Is protesting the answer? As the assault on our LGBTQ+ community and our government continues, I am beginning to look at protests in a different light even with Monday’s National Day of Protest on the calendar.
We feel good about doing something in the wake of the new administration’s dismantling of trans and LGBTQ rights, DEI initiatives and most everything else we hold dear.
Our legislators were caught off guard it seems, but are now taking what little action they can being in the minority. In today’s Los Angeles Times Doyle McMcManus sums it up in his column that Democrats are finally waking up to the crisis.
He quotes Rep. Ro Khanna (D-Fremont), in Silicon Valley, “What we need is more storytelling. … We need real working-class and middle-class folks to explain how these illegal actions are hurting their families — what it means when Trump cuts off funding for children’s cancer research or school lunches or Head Start.” Or in our case, trans rights, women’s rights, funding cutoffs and DEI initiatives.
Those concrete examples of hardship are what could sway public opinion, according to McManus. It’s more than just a protest sign for the six o’clock news. So let’s make the case to Rep. Ken Calvert and others in Washington. We must also reach those who voted for these policies or worse yet didn’t vote at all. The clock is ticking toward the midterms.
Can we save Democracy in the meantime?
Brad Fuhr, your Gay Desert Guide on KGAY 106.5 Palm Springs
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MONDAY: National Day of Protest
On Monday, February 17, the National Day of Protest will take place across all 50 states, coinciding with Presidents’ Day. In Palm Springs, the gathering will be at City Hall at 12 noon, organized locally by Courageous Resistance and Indivisible of the Desert. This nationwide demonstration aims to oppose the policies of the Trump Administration and advocate for government accountability and resistance against fascism. Participants are encouraged to gather, strategize, and engage in various forms of activism. The event underscores the collective power of grassroots movements in standing up for democracy and civil rights. More info
MONDAY: Sazerac Premium Bourbon Tasting
Join the Purple Room on Monday, February 17 from 6–8 pm for the Bourbon Bar Sazerac Premium Bourbon Tasting. Experience a curated bourbon journey with Casey Becker from Sazerac, featuring some of the most sought-after and hardest-to-find whiskies in the world. Enjoy light hors d’oeuvres and sip good bourbon with good company! Get tickets
MONDAY: Palm Springs Modernism Show
The Palm Springs Modernism Show wraps up Monday, February 17 from 10 am–4 pm at the Palm Springs Convention Center. Featuring 135 national and international exhibitors, this event showcases the best in midcentury and modern design, all available for purchase. There will also be a free Classic Car Show on Monday from 12 pm – 3 pm in front of the convention center. Get tickets
ALL WEEK: Modernism Week 2025
Modernism Week is underway, celebrating its 20th anniversary from February 13–23. This 11-day festival features over 500 events, including home tours of historic neighborhoods and the Palm Springs Signature Home Tour. Attendees can also look forward to double-decker bus tours, architectural walking, biking, and bus tours, visits to the Annenberg Estate at Sunnylands, a vintage trailer show, a classic car show, garden tours, and nightly parties. The festival will also include live presentations, historic films, and talks from experts, providing an in-depth exploration of modernist architecture. Many events are free or low-cost, ensuring everyone can experience the beauty and history of mid-century modern architecture. More info
Experience the heart of Modernism Week at CAMP (Community and Meeting Place), located at the Hyatt Palm Springs. This central hub offers a variety of activities, including daily talks, film screenings, and presentations in the Modernism Week Theater. Visitors can also enjoy the Modernism Week store by Destination PSP, all-day food and drinks, book signings, and engaging sponsor displays. Admission is FREE and also free at CAMP, you can pick up a hard copy of the Spring 2025 Edition of our KGAY Desert Guide Visitor Map & Guide!
Tour the Shag House
Experience life at the Shag House during Modernism Week with an immersive tour that will make you feel like you’ve climbed into a life-size Shag painting. Located on Compadre Road in Palm Springs, this unique event offers guided tours with an opportunity to step into the vibrant, retro world of Shag’s art and enjoy an unforgettable experience. Get tickets
MON, THU + WEEKEND Riverside County Fair and National Date Festival
The Riverside County Fair & National Date Festival runs through Sunday, March 2, (closed Mon/Tue/Wed, except Feb 17) at the fairgrounds in Indio. This beloved festival, celebrating the end of the annual date harvest, draws over 250,000 guests each February. Now in its 77th year, the event focuses on community and delicious date-themed treats, with highlights including a dedicated date-tasting booth featuring ‘Date Flights’ and over forty unique date items from various food vendors. Be sure to try the unique offerings like date al pastor tacos, date-topped cinnamon rolls, and the crowd-favorite date beer-battered corn dogs! More info
WEDNESDAY: The Center Women’s Social
Connect and unwind at The LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert’s February Women’s Social on Wednesday, February 19 from 5:30–7 pm at Navigator, the restaurant at the Palm Springs Surf Club. Held every third Wednesday of the month at a different location, this event offers a great opportunity to make meaningful connections, form friendships, and enjoy a fun evening. Come join us and be part of a supportive and engaging community! More info
THURSDAY: Black Business Showcase
Join the Palm Springs Art Museum on Thursday, February 20 from 5:30–8 pm for A Black Business and Community Organization Showcase. Celebrate the impact of Black-owned businesses and their vital contributions to our economy. This Black History Month event will recognize and support Black-owned businesses, organizations, and community groups, offering a unique opportunity to connect with and uplift the vibrant Black community. More info
PERFORMING ARTS
Avenue Q
Revolution Stage Company presents Avenue Q from February 7–21. This Tony Award-winning musical brings its irreverent humor and quirky characters back to the RSC stage, offering a hilarious and touching look at the trials and triumphs of adulthood. Follow Princeton, a bright-eyed college grad, as he navigates life with his colorful neighbors, including Kate Monster, Rod, Nicky, and the unforgettable duo of Trekkie Monster and Lucy the Slut. With catchy songs like “It Sucks to Be Me” and “Everyone’s a Little Bit Racist,” this unique blend of puppetry and live actors explores love, friendship, and finding purpose. Get tickets
The Odd Couple (Female Version)
Desert Theatreworks presents Neil Simon’s The Odd Couple, reimagined to its female version, from February 14–March 2 at Blackbox Theater. Join Olive Madison and Florence Unger and their group of girlfriends for their weekly Trivial Pursuit night in Olive’s cluttered apartment. When freshly dumped Florence arrives, Olive invites her to move in, what could go wrong? Everything! Total opposites, Olive’s laid-back demeanor clashes with Florence’s neurotic cleanliness, putting their friendship to the test. Get tickets
This Week at the McCallum Theatre
This week at the McCallum Theatre, immerse yourself in a captivating lineup of performances. On Monday, February 17 at 7 pm, experience National Geographic Live – Penguins of Antarctica with Dr. Heather Lynch, an expert on Antarctic wildlife. Tuesday, February 18 at 7 pm features the Twyla Tharp Dance Company celebrating its 60th anniversary with extraordinary dance pieces. On Wednesday, February 19 at 7:30 pm, enjoy the London Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Sir Antonio Pappano, including Mahler’s Titan Symphony. Madama Butterfly graces the stage on Thursday, February 20 at 7 pm, bringing an operatic tale of love and betrayal. Finally, the weekend from February 21–23 is dedicated to the Tony and GRAMMY-winning musical Dear Evan Hansen, with multiple showtimes including Friday at 8 pm, Saturday at 2 pm and 8 pm, and Sunday at 2 pm and 7:30 pm. 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 18
Friends of Prescott Preserve Founders Reception | 4–6 pm
Thursday, February 20
The Rammys Outstanding Business Awards 70th Anniversary | 5–8:30 pm at The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage
Wine & Design benefiting Bridges to Hope | 5:30–7:30 at Mathis Home, Indio
Best Friends National Conference | Fri–Sat at the Palm Springs Convention Center
Friday, February 21
McCormick’s Collector Car Auction | Fri–Sun at the Palm Spring Convention Center
Animal Samaritans’ Yappy Hour at Boozehounds | 4–6 pm
Saturday, February 22
The Palm Springs School: A Symposium | 9 am–4:30 pm at the Palm Springs Art Museum
La Quinta Hot Rod & Custom Car Show | 10 am–3 pm at La Quinta Community Park
Moonlight Over the Tropics at Thunderbird Country Club | 5:30–10 pm
A Symphonic Odyssey – Coachella Valley Symphony | 5:30–7 pm at Rancho Mirage Amphitheatres
Country Dance Saturdays: Beginner Waltz with Jan Alden | 7 pm at Step by Step
Murray Hill as Himself | 7:30 & 9:30 pm at Revolution Stage Company
Sunday, February 23
PS Concerts: Idyllwild Arts Academy | 2 pm at Richards Center for the Arts
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
International Bear Convergence
The International Bear Convergence (IBC) is the premier winter Bear Event in Palm Springs, taking place this year from February 20–24 at host Hotel Zoso. This four-day event brings together thousands of bears, cubs, chasers, admirers, and their fans for a weekend of “fun, frolic & fur.” With world-renowned DJs, live performances, and exciting pool parties, IBC offers something for everyone. KGAY’s DJ Galaxy will be playing the Redemption Pool Party on Sunday, February 23 from 10 am–4 pm! More info
Bear Naked at CCBC
Bear Naked, presented by Western Xposure, runs from February 20–23, at the CCBC Resort Hotel. This laid-back event invites the gay bear community and admirers to enjoy four days of relaxation, camaraderie, and fun in the sun. Immerse yourself in pool parties, social gatherings, and laid-back entertainment in a welcoming and clothing-optional environment. It’s the perfect opportunity to meet new people, and reconnect with old friends. Get tickets
Palm Springs International Pride Hockey Tournament
The 2025 Palm Springs International Pride Hockey Tournament takes place Thursday, February 20 to Sunday, February 23. Hosted by Coachella Valley Pride Hockey, this exciting event features games over three days, with social events every day. Enjoy free admission and parking at both Acrisure Arena and Berger Iceplex rinks. Registration and the opening celebration will be at Hunters on Thursday from 6–9 pm. On Friday, hockey games will be at Acrisure Arena from 2:30–11 pm. On Saturday, the Coachella Valley Firebirds play the Calgary Wranglers at 6 pm, followed by a Dog Tag party at the Tool Shed starting at 9 pm. The closing party will take place on Sunday at 7 pm at Blackbook. More info
Lady Bunny: Don’t Bring the Kids
Drag legend and razor-witted comic Lady Bunny comes to the Palm Springs Cultural Center on Friday, February 21 from 7–9 pm. After multiple sold-out residencies in New York, Lady Bunny is taking her raunchy tour de force, Don’t Bring the Kids, on the road. Combining singing, comedy, and dancing, this show is sure to make conservatives squirm. As the New York Times states, it “will have audiences weeping with laughter while groaning in disgust.” Get tickets
Desert Pet Walk
Get ready for a pawsome time at the 2nd Annual Desert Pet Walk, presented by Silvercrest, on Saturday, February 22 from 9 am–12 pm at the Palm Springs Animal Shelter. Join the Shelter and Desert Wildlife Center for a fun-filled neighborhood walk through the beautiful Demuth Park area. Bring your family, friends, and pets to enjoy a perfect way to get active and show your support, with route options designed for pets and people of all abilities. Don’t miss KGAY 106.5 & 92.1 Out and About with John Taylor from 9 am–11 am. Lace up your walking shoes and be part of this fantastic event! More info
John Taylor “Out at About” at Ace Hardware Palm Springs
Join Ace Hardware for “Out and About with John Taylor” on Saturday, February 22 from 12–2 pm. Discover how Ace Hardware is more than just a store – it’s a part of your community. Learn about their commitment to being “the Helpful Place” by offering personalized service, quality products, and a convenient shopping experience. As your local experts, they are dedicated to helping you with all your hardware needs. More info
38th Black History Parade and Town Fair
The Palm Springs Black History Committee and the City of Palm Springs are hosting the 38th Annual Black History Parade & Town Fair on Saturday, February 22. This year’s theme is “African Americans and Labor.” The parade will start at 11 am at Baristo Road and Palm Canyon, and immediately following the Parade, the Town Fair is held at the Downtown Palm Springs Park from 12–6 pm. More info
Modernism Art District Tour
The Modernism Art District Tour is hosted by Modernism Week and The Alliance of Desert Arts (TADA), on Friday, February 21 and Saturday, February 22. This free self-guided tour features over 60 artists across five art districts, offering a unique behind-the-scenes look at their workspaces and how their contemporary art is influenced by the mid-century modern era. Enjoy this exclusive opportunity to engage in discussions and explore artists’ studios at your own pace. Studios will be open Friday from 11 am–4 pm with a reception from 4–7 pm, and Saturday from 11 am–4 pm. More info
McCormick’s Classic Car Auction
Don’t miss McCormick’s Palm Springs Collector Car Auction from Friday, February 21 to Sunday, February 23 at the Palm Springs Convention Center Outdoor Event area. This family-owned and operated classic car auction features over 500 classic and exotic cars, open to the general public and dealers. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere with auctions held twice a year, offering a fantastic opportunity to see and purchase unique vehicles. And Fridays, as always, are FREE admission! Auction hours: Friday: 12–6 pm, Saturday: 10 am–7 pm, and Sunday: 10 am–5 pm. More info
ARRIVAL: The Music of ABBA
Experience the magic of ABBA with ARRIVAL from Sweden – The Music of ABBA on Saturday, February 22 at 8 pm at The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa Rancho Mirage. Founded in 1995 in Gothenburg, Sweden, this renowned show band has toured 70 countries and is celebrated for its authenticity. Enjoy hits like “Dancing Queen” and “Mamma Mia” in a spectacular production that consistently sells out arenas worldwide. Get tickets
Ben Jones: TEMPTATION
This weekend at The Purple Room, don’t miss Ben Jones: TEMPTATION on Friday and Saturday, February 21 & 22. Award-winning vocalist Ben Jones and legendary pianist, composer, and music director Ron Abel will deliver an evening of side-splitting laughs and unbelievable music. Featuring songs by renowned artists like Lesley Bricusse & Anthony Newley, Nat King Cole, Peggy Lee, and Lin-Manuel Miranda, Jones captivates audiences with his touching and hilarious renditions of your favorite songs about infatuation, obsession, and temptation. Dinner at 6 pm, Show at 8 pm. Get tickets
John Stanley King Band at The Gardens on El Paseo
The Gardens on El Paseo 27th Annual Concert Series continues on Saturday, February 22 at 4 pm with John Stanley King Band, benefiting YMCA of the Desert. Reserve your tickets now and wine down on the Center Lawn, Saturday evenings to support your community. Upcoming benefit shows include: Jimmy Buffett Tribute (3/1), and Rod Stewart Tribute (3/8). Get tickets
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!
- Modernism Week – 20th Anniversary
Feb 13–23 - Palm Springs Modernism Show
Feb 14–17 at the Palm Springs Convention Center - Sazerac Premium Bourbon Tasting
Mon. Feb 17 from 6–8 pm at The Purple Room Supper Club - Riverside County Fair & National Date Festival
Feb 13–Mar 2 at Riverside County Fairgrounds, Indio - Neil Simon’s The Odd Couple (Female Version), presented by Desert Theatreworks
Feb 14–Mar 2 at Blackbox Theater - Honky Tonk Angels, presented by Desert Theatreworks
Feb 1–Mar 30 at the Indio Performing Arts Center - Avenue Q, presented by Revolution Stage Company
Feb. 7–21 - The Art Behind the Scarf – Textile Design of Fashion Icon Vera Neumann
Feb 8–Mar 3 at Rubine Red Gallery - Tastes and Sounds of Cathedral City
Feb 11–Apr 8, Tuesdays from 5:30–7:30 pm at Cathedral City Amphitheater - Palm Springs International Pride Hockey Tournament
Feb 20–23 at Acrisure Arena and Berger Foundation Iceplex - 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 - Modernism Week Art District Tour
Fri. & Sat. Feb 21 & 22 from 11 am–4 pm (Reception Fri. 4–7 pm) - McCormick’s Palm Springs Collector Car Auction
Fri–Sun, Feb 21–23 at the Palm Springs Convention Center - Annual Desert Pet Walk
Sat. Feb 22 from 9 am–Noon - La Quinta Art Celebration
Thu.–Sun. Feb. 27–Mar 2 at La Quinta Civic Center - An Evening with John Cameron Mitchell
Fri. Feb 28 from 5:30–9 pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center - Coachella Valley Wildflower Festival
Sat. Mar 1 from 9 am–4 pm at Palm Desert Civic Center Park - Luck Be A Lady Gala – The L-Fund
Sat. Mar 1 at 6 pm at The Riviera Resort & Spa - John Waters: The Naked Truth
Tue. Mar 4 from 4:30–6 pm at Living Out Palm Springs - Mitch Albom at Desert Town Hall Speaker Series
Tue. Mar 4 at 5 pm at Renaissance Esmeralda Resort - Rock the Park: ABBAFAB The #1 ABBA Tribute
Wed. Mar 5 at 7 pm at the Downtown Palm Springs Park - Cathedral City LGBT+ Days
Mar 7–10 at Cathedral City Civic Center Plaza - An Evening of Dance with Nickerson-Rossi
Fri. Mar 7 at 7 pm at the Annenberg Theater - Oliver! presented by Desert Theatricals
Fri.–Sun. Mar 7-9 at Rancho Mirage Amphitheater - Desert X 2025
Mar 8–May 12 at Various Locations Throughout Coachella Valley - “Forbidden Tango” at Metropolitan Fashion Week
Sat. Mar 8 from 6–10 pm at The Palm Springs Art Museum - The Love Bite: An Irreverent New Comedy, by Luke Yankee with Joyce Bulifant
Tue. Mar 11 from 11 am–2 pm at the Annenberg Theater - Fashion Week El Paseo
Mar 14–19 at The Gardens on El Paseo - Red Dress Dress Red Party
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 - Start Your Engines: The Vault’s Automotive Masterpieces
Tue. Mar 25 from 5–7 pm at BIGHORN Palm Desert - The Chase – 31st Annual Steve Chase Humanitarian Awards
Sat. Mar 29 from 5:30–8 pm at the Palm Springs Convention Center - Desert Legends Women’s Weekend
April 4–6 at Hotel Zoso, Indian Canyons, & Demuth Park - Palm Springs Plaza Theatre Inaugural Season
Starts Dec. 2 & 3: An Evening with Lily Tomlin
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
DJ Galaxy will be playing the Redemption Pool Party at IBC on Sunday, February 23 from 10 am–4 pm!
Enter to win tickets to see Grand Concourse, courtesy of KGAY 106.5 and 92.1! Dezart Performs presents this Off-Broadway hit drama by award-winning playwright Heidi Schreck, running from February 28–March 9 [More info]. Set in a Bronx soup kitchen, the play explores themes of faith, hope, and forgiveness through the story of Shelley, a dedicated nun, and Emma, an idealistic but troubled college dropout. Enter to WIN on the KGAY Contest Page
103.1 MeTV FM
103.1 MeTV FM is taking over the Balcony Bar at the Riverside County Fair and National Date Festival now thru March 2. Take a break and sip on a specialty Me cocktail, the “Mellow Yellow“. While you’re there, enter for a chance to win tickets to see James Taylor coming to Acrisure Arena on May 7! 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
- Explore Architectural Wonders: Why Palm Springs Modernism Week 2025 is a Must-Attend for Architects
- Our Procrastinator’s Guide to Modernism Week 2025
- The Plaza Theatre Provides Sneak Peek of Inaugural Season: Historic Palm Springs Venue Unveils Star-Studded Performance Lineup
- Behind Closed Doors: The Bent’s Production of ‘Perfect Arrangement’ Is Deeply Moving and Superbly Acted
- With a New David Hockney Show in Palm Springs, We Visit the Artist’s L.A. Haunts
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.