Coming Out Day started in 1988, when I was not yet out of the closet myself at age 30. I didn’t know about such a day until many years later.
I marvel at how youth today have fluidity in their sexuality, allowing experimentation and expression that leads them to be who they are meant to be.
I have two transgender nieces – brothers at birth – and saw one of them at a family reunion last week back in Michigan. We all have our coming out stories and strifes that shaped our lives. As gay, lesbian or bisexual, arguably our journey is a bit easier than those in the trans community.
That was apparent when I watched an episode of Fearless: How 10 LGBT Activists Made It Better featuring criminal defense attorney Mia Yamamoto. She reflects on how coming out as transgender impacted her life and career, why being transgender is more “in your face” than being gay.
My friend Ross W. von Metzke from It Gets Better is hosting a pre-Pride Happy Hour in support of the organization’s work to uplift, empower and connect LGBTQ+ youth around the globe – reaching them BEFORE they’re in crisis on October 17th. I wanted to mention it today as we prepare to celebrate National Coming Out Day on Friday.
As we make our way toward Palm Springs Pride, let’s find ways to celebrate, uplift and support all the good that’s happening locally for LGBTQ+ youth, adults and seniors. We’re truly blessed to live in #ILoveGayPalmSprings!
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
Healing Rainbows Open House
On Thursday, October 10 from 4–6 pm, the Transgender Health & Wellness Center (TH&WC) invites you to tour their new LGBTQ+ Domestic Violence/Sexual Assault social services and rehousing facility, Healing Rainbows. Located at 3001 E. Tahquitz Canyon, Suite 103/104, Palm Springs, this facility marks a significant milestone for the organization, which has grown from a small facility in 2018 to become the largest Trans Led Organization in the world. Join in a group photo at 5 pm and show your support for this vital community resource. More info
Randy Rainbow Live on Tour
Get ready for a night of laughter and musical satire as Randy Rainbow brings his “Randy Rainbow for President Tour” to the McCallum Theatre on Friday and Saturday, October 11 & 12 at 7:30 pm. Known for his hilarious political parodies and viral video song spoofs, Randy Rainbow is a four-time Emmy and Grammy-nominated comedian, singer, and New York Times best-selling author. His live show promises to be a delightful mix of his most popular video parodies, original songs, and interactive audience moments, all accompanied by live Broadway musicians. Get tickets
Celebrate the grand opening of The McCallum Theatre’s 2024–25 season with KGAY’s John Taylor broadcasting Out & About before the Randy Rainbow show on Friday, October 11! Ticketholders to Randy Rainbow’s opening night show are invited to chill on the outside patio and enjoy drinks and cocktails at the bar with tunes by DJ Galaxy from 5:30–7:30 pm. Come celebrate with KGAY and spin the KGAY Prize Wheel to win amazing prizes! Get tickets
Out on the Walk
The LGBTQ+ History & Archives of the Desert presents Out on the Walk: Celebrating LGBT Honorees on the Palm Springs Walk of the Stars on Tuesday, October 8 from 5:30–7 pm on Zoom. Part of Circa: Queer Histories Festival 2024, the event will feature a virtual stroll down the Walk of Stars, a presentation on the honorees, and will explore the history of the Walk of Stars and the recent efforts to identify LGBT honorees. More info
An Evening in Support of Lisa Middleton
Join in An Evening in Support of Lisa Middleton on Monday, October 7 from 4–6 pm at Living Out Palm Springs. Hosted by Loren Ostrow and Living Out Palm Springs – Elegant Communities for Active LGBTQ Adults, this is an opportunity to show your appreciation and support for Lisa Middleton in her run for State Senate! More info
“Pieced Together” Opening Reception
Mark Pellegrino presents “Pieced Together” at Artworks Gallery, with an Opening Reception on Wednesday, October 9 from 4–7 pm. The show features the collage work of Dianne Ferree, Samuel Flemming Lewis, and Marco Franchina. Pop-up hours will also be held Thursday–Sunday, October 10–13. More info
NVISION Latino Film & Music Festival
Palm Springs Art Museum celebrates its partnership with The Official Latino Film Festival with its relaunch as the NVISION Latino Film & Music Festival celebrating its 10th anniversary, Thursday–Saturday, October 10–12. Enjoy film screenings, engaging panels, and special presentations at the Annenberg Theater and Regal Cinemas, plus cocktail receptions in the beautiful Meyerman Garden, nightlife programming at Reforma. Get tickets
National Coming Out Day is Friday
National Coming Out Day, observed annually on October 11, celebrates the courage and significance of coming out as LGBTQ+. Established in 1988 by activists Robert Eichberg and Jean O’Leary, the date commemorates the anniversary of the 1987 March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights. This day encourages individuals to live openly and authentically, fostering greater visibility and acceptance within society. It’s a powerful reminder of the ongoing fight for equality and the importance of embracing one’s true self! More info
Firebirds 2024-25 Season Home Opener
The Coachella Valley Firebirds kick off their 2024-25 season at Acrisure Arena on Friday, October 11 against the Bakersfield Condors, starting at 7 pm. Becoming a Firebirds Season Ticket Member is the best way to guarantee your seat! Get tickets
ALSO THIS WEEK
Monday, October 7
Cabaret Riot competition series | 7–9 pm at Revolution Stage Company
Tuesday, October 8
Rancho Mirage Candidates Forum | 5:30 pm at RM Library & Observatory
Wednesday, October 9
The Voice of the Divine: Demystifying the Tarot | 5:30 at Mizell Center
The Dirty Show 3.0 – Triple the Penetration with Skyler Gentry | 7 pm at Dietlart Gallery
Thursday, October 10
Rancho Mirage State of the City | 11 am– 1 pm at Omni Rancho Las Palmas
Healing Rainbows Open House | 4–6 pm
Joshua Tree Music Festival | October 10–13 at Joshua Tree Lake Campground
Free Thursdays at the Palm Springs Art Museum | 5–8 pm
Eric Clapton w/Special Guest Jimmie Vaughan | 7:30 pm at Acrisure Arena
Friday, October 11
Just Food for Dogs Pantry Grand Opening | 10 am–6 pm Friday & Saturday
Country Dance Fridays: Beginner Two-Step with Rob Ollander-Krane | 7 pm at Step by Step
Saturday, October 12
Cathedral City Pancake Breakfast and Fire Prevention Open House | 8–11 am at Fire Station #2
Who’s Afraid of Red, White and Blue? | 4–7 pm at The Lofts Art District
Jay Leno | 8 pm at The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa Rancho Mirage
Sunday, October 13
Evening Under the Stars benefiting AAP – Food Samaritans | 5:30–8:30 pm
THIS WEEKEND
Casual Concours 2024: Freeway of Love
The Casual Concours Car Show is this Saturday, October 12 from 9 am–2 pm at the iconic Indian Canyons Golf Resort. This year’s theme, “Freeway of Love,” celebrates California car culture, showcasing a stunning array of vehicles from the 1920s to the early 2000s. Attendees can look forward to a full weekend of activities, including a Friday night Kick-Off Party, a Saturday night Awards Banquet, and a Sunday morning brunch. Modgirl of KGAY’s Sunday T-Dance will be spinning at the show on Saturday! This is a fantastic opportunity for car enthusiasts to enjoy a diverse collection of classic and vintage cars in a beautiful setting! More info
East Coachella Valley Pride
The 8th Annual East Coachella Valley LGBTQ+ Pride Festival is set to take place on Saturday, October 12, from 6–10 pm at the Coachella Public Library Park. This vibrant, family-friendly event will feature live performances by notable artists such as Alexander Greyjoy, Mxxa, Fabyeonce, and Giselle Woo & The Nightowls, with an opening ceremony by Danza Azteca Citlaltonac. Attendees can also enjoy a community resource fair and browse through various local vendors. More info
Just Food for Dogs Pantry Grand Opening
Join Just Food for Dogs Pantry for a Grand Opening in their new Rancho Mirage location on Friday & Saturday, October 11 & 12 from 10 am–2 pm. There will be free doggie treats for all furry friends and human treats for the pet parents, and the first 15 customers will get a gift card! In addition there will be a photo booth to commemorate the moment and a raffle giveaway worth over $600. The Open House will be hosts to California Paws Rescue, Rescued tails Hydrotherapy, Taylors dog grooming (giving free nail trimming this day!) and The cruzn vet tech. Just Food For Dogs is the first #1 vet recommended maker of fresh, human-grade, whole ingredient, research-backed dog food. More info
Tailwaggers Howl-O-Ween Event
Join Tailwaggers Pet Food and Supplies in Palm Springs for a spooky and heartwarming event on Saturday, October 12 from 11 am–4 pm. Tailwaggers is the place where furry friends get five-star treatment. This free eqvent features a costume contest, pet nutrition advice, and adoptable dogs from Balooja’s Foundation. It’s a perfect opportunity for pet lovers to have fun, learn, and potentially find a new friend! More info
David Dean Bottrell: “The Death of Me Yet”
Revolution Stage Company presents David Dean Bottrell in “The Death of Me Yet” on Sunday, October 13 from 2–4 pm. You don’t want to miss this uplifting little show about biting the dust — featuring tales of potluck funerals, chatty EMS personnel, plus a dazzling array of new burial options. Award-winning, comic storyteller Bottrell interlaces five hilarious & heartfelt tales about his close encounters (and close calls) with the big D! Get tickets
An Evening of Liberace
On Sunday, October 13, Amy’s Purpose nonprofit organization will host its annual fundraiser at Casa de Monte Vista in Palm Springs, the filming location for Behind the Candelabra. The event, An Evening of Liberace, will honor Liberace’s legacy with performances by Jere Ring, David Maiocco, cabaret artist Francesca Amari, and pianist Ron Pass. Guests can also enjoy psychics and fashion models throughout the estate. The evening starts with dinner at Eight4Nine restaurant at 5 pm followed by shuttles to the party and concert. Get tickets
This Weekend at The Purple Room
This weekend at the Purple Room Supper Club: On Friday, October 11, enjoy the smooth sounds of Jazz with Nicolas King, a talented performer known for his captivating interpretation of songs from the Great American Songbook, making his Purple Room debut! Then on Saturday, October 12, travel back in time with Richard Shelton‘s tribute to Frank Sinatra, one of the most iconic voices in music history. On Sunday, The Judy Show! will celebrate the iconic Judy Garland, known for her powerful voice and unforgettable performances, starring Purple Room proprietor Michael Holmes. Get tickets
Shunned
Palm Canyon Theatre presents Shunned on Saturday & Sunday, October 12 & 13. All the characters in Shunned are, in some way, shunned themselves, emphasizing the overriding theme of the universal feeling of isolation. The play presents a realistic portrait of Amish life and philosophy, and problems facing the community in today’s world. Get tickets
Dial “M” for Murder
Desert Theatreworks presents Dial “M” for Murder, running October 4–20 at Blackbox Theater. In this suspenseful thriller, Tony Wendice plots to murder his wife Margot for her money, only for his plan to unravel when the hired killer fails and Margot survives. As Tony’s web of deceit tightens, the truth gradually emerges, leading to a dramatic confrontation. Get tickets
Sundew
Palm Canyon Theatre presents Larry Parr’s Sundew on Friday & Saturday, October 11, & 12. A powerful, touching story of an eccentric old woman, desperately clinging to wooded property she believes is the real, Biblical Eden, Sundew is about the spiritual ramifications of ecology, and it is also about personal sacrifice for the protection of the gift of earth. Get tickets
F**king Men
The Bent presents F**king Men from October 11–17 at the Palm Springs Cultural Center. This fascinating, funny and provocative story of sex, love and connection follows ten men through a series of erotic encounters that change their lives in small but significant ways. A smash hit in London, F**cking Men takes a sharp and insightful look at the experiences of modern gay men as they navigate their conflicting desires for the comfort of monogamous love and the thrill of sexual freedom. Get tickets
Weezer – Voyage to the Blue Planet Tour
Weezer is set to rock Acrisure Arena on Saturday, October 12 at 7 pm, as part of their “Voyage to the Blue Planet” tour. This concert marks the final date of their North American tour celebrating the 30th anniversary of their iconic self-titled debut, also known as the “Blue Album.” Fans can look forward to hearing the entire Blue Album performed live, along with other fan favorites and rarities. Joining Weezer on this special night will be The Flaming Lips and Dinosaur Jr. Get tickets
Rubine Red Gallery Presents Marcus Rothering: 2024 Pride Show
Rubine Red Gallery proudly presents Marcus Rothering as the featured artist for their 2024 Pride Show, Wildthots, from October 11–November 4. The opening reception is on Saturday, October 12, from 5–8 pm. Marcus’s work explores emotions and desires through hand-building techniques in clay, leaving marks that record his interactions with the material. Recently, he has also incorporated fiber art, using a tufting gun to create wall textiles that complement his ceramic pieces. More info
Western Xposure Fall Bear Weekend #1
Western Xposure Fall Bear Weekend will take place from October 10–13 at CCBC Resort. This four-day event is a celebration for the bear community, featuring pool parties, DJ sets, BBQs, Halloween costume parties, and more. The event is clothing-optional and body-positive, offering a welcoming atmosphere for all attendees. Highlights include performances by DJs Carrera, Bulldog, Evil JP, E. Feld, and BodyRolls, as well as various play areas, hot tubs, and a steam room. Get tickets
Best of Coachella Valley Voting Underway
The Coachella Valley Independent‘s annual Best of Coachella Valley reader’s poll is now open for voting! We would love a repeat of our wins last year! The top three to six vote-getters in each category have moved on to this Final Round of voting, which will run online at CVIndependent.com through Sunday, October 20. Cast your vote for Best Local DJ under the “Arts” section, which includes finalists KGAY 106.5 Retro Lunch Djs: DJ Eric Ornelas and DJ Galaxy, and Modgirl of the KGAY Sunday Tea Dance! Then, under the “Life in the Valley” section, for Best Local Radio Personality please consider John Taylor of the KGAY 106.5 Morning Show, and Patrick Evans of 103.1 MeTV FM. Finally, also under “Life in the Valley,” for Best Radio Station, please consider KGAY 106.5 and 103.1 MeTV FM! Vote Today
The Fall Pride Visitor Map & Guide is Here!
Check out the new edition of 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 iat businesses and newsstands around town next week.
LOOKING AHEAD
Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration
The Idyllwild Arts Community will host its fourth annual Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration on Monday, October 14. This free, family-friendly event honors Indigenous contributions through arts and culture, featuring a “Living Land Acknowledgement.” The celebration will be headlined by The Delbert Anderson Quartet, led by Diné jazz trumpet artist Delbert Anderson, who blends Diné songs with jazz, funk, and hip-hop. Attendees can also enjoy a complimentary luncheon, a Hopi glass artist demonstration, and an artwork sale by the Indigenous Peoples Club. See our event listing for the detailed schedule: More info
? Volunteers Needed for Palm Springs Pride! ?
The Palm Springs Pride Festival 2024, taking place from October 31 to November 3 in Downtown Palm Springs, is seeking enthusiastic volunteers to support the LGBTQ+ community. Volunteers will assist with event logistics, crowd management, and more, all while promoting love and diversity. This is a great opportunity to gain valuable experience and enjoy the festivities from a unique perspective. Interested individuals can apply on the volunteer application page and be part of something special! ?
Tramway Snow Guessing Contest
Join the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway’s Annual Snow Guessing Contest by guessing when the first measurable inch of snow will fall at the Tramway’s Mountain Station, perched at an elevation of 8,516 feet. This beloved tradition not only celebrates the arrival of winter but also offers a chance to win Tram admission tickets. For more details, visit the official contest page.
“Say KGAY” Apparel
With Palm Springs Pride right around the corner, it’s time to “SAY KGAY!” – Our popular shirts are back with more options to choose your favorite background color and style of shirt. Pick a color and place our SAY KGAY slogan on the front or back. Get yours in time for Palm Springs Pride! Shop Now
Click below to sign up for our Gay Desert Guide Oasis Insiders Newsletter to get our Weekly Blog, Top 3 Events for the weekend, Hot Deals and Cool Events all delivered to your inbox every Friday!
- The Voice of the Divine: Demystifying the Tarot
Wed. Oct 9 at 5:30 pm at Mizell Center - Healing Rainbows Open House
Thu. Oct 10 from 4–6 pm - John Taylor Out & About at the McCallum
Fri. Oct 11 from 5:30–7:30 pm before Randy Rainbow Show - Randy Rainbow
Fri. & Sat. Oct 11 & 12 at 7:30 pm at the McCallum Theatre - Casual Concours 2024: Freeway of Love
Sat. Oct 12 from 9 am–2 pm at Indian Canyons Golf Resort - David Dean Bottrell: “The Death of Me Yet”
Sun. Oct 13 at 2 pm at Revolution Stage Company - Nicolas King, Richard Shelton and The Judy Show!
This weekend, Oct 11–13, at The Purple Room Supper Club - Dial “M” for Murder, presented by Desert Theatreworks
Oct 4–20 at Blackbox Theater - Shunned, presented by Palm Canyon Theatre
Oct 4, 5, 10, 12 & 13 - Sundew, presented by Palm Canyon Theatre
Oct 5, 6, 11 & 12 - 3rd Annual Pride on the Page Book Festival
Sun. Oct 20 from 10 am–5:30 pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center - Palm Springs Speaks: Donna Brazile
Tue. Oct 22 at 7 pm at Richards Center for the Arts - Two Toms: A Panel Discussion and Presentation
Thu. Oct 24 from 4:30–7 pm at Palm Springs Cultural Center - Modernism Week – October
Oct. 24–27 - Palm Springs Leather Pride 2024: Deeper Than Ever
Thu.–Sun. Oct 24–27 - Tom’s Annual Cigar and Pipe Social
Sat. Oct 26 from 2–5 pm - 2024 EQCA Equality Awards Palm Springs
Sat. Oct 26 from 3–6 pm at Margaritaville Resort - Halloween Palm Springs in Arenas District
Sun. Oct 27 from 4–10 pm - City of Palm Springs: State of the City
Wed. Oct 30 from 5–7 pm at the Annenberg Theater - Film Night: Tom of Finland and Selected Shorts
Wed. Oct 30 at 5 pm at Palm Springs Cultural Center - Palm Springs Pride 2024: “Be You”
Oct 31–Nov 3 - HRC Palm Springs Garden Party
Sat. Nov 2 from 2–4:30 pm - Front Runners & Walkers Palm Springs Pride 5k Run & Walk
Sat. Nov 2 from 2–4:30 pm - Palm Springs Pride Parade
Sun. Nov 3 at 10 am along Palm Canyon Drive - Next to Normal, presented by CVRep
Nov 6–17 - 20th Annual Greater Palm Springs Summit
Tue. Nov 19 from 8–11 am at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa Rancho Mirage - Rock the Park Season Four: First Wednesdays Dec–May
Wed. Dec 4 at 7 pm – A Tribute to Neil Diamond - 36th Annual Palm Springs International Film Festival and Awards
Jan 2–13, 2025
KGAY 106.5 & 92.1 FM
The KGAY 106.5 Retro Lunch airs Monday through Friday from noon–1 pm, with DJ Galaxy (Vincent Corrales) and DJ Eric Ornelas playing an hour of their high-energy throwback mixes. On Sundays, we put all five hours together for the Retro Sunday Brunch from 11 am–4 pm. Perfect party music! The KGAY 106.5 Sunday Tea Dance with Modgirl airs every Sunday from 4–6 pm (right after the Retro Brunch). Listen to KGAY 106.5 online
THIS WEEKEND: Modgirl will be spinning at the Casual Concours Car Show on Saturday, October 12 from 9 am–2 pm!
103.1 MeTV FM
103.1 MeTV FM is KGAY’s sister station, featuring timeless and memorable music including the ‘60s and ‘70s with a touch of the ‘50s and ‘80s. And hear “Goddard’s Gold” show at its new time Sunday mornings 9a–12 noon Listen online
Dive into Lost Property Restaurant at The Skylark Hotel, where coastal-inspired dishes with a modern edge meet craft cocktails — with a twist of fun. Tucked poolside at the newly restored California ’50s classic Skylark Hotel, Lost Property Restaurant offers laid-back lunches and stylish dinners with locally sourced, flavor-packed ingredients. Local Palm Springs residents and visitors are invited to Lost Property. Make it your new “go-to” spot for stunning mountain view meals and beach cocktail vibes. Learn more
- LGBTQ History Month Spotlights: Celebrating Unsung Icons
- Restaurant News Bites: Some Specials Worth Noting; Finally, a New Airport Bar; and More!
- Iconic Palm Springs Riviera Hotel Returns: Margaritaville Resort reverts to Classic Glamour
- Scenes from The Dinah 2024: The L Word Pool Party
- LGBTQ+ History Month is Celebrated Around the World. It All Started with One Man & A Dream
Find out what’s happening on any given day by browsing our Gay Desert Guide Online Event Listing Calendar, and for the big picture, take a look at major upcoming events in our 2024 Coachella Valley Calendar of Events.
Listen to KGAY 106.5 and 92.1 over the air, stream it [here], or listen on TuneIn Radio with Alexa or Siri by saying “Play K-GAY 1065 from Tune In Radio.” John Taylor is on mornings 6–10 am and program director Chris Shebel is on afternoons. Our Retro Lunch with DJ Galaxy and DJ Eric Ornelas is now heard on Sundays as the Retro Lunch & Sunday Brunch from 11 am–4 pm, followed by Modgirl spinning the KGAY Sunday Tea Dance from 4–6 pm.
