Randy Rainbow is a gay national treasure. Thank god we can claim him for our own! He and KGAY’s John Taylor got together for a video chat last week that’s gone viral on YouTube.
Just prior to the election, Randy will be kicking off the new season at the McCallum Theatre with his “Randy Rainbow for President” tour for two nights, Oct. 11 and 12. As this election cycle grows more cynical and outrageous, he’s got lots of material to draw from. It was just a year ago that Billboard Magazine published an article on the 45 times Randy had parodied the former president.
I think we’ll need the gay Rainbow to cleanse our election palate from all the negatively that’s being spewed on a daily basis. His latest book, “Low Hanging Fruit”, will be available in the lobby after the show. It’s also going to be an audiobook that sounds like an old fashioned radio show! Laughter is the best medicine, and I’m looking forward to an overdose!
Brad Fuhr, your Gay Desert Guide on KGAY 106.5 Palm Springs
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September Center Social at Hotel Zoso
Join the LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert for the September Center Social on Wednesday, September 25 from 5:30–7 pm at Hotel Zoso. This monthly gathering is a fantastic opportunity to connect with friends, meet new people, and enjoy a welcoming and supportive environment. Whether you’re a regular attendee or a first-timer, come and experience the vibrant community spirit that makes these socials so special. More info
The Dinah 2024
The Dinah Weekend 2024, the world’s largest event for lesbian and queer women, is this Wednesday–Sunday, September 25–29 at the Margaritaville Resort in Palm Springs. This iconic festival, renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and inclusive spirit, will feature a stellar lineup of performers including Lauren Jauregui, King Mala, Iniko, and many more. Attendees can look forward to a mix of live music, pool parties, and electrifying nightlife, creating an unforgettable celebration of community and culture. Check out our event listing for a full breakdown of all the parties: Get tickets
DBA Mixer at PS Homeboys
Join PS Homeboys owners Jeremy Taylor and Niels Kosman on Monday, September 23 at 5:30 pm as they host a Networking Mixer for the Desert Business Association (DBA). They will provide an overview of the upcoming Pride Under The Pines event on October 5 in Idyllwild. PS Homeboys, voted Best Furniture Showroom of the Coachella Valley, will also showcase their curated collection of Midcentury and modern furniture pieces, offering a range of options that cater to various aesthetics and preferences. More info
Planned Parenthood Cocktail Reception
On Wednesday, September 25, from 5:30–7:30 pm, Planned Parenthood of the Pacific Southwest will celebrate 61 years of dedicated service at the Avalon Hotel & Bungalows in Palm Springs. This community-wide event will reflect on the organization’s impactful history, look ahead to future goals, and uplift its vital mission, even more important in today’s political climate. Get tickets
Cinema Diverse 2024 – Weekend 2
The 17th anniversary celebration of LGBTQ+ cinema at Cinema Diverse 2024 continues for Weekend Two this Thursday–Sunday, September 26–29. The Palm Springs Cultural Center hosts this vibrant film festival, showcasing a diverse array of feature films and short films from around the world. This year’s lineup promises to captivate audiences with compelling stories, unique perspectives, and powerful performances. Audience members will have the chance to experience the magic of cinema and connect with filmmakers, actors, and fellow movie lovers. See our event listing for the full schedule of screenings: Get tickets
Catch this Cinema Diverse highlight on Friday, September 27: The 2024 Director’s Cut of “Gay Men’s Guide to Safer Sex ’97” is a pivotal piece in LGBTQ+ cinematic history. The original 1992 and 1997 films broke new ground by providing direct, no-nonsense sexual health information to gay men, challenging UK censorship norms with their explicit content. The 1997 film, featuring the iconic Aiden Shaw, continued this tradition. Following the screening, there will be a Q&A session with the film’s director, Rob Falconer, and Dr. Phyllis Ritchie of PS Test, offering deeper insights into the film’s impact and ongoing relevance. Get tickets
Debbie Gibson
On Friday, September 27, Oscar’s Palm Springs will host Debbie Gibson for a special event: “Acoustic Youth: Songs & Stories from the Electric Youth Era.” This intimate performance will feature Debbie at the piano, sharing stories and performing her classic hits in their purest form. The show starts at 7 pm, with doors opening at 5 pm for dinner and drinks in the outdoor courtyard. Fans can expect a nostalgic evening under the desert stars, celebrating the 35th anniversary of her iconic album Electric Youth. Get tickets
Palm Springs International Comedy Festival – LGBTQ+ Extravaganza
The Palm Springs International Comedy Festival is back this weekend, featuring a variety of comedy shows, films, Q&As, and parties. A highlight of the festival is the LGBTQ Comedy Extravaganza on Friday, September 27 at 7 pm at the Mary Pickford Theatre, promising a night of laughter and celebration of LGBTQ talent, including Pandora Boxx, Zach Noe Towers, Kelly Mantle, Jared Goldstein, and introducing Miranda Perry. Hosted by the legendary Tommi Rose. More details on our event listing: Get tickets
Sunnylands Films in the Gardens: ParaNorman
Sunnylands presents its popular Films in the Gardens series, this week featuring ParaNorman on Friday, September 27 at 7:30 pm. In the animated film ParaNorman (2012), a misunderstood boy who can speak to the dead must save his town from a centuries-old curse involving ghosts, zombies, and witches. Enjoy this free outdoor movie night; bring your lawn chairs, blankets, and small picnics to the beautiful gardens of Sunnylands Center & Gardens in Rancho Mirage, perfect for a cozy evening under the stars. More info
ALSO THIS WEEK
Tuesday September 24
Rancho Mirage Chamber “Show Your Heart” Mixer | 4–6 pm at Indian Wells Country Club
Palm Springs Toastmasters | 6 pm at The LGBTQ Community Center of The Desert
Wednesday, September 25
Volunteer for Will Rollins for Congress | 10 am–12 pm in Palm Springs
GCVC Morning Mixer | 8–10 am at Coachella Valley Rescue Mission
Len Rainey and the Midnight Players | 7 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs
Thursday, September 26
Virtuosic Andrew Cohen – Balkan Jazz | 7 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs
Friday, September 27
Morongo Thunder & Lightning Powwow | Fri–Sun at Morongo Casino Resort & Spa
Country Dance Fridays: Beginner Shadow with Rob Ollander-Krane | 7 pm at Step by Step
17th Annual Palm Springs Mind Body Spirit Weekend | Friday–Sunday at Crystal Fantasy
BearUnion | 8 am–4 pm at Club 541
REO Speedwagon | RESCHEDULED to December 8 at 8 pm at The Show
Saturday, September 28
Torch Relay Benefitting Children’s Hospital LA | 8 am at Marriott’s Desert Springs Villas
Palm Springs Certified Farmers’ Market | 8 am–1 pm indoors at the Palm Springs Pavilion
Palm Springs Police Dept. “Behind the Badge” Open House | 3–6 pm at 200 S. Civic Drive
The Black Keys | 7 pm at Acrisure Arena
THIS WEEKEND
Cinema Diverse: Witchy Ways
Cinema Diverse presents the world premiere of Witchy Ways on Friday, September 27 at 6 pm. Writer/Director Jane Clark (Meth Head, Crazy Bitches) returns with a supernatural film inspired by Practical Magic: Eve (Diora Baird) quits the rat race and heads to a cabin to rediscover herself. There she finds herself falling for dynamic property owner, Danni (Marem Hassler). As they grow closer, Danni confesses she is a witch, but hides a ghostly secret that threatens to destroy their fragile relationship. Co-starring Candis Cayne as Eve’s best friend and Marc “Skippy” Price (Family Ties) as the angry neighbor. Get tickets
This Weekend at The Purple Room
This weekend at the Purple Room in Palm Springs promises a delightful lineup of entertainment. On Friday, September 27, Chuck Sweeney will dazzle audiences with his acclaimed tribute show, “Peggy’s Back! Chuck Sweeney as Miss Peggy Lee,” bringing the legendary singer’s charm and music to life. The following night, Saturday, September 28, Grammy-nominated singer/songwriter Clint Holmes will present “Icons Reimagined,” a unique performance where he reinterprets songs by iconic artists from movies and Broadway. The weekend culminates on Sunday, September 29, with “The Judy Show,” featuring Michael Holmes’ hilarious and musical parody of Judy Garland and her famous guests, promising an evening of nonstop laughs and glamour. Get tickets
“We’re Not Dead Yet” Comedy Show
Comedians Jason Stuart and Julie Goldman (#DumbGayPolitics) are headlining We’re Not Dead Yet! on Saturday, September 28 at 8 pm at Revolution Stage Company. Two of the most dynamic, outrageous stand-up comedians are coming together in one show! Both have been major forces in the world of stand-up and groundbreakers in LGBTQ comedy for over 30 years, and both are over 50 in a time where most performers are on their knees at the fountain of youth! Join them for an evening of LOL stand up comedy. Get tickets
Kick Bullying to the Curb Wellness Festival
The 2nd Annual Kick Bullying To The Curb Wellness Festival by Boo2Bullying is set for Saturday, September 28, from 10 am–3 pm at the Palm Springs Power Stadium. Attendees can enjoy family-friendly activities such as glitter bracelets, balloon animals, face-painting, and a petting zoo. Boo2Bullying and community partners will host information booths, and there will be a celebrity kickball game featuring Coachella Valley notables and Hollywood actors. The festival aims to provide outreach, mentoring, and hope to bullied youth and their families. Advance registration recommended. More info
Riverside Pride BBQ Jam
The Riverside PRIDE BBQ Jam is set to take place on Saturday, September 28, from 12–8 pm. This free family-friendly event will feature a vibrant mix of music, food, artists, and games. Attendees can enjoy performances by DJs and drag artists, along with a variety of delicious treats from local vendors. The event aims to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community with a lively block party atmosphere, offering activities for all ages. While admission is free, tickets are required and can be obtained in advance from the event’s official page. Get tickets
Michael’s House Recovery Festival
Join Michael’s House in celebrating the strength and resilience of those on their recovery journey at their Recovery Festival on Saturday, September 28 from 4–6:30 pm at the Michael’s House Outpatient Center in Palm Springs. This free event will feature inspiring talks from alumni speakers Ken Forstrom and Hany Samaan, and motivational insights from Sonny Von Cleveland. Enjoy delicious food, exciting games, a fun photo booth, and great music. Families are welcome, with activities like a bounce house, face painting, and balloons for kids. More info
Jerry Seinfeld
Jerry Seinfeld, the master of observational comedy, is set to perform live at The Show at Agua Caliente Casino this Saturday, September 28 in a SOLD OUT show. Fear not, he returns on Saturday, March 8, 2025 and tickets are on sale now. Known for his iconic sitcom “Seinfeld” and his Emmy-nominated Netflix specials, Seinfeld continues to captivate audiences with his witty insights and timeless humor. Get tickets
Best of Coachella Valley Voting Begins
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! The winners and other results will be announced at CVIndependent.com on Monday, Nov. 25; on News Channel 3 the week of Dec. 2; and in the special Best of Coachella Valley section in the Independent’s December 2024 print edition. Vote Today
Best of Desert Community’s Choice Voting Begins
The Best of Desert Community’s Choice Awards voting round has also begun; join in celebrating your favorite local businesses and organizations with your vote. We are proud to have scored several nominations! Vote for your favorites, including our two radio stations: KGAY 106.5 and 103.1 MeTV FM. Don’t forget our on-air personalities John Taylor (KGAY 106.5 FM) and Patrick Evans (103.1 MeTV FM) as well as DJ Galaxy and Modgirl. The categories to look for are:
- Entertainment & Leisure > Radio Station – Local
- Entertainment & Leisure – People > Radio Personality/Show
- Entertainment & Leisure – People > DJ – Event/Wedding
We know we have the best audience in the valley and appreciate your support! Voting is open through Monday, September 30. VOTE Today!
Lesbian Health Survey
A network of Coachella Valley lesbian and queer women’s support groups is conducting a Lesbian Health Survey to address health disparities and enhance care. Community members can participate by visiting bit.ly/ValleyHealth. The survey will gather data to inform future health initiatives and support services for lesbian and bisexual women in the valley. Learn more
Visitor Map & Guide
Check out our KGAY 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 of our printed version around town if you’re here, or if planning a visit, you can download it right here, right now!
LOOKING AHEAD
Premium Bourbon Tasting and Barrel Reveal
Join Master Distiller Donnis Todd at The Purple Room on Monday, September 30 from 6–8 pm for an exclusive Garrison Brothers Premium Bourbon Tasting and Barrel Reveal event. Attendees will enjoy light hors d’oeuvres while learning about the history and craftsmanship of Texas’ first legal distillery. Todd will present and unveil a unique single barrel bourbon available only at The Purple Room.Don’t miss this opportunity to experience one of the most respected bourbon brands and discover new, limited releases. Get tickets
“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!
KGAY 106.5 & 92.1 FM
KGAY 106.5 & 92.1 FM wants you to WIN A PAIR OF TICKETS to Hokus Pokus Live!. This 90-minute parody of the classic ’90s movie comes to Hotel Zoso on Friday, Saturday, & Sunday, October 4, 5 & 6. Set in 2024, the Sanderson Sisters are back, trying to stay alive and younger in the new millennium. Join Ginger Minj, Gidget Galore, and Aria Hard for this madcap musical misadventure! [More info]. Don’t miss this magical live performance in the Coachella Valley. Enter to WIN on the KGAY Contest Page!
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 Saturday, September 28, Modgirl will be spinning at Neon Oasis from 9 pm–2 am!
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. Listen online
- The Dinah Weekend
Sep 25–29 at Margaritaville Resort (and more) - Cinema Diverse: The Palm Springs LGBTQ Film Festival
Sep 26–29 at the Palm Springs Cultural Center - Peggy’s Back w/Chuck Sweeny, Clint Holmes, plus The Judy Show!
This weekend, Sep 27-29, at The Purple Room Supper Club - Cinema Diverse: Witchy Ways
Fri. Sep 27 at 6 pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center - Kick Bullying to the Curb Wellness Festival
Sat. Sep 28 from 10 am–3 pm at Palm Springs Power Stadium - Premium Bourbon Tasting and Barrel Reveal
Mon. Sep 30 from 6–8 pm 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 - Pride Under the Pines 2024
Sat. Oct 5 in Idyllwild - One Night Out Rio
Sat. Oct 5 from 6–10 pm at the Palm Springs Air Museum - Rock the City: The Dreamboats
Sat. Oct 5 at 6 pm at Palm Springs Downtown Park - 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 - 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 - 2024 EQCA Equality Awards Palm Springs
Sat. Oct 26 from 3–6 pm at Margaritaville Resort - 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 - Palm Springs Pride Parade
Sun. Nov 3 at 10 am along Palm Canyon Drive - 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
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H3K Home+Design provides a wide range of interior design services and solutions for residential and commercial clients. Their home furnishing showrooms feature Midcentury modern and contemporary decor while focusing on quality, functionality, exceptional design, and affordability. Their Interior Design Team will dazzle you with their fabulous and affordable furnishings and help you achieve design nirvana. You can shop online 24/7 from the comfort of your living room at H3K Home+Design Online! Learn more
My Little Flower Shop offers flowers & bouquets for weddings, gifts, LGBTQ, special occasions, funerals, and flowers for all kinds of events. They are the premiere full service floral and event design studio in Palm Springs. Combined, their staff has over 50 years experience designing, planning and executing one-of-a-kind, high profile social, corporate and charity benefit special events, including the Academy Awards and Presidential Inaugurations. Learn more
- Hiking With T: Enjoy a Variety of Outdoor Events Now That Cooler Temps Are Finally Here
- Palm Springs AIDS Memorial Task Force Shares New Memorial Design
- Neon Trees to Headline Palm Springs Pride’s Día de la Reina Opening Night of Pride Week on October 31, 2024
- Voting in California? Here Are 8 Places to Find Unbiased Election Info and Fact Checks
- The Washington Blade Interviews President Joe Biden
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.
