Gay Desert Guide: Week of Feb 24, 2025

To b(oycott), or not to b(oycott), that is the question:
Whether ’tis nobler in the mind to suffer
The slings and arrows of outrageous fortune,
Or to take arms against a sea of troubles
And by opposing end them.

Yes, I co-opted Shakespeare’s Hamlet to ask whether we should be a part of Friday’s national spending blackout that is taking hold. All this is in response to the elimination of DEI initiatives at the federal level and the trickle-down impact it has has had on major companies like Target and Walmart. The goal is to boycott specific retailers and to refrain from spending any money at all with corporations. Exclusions are made for local businesses.

There are numerous Instagram posts by a group called The People’s Union and its founder, who goes by the Instagram handle “TheOneCalledJai” who started the movement. (The full scope of the effort is outlined on the website by the same handle.)

Last week I talked about protests and limited effect it has on bringing about long term change. This could change the equation. Organizers plan a longer dry spell against Amazon for March 7 – 14. I, for one, have paused by Amazon Prime and plan to cancel it at the renewal date. While I’ll miss the convenience of nearly instant gratification for products, I hope to find local alternatives and support corporations like Costco who have retained their DEI initiatives.

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!
#ILoveGayPalmSprings #ILoveGayCatCity #ILoveGayTravel #ILoveGay #SayKGAY #FindYourOasis

---

TUE/WED: Six Years Old

Desert Theatreworks Artsworks presents Six Years Old by Daphne Silbiger on Tuesday & Wednesday, February 25 & 26 at 7:30 pm. The play follows the spirited six-year-old Adalaide, who navigates her frustrations with her babysitter Kim and her younger brother Dewey. This comic and poignant play, performed by a cast of senior actors, delves into the wild fantasies and serious desires of queer childhood, offering a reflective and touching portrayal of self-discovery. Get tickets

TUE: Tastes & Sounds of Cathedral City

Join the Tastes & Sounds of Cathedral City on Tuesday, February 25, from 5:30–7:30 pm at the Cathedral City Community Amphitheater. Enjoy live music by The Dreamboats while savoring delicious offerings from El Reaper. This weekly event, running through April 8, features local artists and food vendors, providing a wonderful opportunity for the community to come together in a beautiful outdoor setting. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and relish the culinary experiences and live entertainment—this event is free and open to all! More info

---

WED: The Center Social

Join The LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert for The Center Social on Wednesday, February 26 from 5:30–7 pm at The Thompson hotel. This monthly mixer, held on the 4th Wednesday, offers an exciting opportunity to connect with the community, enjoy happy hour, and have some fun. Whether you’re looking to network, make new friends, or simply unwind, The Center Social is the perfect place to be. More info

---

WED: Harmony in Blue

“Harmony in Blue” is on Wednesday, February 26, from 7–8:30 pm, a stirring tribute to the legendary voices of Dinah Washington, Aretha Franklin, and Nancy Wilson. Presented by Sweet Baby J’ai, this special event marks the beginning of the 2025 Sunset Music Series and highlights the SMARTS Initiative, which supports community enrichment by gifting musical instruments to children. Featuring powerhouse vocalists Sweet Baby J’ai, Leah Stewart, and Sacha Boutros, backed by an exceptional band, “Harmony in Blue” celebrates the cultural impact and timeless music of these iconic women. Get tickets

---

THU: Black History Month Closing Celebration

The Black History Month Closing Celebration at the Palm Springs Art Museum takes place on Thursday, February 27 from 5:30–8 pm. This vibrant Block Party features music, games, food, performances, and BIPOC vendors, offering a joyous opportunity to celebrate Black culture and connect with the community. Come together to honor the lasting contributions of Black people to our history and society while enjoying an evening of entertainment and cultural enrichment. More info

---

THU-SUN: Riverside County Fair and National Date Festival

The Riverside County Fair & National Date Festival runs through Sunday, March 2, (closed Mon/Tue/Wed) 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

---

FRI: Spending Blackout

On Friday, February 28, the Economic Blackout event calls for individuals to “turn it off” for one day to demonstrate who truly holds the power in the economy. Participants are encouraged not to make any purchases—online or in-store—from major retailers like Amazon, Walmart, Best Buy, McDonald’s, or similar corporations. Instead, refrain from spending money on non-essential items such as fast food or gas. If you must buy essentials like food, medicine, or emergency supplies, aim to support small local businesses. Share the movement by talking about it and posting online to amplify the message. This collective action aims to disrupt the economy for just one day, sending a powerful statement. Learn more

---

FRI: An Evening with John Cameron Mitchell

New York’s Finest presents An Evening with John Cameron Mitchell on Friday, February 28 from 5:30 pm–9 pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center. The Tony Award-winning star of stage and screen, known for his iconic work in Hedwig and the Angry Inch will be available for an artist meet and greet at 5:30 pm, followed by the show at 7 pm. Enjoy a hair-raising, hilarious romp of songs, stories, and characters, with performances by Mitchell and international cabaret star Amber Martin. The house band, led by Grammy Award-nominated music director Justin Craig, promises a magical, one-of-a-kind night with special guest surprises. Get tickets

---

This Week at the McCallum

This week at the McCallum Theatre offers an exciting lineup of performances, starting with the tenThing Brass Ensemble on Monday at 7 pm. Formed by Norwegian trumpeter Tine Thing Helseth, this all-female group brings a diverse repertoire to the stage. On Tuesday at 7 pm, Rhythm India: Bollywood & Beyond transports audiences through the vibrant world of Bollywood with dynamic music and dance. Wednesday and Thursday feature The Simon & Garfunkel Story, a critically acclaimed concert-style show performed at 7 pm on Wednesday and at 2 pm and 7 pm on Thursday. Friday at 8 pm, The Tenors deliver powerful harmonies and a blend of classical, pop, and rock music. Saturday at 8 pm, Michael Feinstein celebrates the legacy of Tony Bennett with the Carnegie Hall Big Band. The week concludes on Sunday at 7 pm with Lyle Lovett, showcasing his unique blend of country, swing, jazz, and more. Get tickets

---

THEATRE

Grand Concourse

Join Dezart Performs at the Pearl McManus Theater from February 28–March 9 for the profound and gripping play Grand Concourse, directed by Michael Shaw. This thought-provoking drama centers around Shelley, a dedicated nun running a Bronx soup kitchen with unsentimental efficiency. As Shelley grapples with feelings of futility, her world is upended by Emma, an idealistic yet troubled college dropout who volunteers at the kitchen. Emma’s reckless mix of generosity and self-involvement pushes Shelley to her breaking point, resulting in a poignant exploration of faith, purpose, and human connection. Get tickets

---

The Love Bite

Experience a delightful blend of satire and comedy with “The Love Bite: An Irreverent New Comedy by Luke Yankee on Sunday, March 2, from 11 am–2 pm at the Annenberg Theater. This enhanced stage reading begins with an awkward romantic encounter in a small Irish town, leading to a miraculous event when a resulting hickey bears a striking resemblance to Jesus Christ and has genuine healing powers. Adding to the excitement, the legendary Joyce Bulifant—best known for her role as Marie Slaughter on The Mary Tyler Moore Show and appearances in Airplane!, The Happiest Millionaire, and numerous TV shows—will grace the stage for this special performance. 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

---

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

---

My Fair Lady

Palm Canyon Theatre presents My Fair Lady through March 7. Based on George Bernard Shaw’s play Pygmalion, My Fair Lady is that rare musical by which all others are measured, featuring one of musical theatre’s greatest scores. This classic tale shows us Eliza Doolittle, a low-class, Cockney, flower girl, transformed into an elegant lady when Professor Henry Higgins decides to teach her how to speak like a proper, upper-class woman. During their lessons, an unlikely friendship begins to flourish. Get tickets

---

---

ALSO THIS WEEK

Tuesday, February 25
The Simon Duo: Lunchtime Music Downtown | 11:30 am–12:30 pm at Welwood Murray Memorial Library

Wednesday, February 26
Palm Springs Poetry Club | 4–5 pm at Welwood Murray Memorial Library
Eisenhower Health Lecture: Bariatric Surgery | 5:30–7 pm on Zoom
The Patty Cakes Show | 7 pm at The Center for Spiritual Living, Palm Springs

Friday, February 28
Palm Springs Walk of Stars: Susie Coelho | 3:30 pm at 145 S. Palm Canyon Dr.
Perez Art District 4th Fridays ARTWALK | 4 pm at Perez Road, Cathedral City
Bear Union | 8 pm at Club 541

Saturday, March 1
Country Dance Saturdays: Do Si Do Line Dance Lesson with Kyle Young | 7 pm at Step by Step
Murray Hill as Himself | 7:30 pm at Revolution Stage Company
Styx | 8 pm at The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa Rancho Mirage

Sunday, March 2
First-Ever “Jazz Girls Day” in Idyllwild | Idyllwild Arts Campus
Palm Springs Vintage Market | 7 am– 2 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs
“Hollywood’s Biggest Night” Party | 3:30 pm at Trio

---

DUI Checkpoint Friday

The Palm Springs Police Department will hold a DUI/Drivers License Checkpoint on Friday, February 28 from 7 pm–2 am at an undisclosed location in Palm Springs. The Police Department reminds the public that impaired driving is not just from alcohol. While medicinal and recreational marijuana are legal, driving under the influence of marijuana is illegal. Drivers charged with a first-time DUI face an average of $13,500 in fines and penalties, as well as a suspended license.

---

THIS WEEKEND

La Quinta Art Celebration

The La Quinta Art Celebration returns with a four-day event from Thursday–Sunday, February 27–March 2 at the La Quinta Civic Center. This award-winning fine art and crafts festival will feature 220 jury-selected premier artists from across the country and abroad, showcasing their work in various media categories, including painting, sculpture, glass, ceramics, jewelry, photography, fiber, wood, and mixed media. Attendees can enjoy live music daily, as well as exquisite food and beverages, all set against the stunning backdrop of La Quinta. More info

---

Desert Brewfest

Hey beer lovers! Join us at Luchador Brewing Company for the 2nd Annual Desert Brewfest on Saturday, March 1 from 12–4 pm. Enjoy unlimited tastings from multiple Southern California craft breweries and tasty tacos from Luchador. A portion of every ticket sold supports the Cathedral City & Palm Springs Fire Fighter Foundation. Save $10 on advance tickets with promo code “KGAY”. The event also features Lucha Libre matches, a dunk tank for firefighters, lawn games, axe throwing, and KGAY’s DJ Galaxy spinning the tunes. Get tickets

---

Luck Be A Lady Gala

The L-Fund Luck Be a Lady Gala is on Saturday, March 1 from 5–10 pm at The Riviera. This glamorous event supports the L-Fund’s mission to provide emergency financial assistance to cis, trans, and queer-identifying lesbians in crisis across the Coachella Valley. The evening promises an unforgettable experience with entertainment hosted by comedian Shann Carr, known for her 40-year career and community-building events. Enjoy performances by Marisa Corvo, a multi-talented vocalist and former contestant on American Idol and The Voice, and DJ of the KGAY Sunday T-Dance, MODGIRL, celebrated for her euphoric presence and high-energy DJ sets. Get tickets

---

Coachella Valley Wildflower Festival

Celebrate the beauty of nature at the Coachella Valley Wildflower Festival on Saturday, March 1 from 9 am–4 pm at the Palm Desert Civic Center Park. This free, family-friendly event, sponsored by Friends of the Desert Mountains, features enchanting wildflower displays, local artisans, information booths, kids’ activities, and a “Naturally Inspired” youth art contest. Enjoy live music, delicious food from local food trucks, and a beer and wine garden for adults. The festival promotes education, environmental stewardship, and an appreciation of the desert’s unique flora. More info

---

Karen Mason – Just in Styne: Karen Sings Jule

Celebrate an unforgettable evening with Karen Mason at the Purple Room on Friday, February 28 and Saturday, March 1 as she performs her acclaimed show “Just in Styne: Karen Sings Jule”, honoring her favorite songwriter, Jule Styne. Enjoy Broadway classics like “Just in Time” and “Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend,” along with pop standards such as “It’s Magic” and “Every Street’s a Boulevard in Old New York.” Karen will be accompanied by Christopher Denny on piano for this special tribute. Dinner at 6 pm, Show at 8 pm. Get tickets

---

Flagging in the Desert

Join the Flagging in the Desert event on Saturday, March 1, from 10:30 am–3:30 pm at Ruth Hardy Park in Palm Springs. Enjoy an exciting soundtrack by DJ Daniel Van Oldst while dancing, flagging, or simply watching the fun. The event kicks off with an instructional class at 10:30 am, followed by DJ music at 11:30 am. Although free to attend, donations are encouraged to support the Palm Springs AIDS Memorial, with matching grants tripling contributions. The day includes a silent auction of donated flags. More info

---

Mini Gay Day

Get ready for a day of fun and celebration at Mini Gay Day at Disneyland Resort on Saturday, March 1. This unofficial event is a springtime gathering for the LGBTQ+ community and allies, offering a chance to enjoy the magic of Disneyland while showing off your pride. Attendees are encouraged to wear red shirts to show their support and connect with fellow participants. While Disney does not officially sponsor the event, the park is supportive and often features special photo opportunities, merchandise, and themed food items. Additionally, discounted park tickets and hotel rooms are available for participants. More info

---

Jimmy Buffett Tribute at The Gardens on El Paseo

The Gardens on El Paseo 27th Annual Concert Series continues on Saturday, March 1 at 4 pm with Jimmy’s Buffet (Jimmy Buffet Tribute), benefiting Children’s Discovery Museum. Reserve your tickets now and wine down on the Center Lawn, Saturday evenings to support your community. Upcoming: Rod Stewart Tribute (3/8). Get tickets

---

LOOKING AHEAD

John Waters: The Naked Truth

Living Out welcomes legendary filmmaker, author, and cultural icon John Waters—affectionately known as the Pope of Trash—to Palm Springs for a special performance of The Naked Truth on Tuesday, March 4, from 4:30–6:30 pm. Known for his irreverent humor and boundary-pushing films like Pink Flamingos, Hairspray, and Serial Mom, Waters will deliver an unfiltered and entertaining lawn performance, sharing his sharp-witted takes on art, film, politics, and pop culture. Following the show, attendees can dine at the on-site restaurant, Alice B., operated by celebrity chefs Susan Feniger and Mary Sue Milliken, or visit the bar for seasonal bites, classic cocktails, or a glass of wine. Get tickets

---

Desert Smash 2025

The 2nd Annual Desert Smash Celebrity Pickleball Challenge is Monday, March 3, from 1–5 pm at the La Quinta Resort & Club Tennis Stadium. Hosted by Katy Perry, this fun-filled afternoon features DJ sets, a “Desert Smash Village” of brands and sponsors, fun-hosted bars, and a live recording of the “Good Trouble” podcast by Nick Kyrgios with a celebrity guest. Watch celebrities like Naomi Osaka, Jason Derulo, and Sam Asghari, along with pro pickleball players, compete for a great cause. Proceeds benefit the WTA Foundation’s Global Women’s Health Fund in support of UNICEF. Tuesday, March 4 is the Celebrity Tennis Charity Event, hosted by P!NK. Celebrities and professional tennis players confirmed to participate include: Lance Bass, LeAnn Rimes, Pete Wentz, Alexander Zverev, Aryna Sabalenka, Boris Kodjoe, Eddie Cibrain, Elisha Cuthbert, Felix Auger Aliassime and more! For 20 years, Desert Smash has served as the unofficial kickoff to the BNP Paribas Open, raising millions of dollars for charitable causes. Get tickets

---

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!

---

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!

---

• Tastes and Sounds of Cathedral City
  Tuesdays from 5:30–7:30 pm through April 8 at Cathedral City Amphitheater
• Riverside County Fair & National Date Festival
  Feb 13–Mar 2 at Riverside County Fairgrounds, Indio
• 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
• Desert Brewfest
  Sat. Mar 1 from 12–4 pm at Luchador Brewing Company
• Luck Be A Lady Gala – The L-Fund
  Sat. Mar 1 at 6 pm at The Riviera Resort & Spa
• Karen Mason – Just in Styne: Karen Sings Jule
  Fri. & Sat., Feb 28 & Mar 1 at The Purple Room Supper Club
• The Love Bite: An Irreverent New Comedy, by Luke Yankee with Joyce Bulifant
  Sun. Mar 2 from 11 am–2 pm at the Annenberg Theater
• Grand Concourse, presented by Dezart Performs
  Feb 28– Mar 9 at the Pearl McManus Theater
• 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
• The Art Behind the Scarf – Textile Design of Fashion Icon Vera Neumann
  Feb 8–Mar 3 at Rubine Red Gallery
• 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
• Jesus Christ Superstar, presented by CVRep
  Mar 5–16
• 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
• Tootsie, presented by Desert Theatreworks
  Mar 7–30 at the Indio Performing Arts Center
• 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
• Velocity Irish Dance
  Thu. Mar 13 at 7 pm at the McCallum Theatre
• 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
• Coachella Valley Home Show
  Fri.–Sun. Mar 28–30 at the Riverside County Fairgrounds
• 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