pm and continue until Anita’s car is full of toys. Attendees are encouraged to bring unwrapped toys for boys and girls of all ages. Cash donations are also welcome. The toy drive will benefit the Palm Springs Police Department, ensuring that underprivileged children in the community receive gifts during the holiday season. More info
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
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 at the Indio Performing Arts Center. 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
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. Get tickets
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 at the Palm Springs Cultural Center. Immerse yourself in the world of Sue Mengers, the formidable 1970s super-agent (portrayed here by Academy Award Nominee Cathy Moriarty). 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
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
ALSO THIS WEEK
Wednesday, December 11
The Chambermasters Golf Tournament | 8:30 am–3 pm at Mission Hills Country Club
Desert Candlelight Concerts: Yve Evans Trio | 6 pm at Mary Pickford Theatre
The Gand Band Blues Brothers Holiday Spectacular | 7 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs
Thursday, December 12
“Wrap it Up” Art Show & Sale Opening Reception | 4–6 pm at Artists Center Palm Desert
Dinner
DAP Health Community Conversation: New Strategic Planning | 6–8 pm via Zoom
A Very Dirty Christmas w/Skyler Gentry, Deven Green & Handsome Ned | 7 pm at Dietlart Gallery
The Duck Soup Trio’s Charlie Brown Christmas | 7 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs
Friday, December 13
PALS 2024 Howliday Pawty | 3–6 pm at Boozehounds
Winter Wonderland Public Skate | 6:15–7:45 pm at Berger Foundation Iceplex
Country Dance Fridays: Beginner Two-Step with Jan Alden | 7 pm at Step by Step
The Nightmare Before Christmas – Free Movie in the Park | 7 pm at Sunrise Park
Saturday, December 14
Gardens to the Rescue Pet Adoption Event | 9 am–2 pm at The Gardens on El Paseo
Stimulating Dialogues – Art Exhibit Grand Opening | 6–9 pm at Artier Fine Art Gallery
Sandra Bernhard – Easy Listening | 7–9 pm at Oscar’s Downtown Palm Springs
Santa Drew’s Naughty & Nice Cabaret | 7 pm at Toucans Tiki Lounge
Living Out Palm Springs Episode 5
Your Gay Desert Guide Brad Fuhr is ’embedded’ at Living Out this year. This week he talks with Jan, a new resident to Living Out who tells us about how welcome she feels as the holidays are upon us. View Episode 5 HERE. – If you’re touring Living Out, be sure to tell them KGAY sent you!
THIS WEEKEND
Modern Men – Home for the Holidays
Modern Men – Coachella Valley Men’s Chorus presents their 2024 Holiday concert, Home for the Holidays, on Saturday, December 14 at 7 pm and Sunday, December 15 at 3 pm. Enjoy a combination of delightful nostalgia of holidays past, and brand new music of our sacred personal experiences. This is an effervescent and joyous holiday concert to be remembered. Get tickets
The Purple Room: Amanda McBroom’s Wintersong
Amanda McBroom, Golden Globe Winning Songwriter of “The Rose,” brings a holiday-themed show to The Purple Room Supper Club on Friday & Saturday, December 13 & 14. McBroom is delicious and naughty and brilliant; come see why her music has made it onto the coveted list of Songs We Love on NPR and join in a celebration of her new recording “Wintersong.” Get tickets
Low Dez Fest
Palm Springs Bottle Shop proudly presents the second annual Low Dez Fest, a groundbreaking beverage festival celebrating diversity and inclusion in the fermented beverage industries. Set for Saturday, December 14 from 3–6 pm at Market Market, the event brings together communities from the worlds of wine, beer, cider, kombucha, sake, seltzers, and non-alcoholic beverages. Partnering with The LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert, a percentage of proceeds will benefit The Center. Highlights include diverse tasting sessions, local food vendors, live music, and entertainment. Get tickets
Christmas with the Crawfords
Desert Theatreworks presents Christmas with the Crawfords from December 13–29 at the Riviera Resort Palm Springs, a wild holiday bash hosted by Joan Crawford (Ethylina Canne) that spirals into Hollywood mayhem! Featuring Vanity Halston as Judy Garland, Sister Burna Cross as Carmen Miranda, and RuPaul’s Drag Race star Kornbread Jete’, this glam-packed show is full of surprise guests and spot-on impersonations. With Paul Crane as Christina Crawford, James Flaherty as Hedda Hopper, and Stan Jenson switching between Mae West and Ethel Merman, this zany holiday spectacle is a Tinseltown toast you won’t want to miss. Get tickets
Sparkle Gala in Honor of Jose Sarria
The Jose Sarria Foundation’s Sparkle Gala takes place on Saturday, December 14 at 6 pm at the El Dorado Clubhouse. This dazzling celebration honors the legendary Jose Sarria and three local icons: Raymond Lafleur, Anita Treadmill, and the LGBTQ History & Archives of the Desert. This glamorous evening will feature a spectacular drag review by Lip Gloss 760, delectable hors d’oeuvres by Oscar’s, and a enticing silent auction. All proceeds benefit the Jose Sarria Foundation. Don your finest attire, “bring the bling,” and prepare to sparkle the night away! Get tickets
This Weekend at The Show
It’s a star-studded weekend at The Show at Agua Caliente in Rancho Mirage! On Friday, December 13 at 8 pm, iconic actress Priscilla Presley will grace the stage, sharing stories and insights from her extraordinary life [Get tickets]. Then, on Saturday, December 14 at 8 pm, legendary funk and soul band Kool & The Gang will electrify the crowd with their timeless hits, promising a night of dancing and good vibes [Get tickets].
A Very Merry-lyn Christmas
Experience the magic of “A Very Merry-lyn Christmas,” a new holiday tradition, this Friday–Sunday, December 13–15. This nightly musical extravaganza, presented by Musical Theatre University, the Palm Springs Unified School District, and the City of Palm Springs, features a special Broadway celebrity guest star and the Musical Theatre University ensemble performing treasured holiday classics. The highlight of the evening is the lighting of “Forever Marilyn,” a dazzling 26-foot tall sculpture of Marilyn Monroe by Seward Johnson, set to sparkle in holiday lights. The festivities begin at 6 pm with the lighting ceremony at approximately 6:45 pm. More info
Friends of the Palm Springs Library Holiday Bazaar
For the third year the Friends of the Palm Springs Library will be hosting a special Holiday Bazaar on Saturday December 14, from 10 am–1 pm inside the lobby area at the main library. There will be an assortment of more than 50 themed and specially curated Gift Baskets for sale in addition to gently used books, DVDs and CDs that make great gifts for that hard to shop for person in your life! One-of-a-kind ornaments and some autographed items will also be offered. More info
Thriving and Creating: Meet the Artists
The HIV+ Aging Research Project presents “Thriving & Creating,” a month-long gallery show celebrating artists living with HIV. The event runs from December 2–28, with special meet-the-artist events on Saturdays. On Saturday, December 14 from 11 am–3 pm, you can meet Miguel Criado, Paul Edmonds, Christopher Comes, and Mark Heger. More info
Wildlights at The Living Desert
WildLights at The Living Desert Zoo & Gardens is open select nights through December 30, inviting 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. If the delighted squeals of kiddos isn’t your jam, there’s an Adults Only (18+) Night: Thursday, December 19. 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 at night. 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!
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!
- 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 - Christmas with the Crawfords, presented by Desert Theatreworks
Dec 13–29 at The Riviera Resort Palm Springs - Low Dez Fest – Beverage Festival
Sat. Dec 14 from 3–6 pm at Palm Springs Bottle Shop - Nuncrackers, presented by Desert Theatreworks
Dec 6–29 at the Indio Performing Arts Center - Stephen Sondheim’s Company, presented by Revolution Stage Company
Dec 6–22 - I’ll Eat You Last: A Chat with Sue Mengers, presented by THE BENT
Dec 6–22 at The Palm Springs Cultural Center - 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 - Fa La La…Fabulous Holiday Concert by the Palm Springs Gay Men’s Chorus
Dec 19–22 at 7 pm at the Annenberg Theater - Christmas Eve Service with Keisha D
Tue. Dec 24 at 6:30 pm at Desert Oasis Chapel - New Year’s Eve at The Purple Room
Tue. Dec 31 at 5 pm, 7:30 pm, and 10 pm (three seatings) - Art in the Park in the Dark New Year’s Eve
Tue. Dec 31 from 5–9 pm at Demuth Park - 36th Annual Palm Springs International Film Festival and Awards
Jan 2–13, 2025 - Aaron Tveit
Sat. Jan 4, 2025 at 8 pm at the McCallum Theatre - 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
KGAY 106.5 & 92.1 FM
KGAY 106.5 and 92.1 & 103.1 MeTV FM both have your chance to WIN TICKETS to the Palm Springs International Film Festival, taking place January 2–13. Imagine mingling with filmmakers and stars, experiencing the thrill of world premieres, and being part of an event that celebrates the magic of cinema. The festival screens films representing over 70 countries, and as one of the first stops on the road to Oscars, nearly all honorees at last year’s festival went on to receive Academy Award nominations and five went on to win Oscars. You can be a winner too: ENTER TO WIN on the KGAY Contest Page and the 103.1 MeTV FM Contest Page!
You can WIN TICKETS to Modern Men Coachella Valley Men’s Chorus, performing their holiday concert, Home for the Holidays, on Saturday & Sunday, December 14 & 15 courtesy of KGAY 106.5 and 92.1! Home for the Holidays is effervescent and joyous, bringing a combination of delightful nostalgia of holidays past, and brand new music of our sacred personal experiences. This is a holiday concert to be remembered. ENTER TO WIN on the KGAY Contest Page
KGAY 106.5 and 92.1 & 103.1 MeTV FM both have your chance to WIN BRUNCH for 2 at Alice B., Palm Springs’ newest weekend brunch destination, now open every Saturday & Sunday from 10 am–2 pm (in addition to dinner from Wednesday–Sunday). Savor all new breakfast and lunch favorites from award-winning chefs Susan Feniger, Mary Sue Milliken and Executive Chef Lance Velasquez! Delight in the scrumptious Croque Madame Flatbread with sweet and savory honey ham and a silky mornay sauce or a Green Shakshuka with perfectly poached eggs and fresno chile for a bit of a kick. ENTER TO WIN on the KGAY Contest Page and the 103.1 MeTV FM 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
Hold on to your sleigh bells, because Santa Claus is rolling in from the North Pole with a sack full of timeless Christmas classics! Your holiday season is about to get a major upgrade with joy and cheer lasting all the way to Christmas Day! ?? So, switch your dial to 103.1 MeTV FM and let the festive music magic fill your heart. Let’s jingle all the way! ?✨ 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
- Palm Springs Leaders Vow to Maintain City as Safe Haven Amid Post-Election Concerns
- My Modern Met’s Art + Culture Guide to Palm Springs
- Healthcare and Municipal Leaders Unite to Launch Blue Zones Initiative to Help Palm Springs Residents Live Better, Longer Lives
- New and Unique Things to Check Out in Greater Palm Springs
- Palm Springs Lights Up with Festive Cheer: Your Ultimate Guide to Holiday Events
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.