Accolades and admonishment. I’ve gotten both for dipping my toes in the political waters that we are now navigating two weeks into the new administration.
We take seriously our charge to be a voice for the LGBTQ+ communities that we serve both here in the pages of Gay Desert Guide and on our public airwaves. While KGAY makes listeners feel good with dance hits, it would be akin to Nero fiddling as Rome burned if we didn’t acknowledge and push back against the s**t show that we’re witnessing.
Silence = Death was a slogan I remember seeing throughout the AIDS crisis as a closeted kid in the Midwest. It was created in 1985; ACT-UP adopted the slogan and the poster in 1987. It resonates today:
*The pink triangle on the poster was a reference to the Nazi persecution of LGBTQ people.
*The poster was a call to action, as the group believed that silence and self-reliance would not stop AIDS deaths.
*The poster’s tagline referenced the deafening silence of the public and government, and the need for discussion, education, and action.
Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde spoke words of truth to power in a modern-day ACT-UP moment and was severely criticized by the President. But our community will not be silent 40 years on from the AIDS crisis. While we lost a generation of activists, there are many who remember and carry on. They teach a new generation of that dark time in our history, and draw parallels to modern day whitewashing of DEI, our transgender community and marriage equality.
So if you’re only interested in our weekly guide to events and the good times contained in my weekly blog or newsletter, you can simply skip this intro and scroll down. But we won’t be silenced at the injustices that are coming our way on a daily basis.
Brad Fuhr, your Gay Desert Guide on KGAY 106.5 Palm Springs
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Info-A-Go-Go
Join us at Info-A-Go-Go on Saturday, February 1 from 11 am–3 pm at the Palm Springs Pavilion. This one-stop-shop event is your opportunity to explore all things LGBTQ+ in the Coachella Valley. Now in its 8th year, the Info-A-Go-Go features diverse groups, clubs, organizations, and activities, all in one place. Hosted by The LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert, this year’s focus is on building community, connection, and a sense of belonging. KGAY will be there and John Taylor will be broadcasting from 11 am–1 pm! Come and be part of this amazing gathering that is truly ‘for us and by us!’ More info
Black History Month Kicks Off
In celebration of Black History Month, Palm Springs is hosting a series of exciting events. See below for more details for this weekend’s events and save the date for the Black History Parade and Town Fair on Saturday, February 22!
Our Voices, Our Stories
Our Voices, Our Stories: Celebrating Black Authors takes place on Saturday, February 1 from 10 am–4 pm. This special Black History Month event, hosted at both the Palm Springs Public Library and Mizell Center, celebrates the rich literary contributions of Black authors. Enjoy a day filled with engaging conversations with keynote speakers like Jenifer Lewis, authors Rasheed Newsom, Trisha R. Thomas, and Christian Cooper, and a hosted lunch provided by Q’s Creole and Soul Food. More info
Soul Springs Festival
Celebrate the vibrant sounds of soul and jazz at the Soul Springs Festival on Saturday, February 1 from 1–6 pm at Downtown Park in Palm Springs. This lively event features captivating live performances by top artists and an interactive Soul Music Sing-Along where attendees can join in on classic hits. This free festival fosters a sense of community and connection, inviting everyone to bring their lawn chairs and enjoy a memorable day with family and friends. More info
Palm Springs Black History Committee Awards Gala
The Palm Springs Black History Committee’s 15th Annual Awards Gala (Note: SOLD OUT) takes place on Saturday, February 1, from 6–8 pm at the Palm Springs Hilton. Desert X will be honored with the Community Partnership Award for their collaboration with the James O. Jessie Desert Highland Unity Center since 2021. More info
The Book of Mormon
Catch The Book of Mormon at the McCallum Theatre through Saturday, February 1, with performances at 2 pm and 8 pm on both Friday and Saturday. This nine-time Tony Award® winning musical comedy follows the adventures of a mismatched pair of missionaries. Praised as “the best musical of this century” by The New York Times and “the funniest musical of all time” by Entertainment Weekly, this international sensation has captivated audiences worldwide. A limited number of $25 tickets will be available via a lottery at the box office, with entries accepted starting two and a half hours before each performance. Get tickets
Sharon McNight: NO HOLDS BARRED!
The Purple Room Supper Club presents Sharon McNight: NO HOLDS BARRED! on Friday and Saturday, January 31 & February 2. Sharon is known for her “no holds barred” approach to performing which has earned the entertainer multiple honors and two Lifetime Achievement awards. She can make audiences laugh and cry at the same show with her eclectic bag of musical choices, ranging from blues to country to good old fashioned entertainment. Get tickets
Taste of Jalisco Festival
The Taste of Jalisco Festival in Cathedral City runs from Friday–Sunday, January 31–February 2 from 5–10 pm. This vibrant three-day celebration features live entertainment, a fair & carnival, an artisan market, tequila tastings, and mouthwatering Mexican cuisine like tacos and guacamole. Immerse yourself in the rhythmic sounds of live performers, explore handcrafted artisanal products, and enjoy the scenic desert backdrop. VIP packages offer exclusive access, premium tastings, and special amenities for an elevated festival experience. Get tickets
The Light in the Piazza
CVRep presents The Light in the Piazza from January 22–February 2. Winner of six Tony Awards & five Drama Desk Awards, The Light in the Piazza takes us to the Tuscan countryside where, a beautiful, surprisingly childish young woman loses her hat in a sudden gust. As if guided by the hand of the Sistine Chapel, the hat lands at the feet of a handsome young Florentine man. But as events unfold and secrets are revealed, we follow a love story unlike any other. Filled with a beautiful blend of classical and Broadway melodies, our theatre reviewer Stephen Radosh says “This is a beautiful production of a not-often-produced musical and deserves a date on your calendar.” Read his full review and Get tickets
Chuck Yates as Tru
Desert Ensemble Theatre presents Tru from January 24–February 2 at the Palm Springs Cultural Center. Celebrating Truman Capote’s centennial year, actor Chuck Yates recreates his critically acclaimed performance that he created for Coyote StageWorks in 2013 (“Performer of the Decade,” Broadway World/Palm Springs). Capote remains a literary icon, but today is perhaps more known for his infamous betrayal of his society “Swans” in the pages of Esquire. Adapted from the writer’s own words and works, Tru is a one-person tour-de-force. Our theatre reviewer Stephen Radosh says of Yates: “A performance as nuanced and layered as this one is, is truly a joy to watch and should not be missed.” Read his full review and Get tickets
Legally Blonde The Musical
Desert Theatreworks presents Legally Blonde The Musical from January 17–February 9. Follow Elle Woods as she takes on Harvard Law, fueled by the desire to win back her ex-boyfriend. With infectious energy and catchy tunes, the show captures Elle’s journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Along the way, she faces challenges from peers, professors, and her former flame, but with the help of newfound friends, she proves her resilience and determination. 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
Billy Joel Tribute at The Gardens
The Gardens on El Paseo 27th Annual Concert Series continues on Saturday, February 1 at 4 pm with Billy Nation (Billy Joel Tribute), benefiting Voices for Children. Reserve your tickets now and wine down on the Center Lawn, Saturday evenings to support your community. Upcoming benefit shows include: Journey Tribute (2/8), Rolling Stones Tribute (2/15), John Stanley King Band (2/22), Jimmy Buffett Tribute (3/1), and Rod Stewart Tribute (3/8). Get tickets
ALSO THIS WEEK
Friday, January 31
Food Truck Fridays in Downtown Indio | 5–10 pm
Saturday, February 1
Overview of Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Nat’l Monument | 9:30–10:30 am at the Visitor Center
Palm Springs Art Festival | Sat. & Sun. from 10 am–4 pm at Frances Stevens Park
Country Dance Saturdays: Roll Back The Rug Line Dance Lesson with Andrew Jimenez | 7 pm at Step by Step
Clint Black: 35th Anniversary of Killin’ Time | 8 pm at The Show
Sunday, February 2
Palm Springs Vintage Market | 7 am– 2 pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center
San Diego Symphony | 5 pm at the McCallum Theatre
DUI Checkpoint Friday
The Palm Springs Police Department will hold a DUI/Drivers License Checkpoint on Friday, January 31 from 7 pm–2 am at an undisclosed location within the city limits of 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.
Ask a Gay Doc Ep 20: Keeping New Year’s Resolutions
Dr. Renzo Corzano and KGAY’s John Taylor are answering your health-related questions in the Ask A Gay Doc series, sponsored by Desert Oasis Healthcare. In Episode 20, Dr Corzano shares tips on successfully keeping New Year’s health resolutions. Watch the Ask a Gay Doc series, and find out how you can submit your own questions, on the Ask a Gay Doc page at kgaypalmsprings.com.
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!
LOOKING AHEAD
Meet Patrick Evans & Discover Norway at The Purple Room
Join 103.1 MeTV FM’s Patrick Evans at The Purple Room Supper Club on Monday, February 3, from 4:30–6 pm for an exciting event where you’ll get the chance to learn how you can join him on the upcoming Tour of Norway. Scheduled for July 25 to August 2, 2025, this journey promises breathtaking landscapes, majestic mountains, glacial fjords, and legendary sights, including the iconic Oslo and charming towns of Bergen and Loen. Patrick Evans and a Collette representative will be on hand to share details and answer any questions. More info
Red Dress Tickets on Sale February 12
Don’t miss the highly anticipated Red Dress/Dress Red Dance Party on Saturday, March 15 from 8 pm–Midnight at the Palm Springs Air Museum. Tickets go on sale on Wednesday, February 12 and are expected to sell out fast, so mark your calendar! This event, featuring a stunning venue and a great cause, has become a highlight of the Palm Springs social scene, raising support for The LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert’s programs. Dress in red to show unity, solidarity, and community, and get ready for an unforgettable night. More info
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!
- Info-A-Go-Go
Sat Feb 1 from 11 am–3 pm at the Palm Springs Pavilion - The Book of Mormon
Thu.–Sat., Jan 30–Feb 1 at the McCallum Theatre - Sharon McNight: No Holds Barred!
Fri. & Sat. Jan 31 & Feb 1 at The Purple Room Supper Club - The Light in the Piazza, presented by CVRep
Jan 22–Feb 2 - Tru, presented by Desert Ensemble Theatre
Jan 24–Feb 2 at the Palm Springs Cultural Center - Legally Blonde The Musical, presented by Desert Theatreworks
Jan 17–Feb 9 at the Indio Performing Arts Center - Tour of Norway: Meet Patrick Evans
Mon. Feb 3 from 4:30–6 pm at The Purple Room Supper Club - Rock the Park: Twisted Gypsy – Fleetwood Mac Tribute
Wed. Feb 5 at 7 pm at Downtown Palm Springs Park - PS Test Fest Cocktail Party & Silent Auction
Thu. Feb 6 at 5:30 pm at Toucans Tiki Lounge - Perfect Arrangement, presented by The Bent
Thu. Feb 6 at 7 pm at Palm Springs Cultural Center - Stephen Harper, Former Canadian Prime Minister
Fri. Feb 7 at 5 pm at the Renaissance Esmeralda Resort - 27th Annual Tour de Palm Springs
Feb 7 & 8 in downtown Palm Springs - LGBTQ+ Victory Fund w/Keynote from Karine Jean-Pierre
Sat. Feb 8 from 11 am–2 pm in Palm Springs - Radical Harmonies Screening (Women’s Music Cultural Movement)
Sat. Feb 8 at 3 pm at Palm Springs Cultural Center - The Art Behind the Scarf – Textile Design of Fashion Icon Vera Neumann
Feb 8–Mar 3 at Rubine Red Gallery - Palm Springs Gay Softball League Tryouts & Clinics
Sun. Feb 9 at 9 am at Demuth Park - Soak, Sip & Paint at Miracle Springs Resort
Mon. Feb 10 from 4–8 pm - Tastes and Sounds of Cathedral City
Feb 11–Apr 8, Tuesdays from 5:30–7:30 pm at Cathedral City Amphitheater - The Desert Symphony: Ones – The Beatles #1 Hits
Thu. Feb 13 at 8 pm at the McCallum Theatre - Modernism Week – 20th Anniversary
Feb 13–23 - 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 - Rhythms at the Riviera – “Elton” with Kenny Metcalf and the Early Years Band
Sat. Feb 15 at 8 pm at the Riviera Resort & Spa - Racist Trees Documentary Screening
Sun. Feb 16 at 3 pm at Palm Springs Cultural Center - 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 - Annual Desert Pet Walk
Sat. Feb 22 from 9 am–Noon - Cathedral City LGBT+ Days
Mar 7–10 at Cathedral City Civic Center Plaza - Desert X 2025
Mar 8–May 12 at Various Locations Throughout Coachella Valley - Fashion Week El Paseo
Mar 14–19 at The Gardens on El Paseo - Red Dress Dress Red Party (Tickets on Sale Feb 12)
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 - Billy Idol: It’s a Nice Day To…Tour Again!
Fri. Sep 12 at 7:30 pm at Acrisure Arena
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
KGAY Wants to Hear From YOU!
As a KGAY 106.5 & 92.1 listener, you’re probably aware that we’ve been working hard to stay ahead of rapid changes in the radio and technology landscape. Our goal is to continue to provide great content the way that you want it on the platforms you use most often, so we’re inviting you to share your opinions about technology in our annual survey. Tell us how you use the radio, along with social media, smartphones, tablets, streaming and the web to stay connected to entertainment, news, and updates from KGAY and other sources. We hope you’ll find it to be an interesting way to reflect on your own changing habits as a KGAY fan and radio listener! Take the survey
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
- Palm Springs to Honor Black History Month, February 2025
- Modernism Week 2025 Offers Abundant Live Entertainment
- Restaurant News Bites: Get Ready for Various Food Fests; Alice B. Owners Help L.A. Fire Victims; and More!
- TRU – Reviewed by Stephen Radosh
- THE LIGHT IN THE PIAZZA – Reviewed by Stephen Radosh
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.