“I Think I Can!” was the optimistic incantation of The Little Engine That Could, a book I read as a child that has stuck with me all these years.
The story has been used to teach children the value of optimism and hard work since it’s release in 1930 and is still popular today.
Our country as a whole faces challenges we could never imagine. We’re that train that was going along just fine, and then our engine broke down. We suddenly have a huge mountain to climb: Civil rights being eroded. Gerrymandering. Revenge lawsuits and firings. Cites under siege.
And as the story goes, for various reasons, the other engines refuse because they think they are too important or they don’t believe they can. We Americans, like the other engines in the story, are asked to pull the train over that mountain — To get engaged. To protest. To vote. To financially support.
Do you think that your voice doesn’t matter; that someone else will pull your weight? It’s time to be your own “Little Engine That Could” and stay engaged.
I began to write this as an allegory for what our Palm Springs Pride organization is going through – fundraising shortfalls as they get ready to unveil the Pride Monument, raise the Arenas District Pride flag and put on a world-class pride celebration. But it’s much bigger than that. Our collective mountain is San Jacinto-sized.
Let’s hope that on the other side of all this — like the little engine — we’ll be able to say, “I thought I could, I thought I could.” Going backwards is not an option.
Brad Fuhr, your K-Gay Desert Guide
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Joshua Tree Music Festival
The 20th Fall Joshua Tree Music Festival returns October 9–12 to Joshua Tree Lake Campground with music, movement, and magic under the desert sky. JTMF features nonstop performances across three stages—from sunrise grooves to late-night headphone house—plus over 100 workshops, yoga sessions, and art installations. The festival’s Queer Salon offers a vibrant sanctuary for QTBIPOC and LGBTQIAA+ joy, connection, and empowerment—don’t miss Saturday’s Deep Glam! runway show celebrating queer brilliance and bold self-expression. With a genre-blending lineup including Diggin Dirt, Madame Gandhi, Yak Attack, and Farah Siraj, this family-friendly celebration invites you to dance, connect, and camp beneath the stars. Get tickets
RuPaul’s Drag Race Werq the World Tour
RuPaul’s Drag Race Werq the World Tour sashays into The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa on Saturday, October 11 at 8 pm with a dazzling new theme: the most exclusive awards show in drag herstory. Hosted by Sasha Velour as Lady Gaga and Madonna, this red carpet extravaganza features electrifying performances by Jimbo as Joan Rivers, Morphine Love Dion as Shakira, Jaida Essence Hall as Beyoncé, Roxxxy Andrews as Mariah Carey, and Derrick Barry as Britney Spears. With star-studded impersonations, fierce choreography, and high-glam spectacle, the queens deliver a night that celebrates drag as pure artistry and unapologetic joy. VIP meet and greet packages are available for fans who want to get up close before the show. Get tickets
Singing with the Desert Stars
Desert Ensemble Theatre presents Singing With the Desert Stars IV on Friday, October 10 from 6:30–10 pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center with a reception, performance, and after-party. This one-night-only gala marks the final chapter of DET’s 15-year legacy, pairing professional performers with local leaders in a spirited singing competition. Among the standout contestants is KGAY 106.5‘s own morning host John Taylor, stepping into the spotlight with charm and vocal flair, coached by Douglas Graham. Can’t attend? Help John Taylor meet his fundraising goal by donating online. The evening promises music, mentorship, and community celebration, all in support of DET’s scholarship program for aspiring theatre students. More info
DJ Galaxy’s Car Wash for a Cause
The community is invited to the fun-filled DJ Galaxy’s Annual Car Wash for a Cause, a special fundraiser to assist with the cost for the installation of the new Pride Flag Pole in the Downtown Palm Springs Arenas District. The event takes place on Sunday, October 12 from 11 am–2 pm off Arenas Road, between Chill Bar and Dick’s. Guests can enjoy a free car wash and barbecue, as this is a donation event where every dollar raised will be matched up to $25,000. The event will feature go-go boys from SOS Entertainment’s Desert Studs, the Desert Flaggers, and beats by DJ Galaxy! More info
Kool & The Gang
Kool & the Gang bring their legendary funk, soul, and R&B sound to the Special Events Center at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino on Friday, October 10 at 8 pm. With a career spanning more than five decades, the Hall of Fame inductees have earned two Grammy Awards, seven American Music Awards, and 31 gold and platinum albums. Their iconic hits—“Celebration,” “Cherish,” “Jungle Boogie,” “Summer Madness” and “Open Sesame”—have defined generations of dance floors and radio waves. Get tickets
National Coming Out Day
Saturday, October 11 marks National Coming Out Day, a powerful moment to honor authenticity, courage, and LGBTQ+ visibility. The It Gets Better project encourages community leaders to spark meaningful conversations using their free EduGuide activities. Whether exploring identity through symbols and self-care, addressing internalized stigma, or sharing stories of family support, these 45-minute lessons offer powerful tools to foster self-acceptance and build inclusive spaces where everyone can be their authentic self.
Kick Bullying to the Curb Wellness Festival and Celebrity Kickball Game
Boo2Bullying returns to Sunrise Park on Saturday, October 11 from 4–7 pm with its third annual “Kick Bullying to the Curb” festival, transforming National Coming Out Day into a celebration of inclusion and resilience. Guests can enjoy wellness booths, family activities, and free food before the 6 pm celebrity kickball showdown between Team Palm Springs and Team Coachella. With music by DJ Aaron Aldosirio and a National Anthem performance by Steve Knill, this community-powered event champions kindness, connection, and the power of showing up. More info
Wings of Hope Fundraiser Gala
The Palm Springs Air Museum sets the stage for Wings of Hope: A Glamorous Journey on Saturday, October 11 from 6–10 pm. This elegant fundraiser gala supports the Hanson House Foundation’s mission to provide compassionate lodging for families facing medical crises. Guests will enjoy live music, gourmet fare from Lulu, and a spirited auction—all in support of a vital community cause. Get tickets
A.M. Stream with Modgirl
Modgirl, the dynamic DJ behind KGAY’s Sunday T-Dance, brings her signature deep house and nu-disco grooves to Café La Jefa with A.M. Stream every Sunday from 10 am–1 pm starting this weekend, October 12. Spinning live from the Airstream, she transforms the patio into a morning dance escape—where caffeine meets rhythm and the beats never sleep. Wake up, tune in, and let Modgirl set the tone for your Sunday groove. More info
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
Palm Canyon Theatre invites audiences to step into a world of pure imagination with Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, running through Sunday, October 12. This whimsical musical follows Charlie Bucket’s golden-ticket adventure through a magical chocolate factory, bursting with colorful characters and beloved songs. Perfect for all ages, the production promises a sweet escape into a story that celebrates wonder, kindness, and the unexpected. Get tickets
The Life and Music of George Michael
The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa welcomes The Life and Music of George Michael on Friday, October 10 at 8 pm. This immersive concert-style tribute celebrates the pop legend’s journey from Wham! to solo stardom, featuring electrifying performances of beloved hits like “Faith” and “Careless Whisper.” With dazzling staging and heartfelt storytelling, the evening promises a powerful blend of nostalgia and musical brilliance. Get tickets
Firebirds Season Opener
The Coachella Valley Firebirds return to Acrisure Arena for their season opener on Friday, October 10 at 7 pm, facing off against the San Diego Gulls. As the team launches its fourth season in the desert, fans can expect high-energy hockey, hometown pride, and a packed arena buzzing with Firebirds Territory spirit. See the full October schedule for the Firebirds on our event page: More info
The Cottage
Broadway’s killer comedy The Cottage opens at Desert Theatreworks on Friday, October 10 and runs October 10–November 2. Set in the 1920s, this stylish and scandalous romp follows one woman’s daring decision to expose her affair—unleashing a whirlwind of secrets, betrayal, and absurd hilarity. With razor-sharp dialogue and unexpected twists, the production offers a wickedly funny take on love, marriage, and the messiness in between. Get tickets
Trick or Treat: Pet Adoptions and Donations
Streetbar and Hunters Palm Springs present Trick or Treat, a festive pet adoption and donation event benefiting the Palm Springs Animal Shelter. Held Saturday, October 11 from 10 am–2 pm, this Warren Jones event invites attendees to “treat” themselves to a cuddly new companion while supporting a great cause. Guests are encouraged to donate food and towels—no treats or toys, please. Come celebrate the season with costumed critters and help make a difference for local animals in need. More info
Get our Pride 2025 Visitor Map & Guide – FREE!
Check out our Pride 2025 Edition of the K-Gay Desert Guide Visitor Map & Guide —just released! 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!
Best of Desert Nominations
The Desert Sun’s Best of Desert Community’s Choice Awards Nomination Round runs now through Wednesday, October 22. This is your chance to show love for local favorites in the “Entertainment & Leisure” category—consider nominating DJ Galaxy, DJ Eric Ornelas, and Modgirl for DJ Event/Wedding; John Taylor, Patrick Evans, and Chris Shebel for Radio Personality/Show; and KGAY 106.5/92.1 and 103.1 MeTV FM for Radio Station – Local. Submit nominations daily and if you nominate in 25 or more categories, you’ll be entered to win a $250 gift card. Let’s celebrate the voices, beats, and stations that keep the desert dancing! Nominate here
Martha’s Village Spooktacular 5K/10K
The first-ever Spooktacular 5K/10K hosted by Martha’s Village & Kitchen kicks off at Ruth Hardy Park on Saturday, October 11 at 8 am. This Halloween-themed race invites runners, walkers, and families to don their best costumes and enjoy a scenic course through Palm Springs. Participants will be treated to music, local vendors, photo ops, and prizes for top costumes—all while supporting vital services for individuals experiencing homelessness through the Palm Springs Navigation Center. More info
Fresh Face at Rubine Red Gallery
Rubine Red Gallery launches its new season with Fresh Face, a vibrant exhibition running October 11–November 12. Featuring works from celebrated gallery artists and introducing newcomers Andy Julo and Don Fisher, the show bursts with bold cyanotypes, rich oil pastels, and fresh perspectives. Don’t miss the opening reception on Saturday, October 11 from 5–8 pm—where fall begins with a splash of color and creativity. More info
Vote KGAY and Local Favorites for Best of Coachella Valley!
CV Independent’s Best of Coachella Valley 2025–2026 has opened their Final Round Ballot—Thank you for the incredible support and strong showing in this year’s nominations—now’s the time to vote and help spotlight your favorites to win! Our contenders include: KGAY 106.5 & 92.1 and 103.1 MeTV FM in Life in the Valley > Best Radio Station, John Taylor, Patrick Evans, and Chris Shebel in Life in the Valley > Best Local Radio Personality, and our dynamic DJ trio—DJ Galaxy, DJ Eric Ornelas, and Modgirl—in Arts > Best Local DJ. Nominations will be accepted through Sunday, October 29. Cast your vote today!
ALSO THIS WEEKEND
Thursday–Sunday, October 9–12
Western Xposure Fall Bear Week | CCBC Resort
Friday, October 10
Drag Bingo/Trivia Nights (alternating) | 4:30–7 pm at Arrive Hotel
Food Truck Fridays | 5–10 pm in Downtown Indio
Cirque Mechanics: Tilt! | 7 pm at the McCallum Theatre
Saturday, October 11
Solar Sessions at Royal Sun Palm Springs | 12–6 pm
The Lofts Art Walk | 4–7 pm
18th Annual Concert for Autism Lead-Up Event | 7:30–10 pm at Hood Bar & Pizza
2025 Architectural Preservation Awards | 6–10 pm at the Annenberg Theater
Jane Monheit | 6 pm dinner, 8 pm show at The Purple Room
Indio Second Saturdays | 7 pm in Downtown Indio
Country Dance Saturdays: Beginner Two-Step | 7 pm at Step by Step
Sunday, October 12
Stephan Moccio | 3 pm at The McCallum Theatre
Elvis: The Early Years with Scot Bruce | 5 pm dinner, 7 pm show at The Purple Room
LOOKING AHEAD
Tramway Reopens Monday
The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway reopens Monday, October 13 following its annual maintenance closure, with trams running every 30 minutes from 10 am–8 pm and the last tram down at 9:30 pm. Recent upgrades include carriage rebuilding, rope replacement, and system testing—ensuring a smoother, safer ride to the top. Visitors can once again enjoy breathtaking views and crisp mountain air as the Tramway welcomes guests back for another season of scenic adventure!
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!
- Joshua Tree Music Festival
Thu.–Sun. Oct 9–12 at Joshua Tree Lake Campground - RuPaul’s Werq the World Tour 2025
Sat. Oct 11 at 8 pm at The Show - Singing with the Desert Stars
Fri. Oct 10 at 6 pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center - DJ Galaxy’s Car Wash for a Cause (Supporting Palm Springs Pride Flag Pole)
Sun. Oct 12 from 11 am–2 pm in the Arenas District - Kool & The Gang
Fri. Oct 10 at 8 pm at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino - The Cottage: Broadway’s Killer Comedy
Oct 10–Nov 2 at Desert Theatreworks - Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
Oct 3–12 at Palm Canyon Theatre - Wings of Hope: A Glamorous Journey – Hanson House Fundraiser
Sat. Oct 11 from 6–11 pm at Palm Springs Air Museum - The Pride Honors Awards
Thu. Oct 16 from 5:30–7:30 pm at the Hilton Palm Springs - Modernism Week – October
Oct 16–19 – Tickets on Sale Aug 1 - Center Stage Gala 2025
Fri. Oct 17 from 5:30–9 pm at the Palm Springs Air Museum - The Inheritance – Part 2, presented by THE BENT
Oct 17–Nov 2 at the Palm Springs Cultural Center - House Party PS: Pride in Paradise
Sat. Oct 18 at 6 pm at a private estate - Miss Coco Peru – Fucq This Sh!t
Sat. Oct 18 at 7 pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center - 2025 IGLTA Global Convention (LGBTQ+ Travel Association)
Tue.–Sat. Oct 21–25 - Wet & Wild Party Benefiting Police & Fire
Thu. Oct 23 from 5–7 pm at Desert Hand Car Wash - IGLTA Voyage: The Velvet Palm
Thu. Oct 23 from 6:30–9 pm at the Dinah Shore Estate - Flag Raising Block Party
Fri. Oct 24 from 5–10 pm in the Arenas District - The Addams Family – A New Musical Comedy
Fri.–Sun. Oct 24–26 at the Rancho Mirage Amphitheater - Palm Springs Pride Equality Walk
Sat. Oct 25 at 8 am - Edie: Las Vegas Showgirl Unleashed
Sat. Oct 25 at the Palm Springs Cultural Center - Palm Springs Leather Pride 2025 – Gods of Leather
Oct 30–Nov 2 at Hotel Zoso, Tool Shed, CCBC, Hunters - UNBRIDLED SPIRIT: Celebrating 35 Years of Leather in Palm Springs
Thu.–Sun. Oct 30–Nov 2 at Hotel Zoso - Halloween on Arenas – 2 Days!
Fri. & Sat., Oct 31 & Nov 1 - 4th Annual Pride on the Page Book Festival
Sat. Nov 1 at the Palm Springs Cultural Center - Sasha Velour: The Big Reveal Live Show
Wed. Nov 5 at 7 pm at the McCallum Theatre - Palm Springs Pride 2025: “Be Heard”
Thu.–Sun. Nov 6–9 - The Official Palm Springs Pride Pool Party
Sat. Nov 8 from 11 am–5 pm at Palm Springs Surf Club - HRC Palm Springs Garden Party
Sat. Nov 8 from 2–4:30 pm at a private estate - Palm Springs Pride Parade
Sun. Nov 9 at 10 am in downtown Palm Springs - Protect the Dolls Brunch
Sun. Nov 9 from 12–2 pm at The 4707 - Mizell Center Presents Cheyenne Jackson Live in Concert
Wed. Nov 12 at 7 pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center - Kenny G. at the Spotlight Showroom
Sat. Nov 15 at 8 pm at Spotlight 29 Casino - David Bowie Tribute : David Brighton’s Space Oddity Concert
Sat. Dec 6 at 7:30 pm at The Riviera Resort & Spa - Palm Springs International Film Festival
Jan 2–13, 2026 – Passes on Sale Now - Palm Springs International Film Awards
Sat. Jan 3, 2026 – Tickets on Sale Now
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SOS Entertainers bring the party and excitement! Use their services to host the ultimate celebration: they offer dancers, greeters, bartenders and can provide full catering for your next big party. Find them online at sosentertainers.com or in Gay Desert Guide! SOS Entertainers is a complete entertainment ecosystem designed to inspire, engage, and create lasting memories. Learn more
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
This weekend: Modgirl hits The Red Barn in Palm Desert on Friday, October 10 at 8 pm, then spins her new residency, A.M. Stream, on Sunday, October 12 from 10 am–1 pm at Café La Jefa in Palm Springs. Catch DJ Galaxy spinning high-energy beats at Sunday’s Car Wash for a Cause, October 12 from 11 am–2 pm, fueling the fun and fundraising for Palm Springs’ new Pride Flag Pole.
To listen to KGAY Palm Springs via Alexa, say “Alexa ENABLE K. Gay Palm Springs SKILL” (include “SKILL”) or manually enable it in the Alexa app or at Amazon. Once enabled, access the station by saying “Alexa, OPEN,” “LAUNCH,” or “PLAY K. Gay Palm Springs.” You can also make special requests, such as birthday shoutouts or song dedications! Happy streaming! Learn more
103.1 MeTV FM
This weekend on 103.1 MeTV FM: Steve Goddard will bring you stories and music from Johnny Rivers on Goddard’s Gold this Sunday morning at 9 am, brought to you by The Skylark Bar at the Skylark hotel. Also: 103.1 MeTV FM will be celebrating Paul Simon’s 84th Birthday on Monday with his Timeless and Memorable music all day long, brought to you by Game Day Men’s Health. 103.1 MeTV FM plays a Timeless and Memorable variety of the ’60s, ’70s, and ’80s with a touch of the ’50s! Listen in your car, at work, at home or around the world, online at 1031metvfm.com or tell Alexa, “Open 103.1 MeTV FM.”
- The Center Launches LGBTQ+ Quality of Life Survey for Coachella Valley Residents
- LGBTQ History Month in October: Why 2025 Makes Learning Queer History Essential
- Palm Springs Arenas District Bars Unite to Fund Pride with ‘Skip the Line’ Pass
- 33 Essential Queer Movies to Watch During LGBTQ+ History Month Streaming Now
- Danny Kopelson: Palm Springs Theater Icon & HIV/AIDS Advocate
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 iHeart Radio with Alexa or Siri by saying “Play K-GAY 106 5 .” 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 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.