Gay Desert Guide Week of Oct 27 2025
Brad Fuhr

Read a good book lately? That anachronistic term was something that we used to ask as common conversation-starter before the internet turned us into scrolling zombies.

This weekend, book reading takes center stage as Pride on the Page happens in Palm Springs. Thanks to a very LGBTQ-friendly public library, we have events like Drag Queen story hours and Pride on the Page.

Our library is undergoing a transformation thanks to our LGBTQ-heavy Palm Springs Public Library Foundation. The Palm Springs Public Library Foundation is raising $7M in community contributions through its “A New Chapter” Capital Campaign. The city and others are also funding the library renovation. It seems we gays seem to do everything, including write books.

Chris Coffer, whom you may remember from Glee fame, is now a NYT bestselling author and has published a new young adult novel, “Roswell Johnson Saves the Galaxy”. While that event is ticketed, the day’s program is free from 10 am – 5 pm this Saturday.

One of Saturday’s authors is a man I worked with in LGBTQ media, David Stern. He was the publisher of Frontiers Magazine and IN Los Angeles for a long stretch. His memoir about running away from home as a teen and moving to LA is getting great reviews, and my copy is on order (from my now defunct Amazon account).

We are not only a hotbed for LGBTQ+ authors, but also for publishing. Cathedral City is home to Rattling Good Yarns led by Ian Henzel and St-Sukie de la Croix, who I knew from Chicago “gay” media. The two formed the company in 2018.

So I hope you’ll find some non-screen time to take in the festival and read a good book this Fall!

Brad Fuhr, your K-Gay Desert Guide

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WED: Susannah B and The Lowkeys

Susannah B

Susannah B and The Lowkeys take the stage at The Bent Theater inside the Palm Springs Cultural Center on Wednesday, October 29 at 7 pm for a powerful evening of blues-infused rock and soul. With a voice that moves from sultry to raw, Susannah B delivers heartfelt songs that honor identity, emotion, and storytelling. This featured concert also supports the creation of a scholarship for LGBTQ+ plays and playwrights through the Palm Springs Young Playwrights Festival. Get tickets


WED: DBA Social Media and AI Workshop

DBA

Desert Business Association (DBA) members are invited to sharpen their digital edge at the Social Media and AI Workshop on Wednesday, October 29 from 8:30–11 am at the Desert Business Association. Led by the award-winning team at JNS Next, this hands-on session covers content strategy, engagement metrics, and smart use of AI tools to elevate your brand voice and boost visibility. More info


WED: Alzheimers Coachella Valley Open House

ACV Open House

Alzheimers Coachella Valley (ACV) welcomes all supporters to its Open House: A Celebration of Care on Wednesday, October 29 from 5:30–8:30 pm. Hosted by Patrick Evans, the evening honors the 4th Annual Chuck Olsen Caregiver Award recipient, Edwina Dirk, RN, BSN. Those who have RSVP’d will enjoy live music by Phillip Pollerana, complimentary valet parking, and light refreshments at the Berger Foundation Charitable Center. The event is a crucial fundraiser, helping ACV keep its essential support programs free for Valley families navigating life with dementia. More info

WED: Unbridled Spirit Opening Reception

LGBTQ Archives Unbridled Spirit

The LGBTQ+ History & Archives of the Desert presents Unbridled Spirit: Celebrating 35 Years of Leather in Palm Springs, an exhibition exploring the significant impact of the leather community on the Coachella Valley. Curated by Mike Király, the exhibit runs at Hotel Zoso throughout Leather Pride weekend. Admission is free, with an Opening Reception on Wednesday, October 29 from 5:30–7:30 pm, then viewing hours from 11 am–8 pm Thursday through Saturday, and 11 am–3 pm on Sunday. Additionally, guests are invited to a special program, Leather Women: Celebrating Our Sexuality, on Thursday, October 30 at 6:30 pm. More info


THU–SUN: Palm Springs Leather Pride 2025

Leather Pride 2025 Gods of Leather

Palm Springs Leather Pride 2025: Gods of Leather runs from Thursday–Sunday, October 30–November 2 with four days of bold gear, global camaraderie, and unapologetic celebration. From pool parties at CCBC and the infamous Dark Alley Marketplace to speaker series, cigar socials, and the Mr. Palm Springs Leather contest, this all-access weekend blends kink, community, and connection. Hosted at Hotel Zoso and venues across Palm Springs, it’s the ultimate gathering for leather lovers, fetish enthusiasts, and curious newcomers alike. Come for the gear—stay for the brotherhood. Check out our event listing for a detailed rundown of all the Leather Pride events: Get tickets


THU–SUN: International Imperial Court System 60th Anniversary

60th Anniversary Imperial Court

Join Courtiers from across North America in Palm Springs to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee 60th Anniversary of the International Imperial Court System (IICS), one of the world’s oldest and largest LGBTQ+ charitable organizations. The four-day celebration at the Renaissance Palm Springs Hotel runs from Thursday–Sunday, October 30–November 2. The weekend is packed with events, including the Welcome Maple Leaf Mixer, the Denim & Diamonds night, the grand 60th Anniversary Gala, and the Crowning of King Father II of the Americas, concluding with a Sunday Poolside Brunch. More info


THU: Witch Please – A Halloween Comedy & Music Show

Witch please event banner

Palm Springs Cultural Center conjures up a wickedly funny night with “Witch Please” on Thursday, October 30 from 7–8:30 pm. Featuring Billy L’Amour, Deven Green, and Handsome Ned, this Halloween comedy and music show promises outrageous parody songs, frightful laughs, and a costume contest with prizes. Come dressed to kill and prepare for a ghoulishly good time. Get tickets


THU: Bridesmaids Contest at Chill Bar

Bridesmaid Contest

Chill Bar Palm Springs rolls out the pink carpet on Thursday, October 30 from 5–7 pm for the Bridesmaid Contest: Palm Springs Edition, a pre-Halloween bash celebrating taffeta, tears, and total glam. With Bridesmaids director Paul Feig as guest judge, contestants are invited to flaunt their best (or worst) bridal party looks for a chance at prizes and unforgettable moments. All gender expressions are welcome at this inclusive, laugh-filled event—so gather your crew and get ready to slay. More info


FRI & SAT: Halloween on Arenas

Halloween Arenas 2025 Masked Party

Get ready for two nights of dance parties during Halloween on Arenas in the Arenas District! The celebration kicks off with Dance Party #1, “The Masked Party,” on Friday, October 31 from 4–10 pm, featuring entertainment from Dev, Meaty Beats by Juan, DJ Modgirl, and DJ Jeffree. The excitement continues with Dance Party #2, “The Unmasking: Leather Fetish Fantasy,” on Saturday, November 1 from 4–10 pm, with special performances by DJ Luciana and DJ Hector Fonseca. Both nights offer free admission with a suggested $10 donation to support LGBTQ+ charities, and feature a Halloween costume contest. More info


FRI-SUN: Agua Caliente Casinos Celebrate Halloween

Halloween Destination Agua Caliente 2025

Agua Caliente Casinos are pulling out all the stops for Halloween weekend, October 31–November 2! Head to Cathedral City for the After Dark Halloween Bash on Friday at 8 pm featuring Empire Records and DJ Ebony, plus a costume contest with $1,800 in cash prizes. Sip spooky $10 cocktails all weekend, catch Nacho Bustillos live on Saturday, and explore more thrills at Rancho Mirage with Mammoth featuring Myles Kennedy on Friday and Lance Burton: Master Magician and Friends on Saturday. More info


THU-SUN: Priscilla, Queen of the Desert

Priscilla PCT 2025

Palm Canyon Theatre rolls out the glittery road trip adventure with Priscilla Queen of the Desert, running October 24–November 16. This high-energy musical follows three drag queens across the Australian outback, packed with dazzling costumes, iconic pop anthems, and a heartfelt celebration of identity, friendship, and fabulousness. Get tickets


THU–SUN: The Inheritance – Part 2

The inheritance pt2

The Bent Theatre Company presents The Inheritance – Part 2 at the Palm Springs Cultural Center/Camelot Theatre, running through Sunday, November 2. Inspired by E.M. Forster’s Howards End, this sweeping drama explores three generations of gay men as they navigate survival, identity, and the meaning of home. Whether or not you saw Part One, audiences will be seamlessly caught up before diving into this emotional journey of connection, reckoning, and renewal. Adult content; nudity included. Get tickets


THU–SUN: The Cottage

The Cottage

Broadway’s killer comedy The Cottage runs through Sunday, 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


Deadline FRIDAY: LGBTQ+ Quality of Life Survey

Quality of Life Survey The Center

The LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert invites Coachella Valley residents to take part in its new LGBTQ+ Quality of Life Survey, designed to gather insights that will shape future programs, services, and advocacy efforts. By sharing lived experiences, participants help strengthen community support and ensure that local voices are heard and valued. Please take the 30-minute survey by Friday, October 31.


Visitor Map & Guide Pride 2025 Crop 2

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!


ALSO THIS WEEK

Monday, October 27
Monday Night Bingo with Bella da Ball | 7–9 pm at the Ace Hotel
Hot Spot Trivia with Deven & Ned | 7–8:30 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs

Tuesday, October 28
Rancho Mirage State of the City
| 11:30 am–1:30 pm at Omni Rancho Las Palmas

Wednesday, October 29
Hot Spot Bingo with Deven & Ned | 7–8:30 pm at Agua Caliente Cathedral City
The Dirty Show 4.0 – On All Fours Halloween Spook-tacular! | 7 pm at Dietlart Gallery

Thursday, October 30
Mizell Kitchen Series: Sweet Potato Pie-Making | 3–5 pm at Mizell Center
Wine & Design, benefiting Parkinson’s Resource Org. | 5:30–7:30 at The Fireplace
Michael Childers’ Hollywood Dine & Dish IV
| 6 pm at a Private Residence
Coachella Valley Firebirds vs. San Diego Gulls | 6:30 pm at Acrisure Arena
The Totally Ridiculous Gameshow Halloween Spook-tacular! | 7 pm at Dietlart Gallery
Carousel Live Retro Music | 7–8:30 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs
VillageFest Street Fair – Haunted Circus Theme
| 6–10 pm in Downtown Palm Springs

Friday, October 31
BOO! Halloween Carnival & Haunted House | 4–7 pm at James O. Jessie Center
Drag Bingo/Trivia Nights (alternating) | 4:30–7 pm at Arrive Hotel
Food Truck Fridays | 5–10 pm in Downtown Indio
Deborah Silver w/special guest Sam Harris | 6–9:30 pm at The Purple Room Supper Club

Saturday, November 1
Living Healthy Expo | 9 am–2 pm at Cathedral City Amphitheater
Deborah Silver w/special guest Sam Harris | 6–9:30 pm at The Purple Room Supper Club
Dance Ranch: Hello Stranger Line Dance with Andrew Jimenez | 7 pm at Step by Step
Lance Burton Master Magician and Friends
| 8 pm at The Show

Sunday, November 2
A.M. Stream with Modgirl | 9 am–12 pm (special time this week) at Cafe La Jefa
The Judy Show! | 5–8:30 pm at The Purple Room Supper Club



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THIS WEEKEND

Pride on the Page Book Festival

Pride on the Page 4th Annual Chris Colfer

Pride on the Page returns to the Palm Springs Cultural Center on Saturday, November 1 for a full day of literary celebration featuring LGBTQIA+ authors, poets, and publishers. From 10 am through 4:45 pm, panels and readings will explore queer fiction, oral histories, poetry, and the publishing process. Special guest Chris Colfer will appear in conversation about his celebrated work and advocacy. Attendees can also enjoy book signings, local author showcases, and updates on the Palm Springs Public Library renovation. The event takes place throughout the Camelot Theatre and outdoor tent, with storytelling, connection, and community pride. Get tickets


KGAY Out and About at Nola at Escena

Nola
John Taylor

KGAY goes Out & About with John Taylor heading to Escena Golf Club on Sunday, November 2 from 11 am–1 pm for a featured spotlight on Nola at Escena. This modern desert enclave showcases luxury single-story homes with sleek architecture, open-concept layouts, and private pools—all set within a vibrant golf course community. Attendees can explore the lifestyle, meet the team, and enjoy the scenic surroundings while tuning in to live coverage. More info


Scoop Palm Springs Ice Cream Festival

Scoop Palm Springs Ice Cream Festival

Get ready for the sweetest Sunday in the desert—Scoop Palm Springs Ice Cream Festival debuts November 2 from 12–4 pm at Downtown Park. Sample creamy creations from top local vendors, groove to music from Modgirl, and enjoy family-friendly fun including an interactive kids art exhibit. Your $35 ticket gets you ten tasty samples, and every scoop supports the Palm Springs LGBTQ Center’s Community Food Bank. Come for the flavor, stay for the impact. More info


Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical

November at the McCallum 2025

Kick off the holiday season with Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical at the McCallum Theatre, Sunday, November 2 at 1 pm and 6 pm and Monday, November 3 at 7 pm. This Broadway hit brings Whoville to life with dazzling sets, beloved songs like “You’re A Mean One Mr. Grinch,” and a heartwarming tale narrated by Max the Dog. Perfect for all ages, it’s a festive celebration of joy, mischief, and the true spirit of Christmas. Get tickets


Opera Under the Stars

Opera Under Stars

Palm Springs Opera Guild joins The Coachella Valley Symphony for a magical evening of Opera Under the Stars on Saturday, November 1 from 6–8 pm. Held at the Rancho Mirage Amphitheater, this open-air concert features four professional opera singers backed by the full symphony, creating a stirring night of music beneath the desert sky. Proceeds benefit both organizations. More info


Palm Springs Vintage Market

Palm Springs Vintage Market

The Palm Springs Vintage Market returns Sunday, November 2 from 7 am–2 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs. This open-air market is a monthly favorite from October through May, offering a curated mix of retro treasures, antiques, and reclaimed finds. With friendly vendors, a welcoming community vibe, and a focus on authentic Mid Century style, it’s the perfect place to browse, connect, and “capture vintage with a view.” More info


Hansel and Gretel

Hansel and Gretel

Palm Canyon Theatre welcomes audiences to a charming, family-friendly adaptation of Hansel and Gretel, running this Saturday–Monday, November 1–3. Presented by Doug Nagel and Coachella Valley Classical Voices, this abridged version of Humperdinck’s opera blends classic storytelling with a touch of Spanish flair, making it a magical experience for all ages. Get tickets

Featured Events
On the Air

KGAY 106.5 & 92.1 FM

CVI Best of Awards 2023

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 spins a double-header of sets at Halloween on Arenas on Friday, October 31: Catch her on the Mainstage from 6–8:30 pm, then head to the DJ Stage from 9–10 pm. Then on Sunday, November 2, it’s a morning set of A.M. Stream at Café La Jefa at 9 am, followed by an afternoon groove at the Scoop Palm Springs festival at 1 pm.


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

KMEE Alexa MeTV 1031 300x250

103.1 MeTV FM plays a Timeless and Memorable variety of the ’60s, ’70s, and ’80s with a touch of the ’50s! Rise and Shine weekday mornings with a Timeless and Memorable variety of songs you know and love, and get your weather from Jerry Steffen at NBC Palm Springs. Listen in your car, at work, at home or around the world, online at 1031metvfm.com or tell Alexa, “Open 103.1 MeTV FM.”


Kenny G

MeTV FM is giving listeners a chance to WIN TICKETS to Kenny G Live at the Spotlight Showroom on Saturday, November 15 at 8 pm. With over 75 million albums sold and a signature sound that’s defined instrumental music for decades, Kenny G’s latest project, Innocence, offers a soothing blend of lullabies and timeless melodies. From beloved classics like “Over the Rainbow” to serene originals, this concert promises an evening of emotional depth and musical elegance. Enter to WIN on the MeTV FM Contest Page

Bookmarks
  1. Palm Springs Unveils Pride Monument Amid LGBTQ+ Rights Challenges
  2. Halloween Palm Springs Returns with Leather, Music, and Magic
  3. Palm Springs Pride 2025 Festival Spotlights LGBTQ+ Artists
  4. Hiking with T: Explore the Beauty and History of Willis Palms Oasis Trail
  5. The Bent’s Inheritance Part Two Delivers Powerful Theater

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.

KGAY 106.5 & 92.1 Palm Springs Radio

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.