When Palm Springs was a weekend getaway destination for me, one of my favorite spots was Azul & George’s Alibi at 369 N. Palm Canyon. The outdoor bar and swinging seats holds fond memories. It’s been mostly vacant for years now. (Last time I was there I got COVID after watching Big Freedia. But I digress.)
I parked on a dirt lot at Alejo and Palm Canyon which had been vacant for years. Signs pronounced “Coming Soon: Port Lawrence, a residential development with resort amenities,” according to the New York Times. Now, some 17 years later, The Thompson Hotel, one of Hyatt’s lifestyle brands, has opened on that site!
I’ve been watching the progress wax and wane over the years, but when the Hall family took it over the finish line was in sight. Kelly Teo, Thompson’s marketing director, took me on a hard hat tour in May of 2023 and it was impressive even while the scaffolding was still up.
Now, the connection between Uptown and Downtown is complete. The hotel is open, as is Lola Rose restaurant, which I had the pleasure of sampling last week. You’ll still see work happening on the site as retail and the remainder of the rooms are finished. Another eyesore converted to a beautiful architectural gem for our city!
Brad Fuhr, your Gay Desert Guide on KGAY 106.5 Palm Springs
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Pride Under the Pines
Pride Under The Pines, produced by PS Homeboys and proudly sponsored by KGAY & Gay Desert Guide, is set to be an exciting celebration of diversity and community, on Saturday, October 5 from 12–9 pm in Idyllwild—Act fast to get your half-off KGAY Party Bus ticket HOT DEAL by noon on Friday!—This year’s event will feature headlining performances by Kristine W and the charismatic John Duff and hosted by Sabryna Williams. Attendees can also look forward to a drag show, Boozehounds Tea & Shade by the Lunchettes, a screening of Hairspray (2007), and beats by DJ Galaxy of KGAY’s Retro Lunch. Stop by the KGAY booth and enter to win a BearCruise.com Rhine River “Bear”varian Christmas Markets cruise! Get tickets
One Night Out Rio
Get ready to be swept away by the vibrant energy of Rio de Janeiro at One Night Out Rio on Saturday, October 5 from 6–10 pm at the Palm Springs Air Museum. This blockbuster event promises an unforgettable evening filled with delicious food, refreshing cocktails, and mesmerizing Brazilian entertainment, all in support of The Foundation for Palm Springs Unified School District. The highlight of the night will be a spectacular performance by Heart of Samba, featuring the charismatic Bruno Alcantara from RuPaul’s Drag Race Pit Crew. Experience the kaleidoscopic euphoria of a Brazilian Carnival right here in Palm Springs! Get tickets
Hokus Pokus Live
Hokus Pokus Live is a 90-minute parody of the classic ’90s movie, coming to Hotel Zoso on Friday, Saturday, & Sunday, October 4, 5 & 6 (Fri/Sat at 7 pm, Sun at 2 pm). 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! Don’t miss this magical live performance. Get tickets
Palm Springs Car Show and Festival
The Palm Springs Chamber of Commerce is hosting a Car Show & Festival on Saturday, October 5 from 10 am–4 pm in Downtown Palm Springs. This event will feature a stunning array of classic cars, exotics, street rods, trucks, muscle cars, sports cars, and antique vehicles. Attendees can enjoy live entertainment, a custom dog park for pets, Marilyn lookalike and cutest dog contests and more. Stick around for a free concert in the park by The Dreamboats at 6 pm. It’s a fantastic opportunity for car enthusiasts and families to come together and enjoy a day filled with automotive beauty, and community spirit! More info
House Party PS: It’s a Mod Mod World
The Richmond/Ermet Aid Foundation, Byron Hancock and Len Handeland invite you to House Party PS: It’s a Mod Mod World on Saturday, October 5 from 5–8 pm, celebrating all things Mid-Century in Byron and Len’s fully remodeled mid-century home that was featured in last year’s Mid-Century Modern Home Tours. This special party benefits Safe Schools Desert Cities, a unique organization that protects LGBT kids from bullying and helps promote safe environments in the Coachella Valley’s Desert Cities schools. Admission includes open bar, appetizers, and performances by Sharon Sills, Charles Herrera & Christine Nunez. 60’s colorful attire recommended! Get tickets
This Weekend at The Purple Room
The Purple Room Supper Club has an exciting lineup of performances this weekend: On Friday, October 4, Janis Siegel, a nine-time Grammy winner and member of The Manhattan Transfer, will be performing alongside pianist Yaron Gershovsky. This evening promises to be filled with jazz and soulful melodies. On Saturday, October 5, Chadwick Johnson presents Fire and Rain: Singer Songwriters of the ’70s, taking the audience on a nostalgic journey through the music of the 1970s. Finally, on Sunday, October 6, The Judy Show! will offer a lively and entertaining performance featuring impersonations, comedy, and classic hits. Get tickets
Dial “M” for Murder
Desert Theatreworks presents Dial “M” for Murder, opening Friday, October 4 and running through Sunday, October 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 October 5, 6, 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
PS Candidates Forum 2024
ONE-PS (Organized Neighborhoods of Palm Springs) presents a Candidates Forum on Saturday, October 5 at 1 pm at Demuth Park Community Center, moderated by Palm Springs Post Editor Mark Talkington. Candidates include: District 4: Ernest Ceceña, Joe Jackson, Anna Nevenic, David Rios, and Naomi Soto. From District 5: David Ready. More info
Will Rollins Ice Cream Social
“Get the Scoop” on getting out the vote at the Will Rollins Ice Cream Social on Sunday, October 6 from 2–4 pm in Palm Springs. Congressman Adam Schiff and Senator Barbara Boxer will also be in attendance. Address provided 48 hours prior to event. More info
Palm Springs Certified Farmers’ Market Returns to Outdoor Location
The Palm Springs Certified Farmers Market is returning to its outdoor location from October through May at the Palm Springs Cultural Center parking lot, starting October 5 from 8 am–1 pm. This market offers a vibrant selection of fresh local produce, herbs, honey, nuts, cheese, cut flowers, and freshly baked breads. Visitors can also enjoy live music, making it a delightful community event. More info
Vintage Market Returns
The Palm Springs Vintage Market kicks off its season on Sunday, October 6, from 7 am–2 pm, offering a fantastic opportunity to explore a wide range of vintage, mid-century modern, and antique treasures. This lively market features vendors, live music, and delicious food. Running on the first Sunday of each month from October to May, it’s a must-visit event for vintage enthusiasts. More info
Epson Tour Championship
The Epson Tour Golf Championship is set to take place at the Indian Wells Golf Resort from October 3–6. This prestigious event marks the finale of the Epson Tour, the official qualifying tour for the LPGA. Golf enthusiasts can look forward to witnessing top-tier talent compete on the celebrated Players Course, with a $250,000 purse at stake. The championship promises an exciting culmination to the season, showcasing the future stars of women’s golf. Get tickets
ALSO THIS WEEKEND
Friday, October 4
Country Dance Fridays: Bad Things Line Dance with Andrew Jimenez | 7 pm at Step by Step
Mount: Cowboys Bustin’ Broncos | Oct. 4 & 5 at CCBC Resort
First Friday Art Walk on Perez Road | 5–8 pm in Cathedral City
Desert Art Center Special Season Opening Reception | 5–7 pm
Singing With the Desert Stars | 6:30 pm at Palm Springs Cultural Center
Preseason: Los Angeles Lakers v. Minnesota Timberwolves | 7:30 pm at Acrisure Arena
Saturday, October 5
Paradise Bazaar Pop-Up | 9 am–2 pm at Palm Springs Woman’s Club
Los Angeles Equality Awards | 6–10 pm at Fairmont Century Plaza
Rock the City: The Dreamboats | 6 pm at Palm Springs Downtown Park
The Righteous Brothers | 8 pm at The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa Rancho Mirage
Sunday, October 6
Preseason: Los Angeles Lakers v. Phoenix Suns | 6:30 pm at Acrisure Arena
It’s Not Just a Job, It’s a KGAY Adventure!
Be an Appearance Ambassador for KGAY & Gay Desert Guide! We’ll be at FUN events this fall, including Palm Springs Pride. We need the full spectrum of LGBTQ+ ambassadors to help at our events, broadcasts and to engage with listeners.
Join our team! Check out the full description and apply at this link: https://tinyurl.com/JoinKGAY
Pride Honors Awards
John Taylor, our charismatic Morning Show host on KGAY 106.5 & 92.1, was honored with Palm Springs Pride’s prestigious “Spirit of Pride” award at the Pride Honors Awards ceremony on Wednesday, October 2. This accolade celebrates Taylor’s unwavering dedication to the LGBTQ+ community through his show, which has become a beacon of positivity and inclusivity in Palm Springs. Congratulations to John and all the honorees!
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! 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
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
? 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.
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
“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!
- 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 - Janis Siegel, Chadwick Johnson, and The Judy Show!
This weekend, Oct 4–6, 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 - Back to Big Bear Giveaway
Sep. 23–Oct 29 - 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 - 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 - 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: DJ Galaxy will be spinning at Pride Under the Pines on Saturday!
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.
