Rarely do “the ends justify the means”, but in the case of the Palm Springs AIDS Memorial, I may make an exception. Artist Phillip K. Smith III went back to the drawing board after a flurry of negative comments on the first design to create this new version seen here.
To those in the community who provided positive feedback, I say thank you. Unfortunately in today’s social media world, the sniping and griping hit a new low. Decorum went out the window. Thursday’s unveiling of the new design seems to have calmed those comments.
Arguably, the first design hit a raw nerve that was exposed by years of individual experiences during the AIDS crisis that had a profound and lasting effect on us. Those wounds may never heal for some, and the emotion expressed was real, just many times misplaced.
So we now have a design that I hope can be installed by Worlds AIDS Day 2025. But first, there’s an approval process and some more fundraising to make this a reality. I hope both move along quickly. I just made small contribution to show my support, and encourage you to do the same.
The Palm Springs AIDS Memorial is one of three public arts projects on the drawing board to honor and recognize the many contributions and sacrifices made by our LGBTQ+ communities. It’s a trifecta I look forward to seeing completed before the end of the first term of the Harris administration…
P.S. I’m proud to have Bruce Fessier contributing to Gay Desert Guide. Read his article on Liberace’s affect on the AIDS movement on the site and linked below.
Brad Fuhr, your Gay Desert Guide on KGAY 106.5 Palm Springs
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Sunnylands Films in the Gardens: Labyrinth
Sunnylands is bringing back its popular Films in the Gardens just in time for the beautiful cooler weather this weekend! Starting with the 1986 fantasy film classic Labyrinth on Friday, September 13, enjoy free outdoor movie nights on three consecutive Friday evenings at 7:30 pm. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets, and small picnics for a cozy evening under the stars. Also, a note for those looking for outdoor fun this weekend: The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway remains closed for annual maintenance through October 6. Upcoming films in the Films in the Garden series: Monster House (2006) on 9/20, and ParaNorman (2012) on 9/27. More info
Calling All Cat Lovers
Cat Ladies (and cat lovers in general) are invited to A Masquerade! Cat Show on Saturday, September 14 from 10 am–4 pm at the Palm Springs Convention Center. Witness up to 225 pedigree and household pet cats strut their stuff, all under the auspices of the Cat Fanciers Association. Desert Paws Sanctuary will also be there with fantastic items for your furry friends and a raffle. Don’t miss the awards ceremony for the top cats—rest assured, they won’t be on the menu! Get tickets
International Day of Democracy
Sunday, September 15 is the International Day of Democracy. In 2007 the United Nations General Assembly resolved to observe this day on September 15 with the purpose of promoting and upholding the principles of democracy. Don’t forget: Tuesday, September 17 is National Voter Registration Day. Learn more about Democracy Day and the “Fractured” project, an in-depth examination of the state of American democracy, focusing on issues like election denialism, intimidation, and disinformation: More info
Gay Days Anaheim
Gay Days Anaheim takes place this weekend, from September 13–15. This is a “mix in” event where gay and straight people mingle at Disneyland Resort, wearing red shirts to identify each other. The schedule includes the Gay Days Welcome Center, PRIDE Meet Up, performances by Cheyenne Jackson and Jackie Cox, a scavenger hunt, themed lunches, and a group photo at Sleeping Beauty Castle. Highlights also feature The Mis-Match Game, Not so Disney Disney shows, a pool party, and Varla Jean Merman: The Errors Tour! See our event listing for a full detailed schedule of all the fun: Get tickets
How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying
Palm Canyon Theatre presents How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying, opening this Friday, September 13 and running through Sunday, September 22. This satirical musical comedy follows J. Pierpont Finch, an ambitious young man who climbs the corporate ladder by using questionable tactics and manipulating his colleagues. The show satirizes the cutthroat world of business and the lengths people will go to achieve success. Get tickets
The Purple Room: Jackie Beat & Sherry Vine, Jonathan Karrant
It’s another fabulous weekend at the Purple Room in Palm Springs: On Friday, September 13, legendary drag icons Jackie Beat and Sherry Vine will take the stage for their hilarious and outrageous show, “Battle of the Bitches: Ladies of the ’80s.” Known as the “Laurel & Hardy of drag,” these two will entertain you with their twisted song parodies and fierce competition, all set to the unforgettable hits of the 1980s. Then, on Saturday, September 14, the stage will be graced by the smooth and soulful sounds of Jonathan Karrant. Known for his rich voice and captivating performances, Jonathan will serenade you with a mix of jazz standards and contemporary classics. Both shows open for dinner at 6 pm, show at 8 pm. Get tickets
Maximo with Special Guest Michael Orland
Oscar’s Downtown Palm Springs presents the mesmerizing talent of Maximo Marcuso, along with special guest Michael Orland, on Friday, September 13. It’s Pavarotti meets Liberace on Broadway! Maximo’s powerhouse vocals span operatic arias, Broadway show tunes, Latin jazz, and contemporary music. Doors open at 5:30 pm for dinner, with the show starting at 7 pm. Get tickets
Speaking of Liberace, we are honored to have guest writer Bruce Fessier, whose article Four Decades Later, Liberace Gaining Elevated Status as Legendary Palm Springs Entertainer Who Sparked National Dialogue on AIDS, pays tribute to the iconic piano virtuoso with a focus on his Palm Springs connections and also mentions a couple of other upcoming Liberace tribute events in Palm Springs! Read more
MiChavela Fest – Mexican Independence Day Celebration
Saturday, September 14 will feature an unforgettable Mexican Independence Day Weekend at the Coachella Valley’s very own MiChavela Festival, now bigger and better at the Cathedral City Amphitheater. Celebrate with an incredible lineup of live entertainment, including performances by Aldo Trujillo, Banda Vallarta Show, Rubyana with her Selena Tribute, Grupo Mando, Mariachi Estrella, and DJ MarkuzArea. Enjoy the excitement of live Lucha Libre wrestling, carnival games for the whole family, and the return of the Classic Lowrider Car Show hosted by Big Red Chula. Indulge in a full bar and beer garden powered by Luchador Brewing Company, along with amazing Miche vendors, Mexican street food, and much more. Get tickets
A Journey to Desert Art Center’s 75th Anniversary
The Desert Art Center presents A Journey to Desert Art Center’s 75th Anniversary, a come & go open house event, on Sunday, September 15 from 10 am–4 pm at the historic former home of Agnes Pelton, the artist and woman who seeded the formation of the original Desert Art Center. View the painting that Pelton used to auction off for the seed money to get it started! This event is FREE and open to the public. More info
Open Rehearsals/Auditions for Modern Men Holiday Concert
Modern Men – Coachella Valley Men’s Chorus is on the lookout for talented voices to join them for their 11th season and holiday concert, “Home for the Holidays” with auditions to be held on Saturday, September 14 from 11 am–noon at United Methodist Church of Palm Springs. While tenors are especially needed, all vocal parts are welcome. If you have a passion for singing and want to be part of an amazing musical journey, come share your voice! More info
? Pickleball Fall 2024 Registration
Get ready for some pickleball fun with Pride Sports Palm Springs! Fall registration is open from September 10-15 at Demuth Park. Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to the game, join this vibrant community for friendly competition. Don’t miss out on this exciting season! For more details and to register, see the link in our event listing: More info
Greater Joshua Tree Art Expo
The Greater Joshua Tree Art Expo is taking place September 6–22 at the Joshua Tree Gallery of Contemporary Art, open daily from 2–6 pm. The Gallery is dedicated to showcasing diverse and thought-provoking exhibitions in a technologically advanced space, making world-class art accessible to all. More info
ALSO THIS WEEKEND
Friday, September 13
Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire Free Film Screening | 10 am at PS Public Library
All Valley Mayors and Tribal Chairpersons Luncheon | 10:30 am–1:30 pm at Renaissance Indian Wells Resort & Spa
Mean Girls (2024 Musical) Free Film Screening | 2 pm at PS Public Library
Country Dance Fridays: Ooh Aah Line Dance with Andrew Jimenez | 7 pm at Step by Step
Saturday, September 14
Palm Springs Certified Farmers’ Market | 8 am–1 pm indoors at the Palm Springs Pavilion
Sunday, September 15
Oscar’s Sunday T-Dance feat. DJ Galaxy | 3 pm
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!
“Say KGAY” Apparel
The best response to “Don’t Say Gay” is “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
LOOKING AHEAD
Tickets for Center Stage, Modernism Week, PS Film Fest
The LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert’s 2024 Center Stage Gala is on Saturday, October 19 at the Palm Springs Air Museum, and tickets are on sale now! Celebrate The Center and our vibrant LGBTQ+ community, honoring John McDonald & Rob Wright with the Legacy Award, With a special musical performance by American Idol Winner Abi Carter! Get tickets
Modernism Week, the annual festival that highlights midcentury modern architecture, art, interior and landscape design, and vintage culture, presents Modernism Week – October from Thursday, October 24–Sunday, October 27. Get tickets
The 2025 Palm Springs International Film Festival is set to illuminate the desert from January 2–13. The highly anticipated and glitzy Film Awards Ceremony is Friday, January 3, where Hollywood’s brightest stars will gather. Secure your spot now for this unforgettable experience! 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!
KGAY 106.5 & 92.1 FM
Don’t miss your chance to WIN 2 TICKETS to the Season 3 home opener of the Coachella Valley Firebirds, courtesy of KGAY 106.5 and 92.1 FM! Join us on Friday, October 11 at 7 pm at Acrisure Arena, as the Firebirds take on the Bakersfield Condors. All ticket packages are on sale now at cvfirebirds.com, including season tickets, flex tickets, group tickets, 9-game packs, and half-season tickets, with prices starting as low as $29. 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 DJ Modgirl airs every Sunday from 4–6 pm (right after the Retro Brunch). ! Listen to KGAY 106.5 online
This Saturday, September 14, DJ Modgirl will be spinning at Neon Oasis from 9 pm, and on Sunday, Sep 15, DJ Galaxy will be spinning at Oscar’s world famous Sunday T-Dance from 3 pm, and Modgirl will be at Chill Bar starting at 9 pm!
103.1 MeTV FM
103.1 MeTV FM celebrates two birthdays on Friday, September 13 with Timeless and Memorable music from Peter Cetera from Chicago & David Clayton-Thomas from Blood, Sweat and Tears. After 17 albums with Chicago, Peter went solo with 8 albums and turns 80 today and David turns 83! Listen to their music all day Friday! 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
WIN MOVIE TICKETS from 103.1 MeTV fm to Paul McCartney and Wings – One Hand Clapping as it comes to the big screen for the first time, 50 years after being filmed including an introduction by Paul McCartney recorded exclusively for movie theatre audiences. Limited screenings begin September 26. Enter to WIN on the 103.1 MeTV FM Contest Page!
- How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying
Sep 13–22 at Palm Canyon Theatre - Jackie Beat & Sherry Vine, Jonathan Karrant, and The Judy Show!
This weekend, Sep 13-15, at The Purple Room Supper Club - Greater Joshua Tree Art Expo
Sep 6–22 at the Joshua Tree Gallery of Contemporary Art - Business Expo & Taste of Palm Springs + Rock the City: Bruno Mars Tribute Band
Wed. Sep 18 from 5–9 pm at Indian Canyons Golf Resort - Cinema Diverse: The Palm Springs LGBTQ Film Festival
Sep 19–22 at the Palm Springs Cultural Center - Positively Aging Project – Legacy: Inspiring Stories of Living with HIV
Sat. Sep 21 from 9 am–3 pm at Mizell Center - Taylor Nation Tribute Band – Free Concert Series at Big Bear
Sat. & Sun. Sep 21 & 22 at 7 pm at Big Bear Lake - 8th Annual Aging Positively Conference
Sun. Sep 23 from 9 am–3:30 pm at Mizell Center - Cinema Diverse: Witchy Ways
Fri. Sep 27 at 6 pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center - 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 - Casual Concours 2024: Freeway of Love
Sat. Oct 12 from 9 am–2 pm at Indian Canyons Golf Resort - 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 - 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 - 36th Annual Palm Springs International Film Festival and Awards
Jan 2–13, 2025
- Four Decades Later, Liberace Gaining Elevated Status as Legendary Palm Springs Entertainer Who Sparked National Dialogue on AIDS
- Former Mayor Lisa Middleton Could Make History as California’s First Trans Lawmaker
- This Extreme Place: The Coachella Valley History Museum Looks to Expand as It Tells the Story of Our Unique Locale
- Was Abraham Lincoln Gay? Inside the Making of “Lover of Men: The Untold History of Abraham Lincoln”
- 12 Fan Favorites to Experience at Modernism Week — October
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 DJ Modgirl spinning the KGAY Sunday Tea Dance from 4–6 pm.