Gay Desert Guide Weekend: Feb 14-16, 2025

Modernism and McCarthyism ran parallel paths in the 50s. Today one thrives while the other is history repeating itself.

We celebrate Modernism Week starting this Valentine’s Day as a new kind of “red scare” descends upon our world.

1950s and 60s Modernism architecture was a time of innovation and a break from traditional styles. It was characterized by functional spaces, open plans, and the use of new materials and technologies. And Palm Springs has become the epicenter of this revered form of architecture.

McCarthyism’s anti-communist crusade and fear of Soviet influence on American institutions created an environment that suppressed art and artistic expression. There was a “rooting out” of people from government, education, institutions and especially, the press. Washington D.C. is now in the crosshairs again with a new form of McCarthyism.

We remember that McCarthy had a right hand man – the “Elon Musk” of the era — in Roy Cohn. Ironically, Cohn was a closeted gay man who is credited for helping Trump come to power. The BBC article on the film The Apprentice describes how Cohn taught him to “attack, counterattack and never apologize.” Sound familiar?

While we celebrate Modernism’s well-preserved examples in the Coachella Valley, we must remember that during that same period the United States was melting down under McCarthyism. Today is much the same.

This is not the time to ignore the news of the day and stand idly by. Last Friday’s Arenas protest was but one act of defiance. Many more will be needed in order for the new “red tide” to be turned back. John Taylor is covering the local events that call us to action on the KGAY morning show each weekday. We’ll be posting about those protests on our socials — as long as we’re not silenced by Meta and TikTok as we were by Twitter/X.

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!
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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!

Palm Springs Modernism Show

The Palm Springs Modernism Show runs from Friday, February 14 to Monday, February 17 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. The Show opens with a festive Opening Night Party on Friday, February 14, from 6–9 pm, with open bar, hors d’oeuvres, a show catalog, live music, and early access to shopping. The Show continues through the weekend: Saturday, February 15 from 10 am–6 pm; Sunday, February 16 from 10 am–5 pm; and Monday, February 17 from 10 am–4 pm. There will be a free Classic Car Show on Monday from 12 pm – 3 pm in front of the convention center. Get tickets

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

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Out at the Fair® – Riverside County Fair and National Date Festival

The Riverside County Fair & National Date Festival runs from Thursday, February 13–Sunday, March 2, 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

Celebrate community and inclusivity at the 3rd Annual Out at the Fair (OATF) at the Riverside County Fair & National Date Festival on Saturday, February 15. This all-day event on the Pageant Stage features exciting performances and activities, kicking off at 11 am, featuring emcees Alexander Rodriguez and Landa Plenty. The diverse lineup includes Zumba class, live music from bands like Arena Red Band and KINGQUEEN, and the first LGBTQ+ Mariachi Band, Mariachi Arco-Iris de Los Angeles. Attendees can also enjoy The Glam Show featuring RuPaul’s Drag Race star Scarlet Envy and other talented drag performers. The event wraps up with the Date Pageant at 7:30 pm and an all-ages dance party with DJ Lotus at 8:30 pm. Join the fun and celebrate diversity at this vibrant and inclusive event! More info

OATF Bingo with Deven & Ned

Come join the fun at Out at the Fair® Bingo with the fabulous Deven Green and her co-host, Ned, on Saturday, February 15 from 1:30–3 pm. Held in The Shalimar Building, this lively event promises a hilarious and eco-friendly experience with 100% digital bingo. More info

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Valentine’s Day Activities

Celebrate Valentine’s Day on Friday, February 14 in Palm Springs with a variety of exciting activities. Enjoy the Modernism Show exhibition at the convention center, or catch a show like Avenue Q, Perfect Arrangement, The Odd Couple (Female Version), or Razzle Dazzle, featuring Broadway Love Songs. For a romantic experience, get Valentine’s Day Ride ‘n’ Dine tickets on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, offering breathtaking views and a delightful dinner. Explore new restaurants in the area or dine at longtime favorites like Lulu California Bistro. For those going solo: Play Cafe and Lounge has you covered with a Singles Awareness Party…with pizza!

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Welcome, Gay Pilots Association

The National Gay Pilots Association’s Palm Springs Winter Warm-Up takes place this weekend, February 13–16 in Palm Springs. As the largest annual gathering for the NGPA, the Winter Warm-Up offers a unique mid-winter retreat for pilots, aviation professionals, and flying fans alike. More info

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The Velvet Rope Open House

The Velvet Rope Open House, a featured event during Modernism Week, takes place on Friday–Sunday, February 14–16, from 11 am–4 pm. This special occasion celebrates the legacy of Herbert W. Burns, a renowned designer who created stunning homes and boutique hotels in Palm Springs. The event pays homage to the golden era of Hollywood, honoring classic actors who once resided in the iconic Old Las Palmas neighborhood. Explore the beautifully designed rooms of a majestic 10-bedroom boutique hotel, showcasing vintage charm with glamorous Hollywood Regency renovations by celebrity designer David Rios. Experience a day of design, history, and nostalgia as you step into the glamour of mid-century Palm Springs. Get tickets

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Racist Trees Documentary Screening

Catch the powerful screening of Racist Trees on Sunday, February 16 from 3–5 pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center. This impactful documentary delves into the controversy surrounding a wall of tamarisk trees that separated a predominantly Black neighborhood in Palm Springs, highlighting the community’s struggle with segregation and feelings of isolation. Sponsored by the Coachella Valley Journalism Foundation and the Palm Springs Black History Committee, the screening will be followed by a panel discussion with the film’s producers, residents of the Crossley neighborhood, and the editor of The Desert Sun. Get tickets

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“ELTON” Kenny Metcalf and the Early Years Band

Rhythms at the Riviera presents “ELTON” featuring Kenny Metcalf and The Early Years Band on Saturday, February 15 from 8–10 pm. Kenny Metcalf brings Elton John to life with his voice, appearance, and meticulously recreated details, from rhinestones to sequins. Iconic costumes, including the Los Angeles Dodgers uniform designed by Bob Mackie and glasses by Ray Winston, complete the illusion. Those fortunate enough to have seen Elton perform live will experience a sense of “Deja Vu” during Kenny’s captivating performance. Get tickets

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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

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Perfect Arrangement

THE BENT presents Perfect Arrangement from February 6–16 at the Palm Springs Cultural Center, inspired by the true story of the earliest stirrings of the gay rights movement. This hard to believe but historically accurate tale merges madcap sitcom-style laughs with provocative drama as two closeted U.S. State Department employees struggle to maintain their cover – and their sanity – in 1950s America, a world recently depicted in Matt Bomer’s Fellow Travelers. These married co-workers not only share a secret, they are also next door neighbors who share a wall. Get tickets

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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

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Gay Softball Tryouts

Join the Palm Springs Gay Softball League for their Spring 2025 tryouts and clinics on Saturday, February 15 at 9 am. Held at DeMuth Park in Palm Springs on Field #7, these clinics welcome all players, regardless of identity or experience. Meet new friends, assess your skill level, and get assigned to a team that matches your abilities. Whether you’re a beginner, haven’t played in a long time, or want to play competitively, there’s a place for you in the league. More info

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This Weekend at the McCallum Theatre

On Friday, February 14 at 8 pm and Saturday, February 15 at 2 pm & 8 pm, the McCallum Theatre presents “George Gershwin Alone,” telling the story of the legendary composer with performances of his best-known songs, including a complete rendition of “Rhapsody in Blue.” Finally, on Sunday, February 16 at 3 pm, Jeffrey Siegel’s “Schubert: Subtle and Sublime” offers an enchanting exploration of Franz Schubert’s music through performances of waltzes, impromptus, and sonatas. Get tickets

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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

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Have a Heart for Homeless Pets Drag Bingo Fundraiser

Join Animal Samaritans at Dick’s on Arenas for the Have a Heart for Homeless Pets Drag Bingo Fundraiser on Saturday, February 15 from 2–4 pm. Support the No Kill Shelter while enjoying an afternoon of entertaining Bingo rounds with fellow animal lovers. Hosted by Sister Burna Cross, this fabulous event promises fun and camaraderie for a great cause. More info

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Christopher Kennedy Midcentury Home Tour

Don’t miss the chance to join acclaimed interior designer Christopher Kennedy for an exclusive home tour in support of the Palm Springs Animal Shelter on Saturday, February 15 from 1–3 pm. Attendees will tour a stunning 5,000-square-foot ground-up construction designed by Kennedy and get a preview of his plans for the transformation of a newly acquired “Before” home. Enjoy a bubbly reception at the “Before” home and envision its incredible potential. Get tickets

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Rolling Stones Tribute at The Gardens on El Paseo

The Gardens on El Paseo 27th Annual Concert Series continues on Saturday, February 15 at 4 pm with Jumping Jack Flash (Rolling Stones Tribute), benefiting Parade Charities. Reserve your tickets now and wine down on the Center Lawn, Saturday evenings to support your community. Upcoming benefit shows include: John Stanley King Band (2/22), Jimmy Buffett Tribute (3/1), and Rod Stewart Tribute (3/8). Get tickets

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Bosom Buddies Starring Sherry Vine & Billy L’Amour

Get ready for a night of glamour and laughs at Toucans in Palm Springs on Saturday, February 15 at 7 pm with “Bosom Buddies,” starring Sherry Vine and Billy L’Amour! This brand-new, all-live-singing drag revue combines old-school Hollywood glam with sassy and naughty drag comedy. Featuring hilarious song parodies and scintillating choreography, the show includes songs from icons like Marilyn Monroe to contemporary artists like Chappell Roan. This dynamic duo promises an evening filled with unforgettable entertainment and SHELarious fun. Get tickets

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ALSO THIS WEEK

Friday, February 14 – Valentine’s Day
Ride ‘n’ Dine for Valentine’s Day | After 4 pm at the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
Elizabeth “Beth” Edwards – Walk of the Stars Ceremony | 2 pm at 300 S. Palm Canyon Dr.

Saturday, February 15
Boys in the Sand: Horace Gifford and the Architecture of Seduction | 9 am at CAMP Theater
The Protagonists: New Works by Eric Rewitzer | 4 pm at James Bacchi Contemporary
Celebrating Modernism Week at Artier Fine Art Gallery | 6–9 pm
Country Dance Saturdays: Beginner Two Step with Jan Alden | 7 pm at Step by Step
Broadway’s Best in the West: Stephanie J. Block | 7 pm at Palm Springs Cultural Center

Sunday, February 16
Palm Springs Vintage Market Modernism Week Edition | 7 am–2 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs

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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!

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LOOKING AHEAD

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

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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

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!

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• Modernism Week – 20th Anniversary
  Feb 13–23
• Palm Springs Modernism Show
  Feb 14–17 at the Palm Springs Convention Center
• Riverside County Fair & National Date Festival
  Feb 13–Mar 2 at Riverside County Fairgrounds, Indio
• Out at the Fair at the Riverside County Fair
  Sat. Feb 15 at Riverside County Fairgrounds, Indio
• The Velvet Rope Open House During Modernism Week
  Fri.–Sun., Feb 14–16
• Palm Springs Gay Softball League Tryouts & Clinic
  Sat. Feb 15 at 9 am at Demuth Park
• Rhythms at the Riviera – “Elton” with Kenny Metcalf and the Early Years Band
  Sat. Feb 15 at 8 pm at the Riviera Resort & Spa
• Modernism Week Events: Tour The Shag House
  Feb 16–22 at The Shag House
• Racist Trees Documentary Screening
  Sun. Feb 16 at 3 pm at Palm Springs Cultural Center
• 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
• Perfect Arrangement, presented by The Bent
  Feb 6–16 at the Palm Springs Cultural Center
• The Art Behind the Scarf – Textile Design of Fashion Icon Vera Neumann
  Feb 8–Mar 3 at Rubine Red Gallery
• Sazerac Premium Bourbon Tasting
  Mon. Feb 17 from 6–8 pm at The Purple Room Supper Club
• 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
• An Evening with John Cameron Mitchell
  Fri. Feb 28 from 5:30–9 pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center
• 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
• 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
• 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