Heated Rivalry has taken the world by storm. And now, a little-known app called “Quinn” has capitalized on the success with Ember & Ice. The first audio-only episode on Dec. 30th crashed their servers under the weight of adoring fans wanting in on a little hockey player fantasy.
The relationship between Ember & Ice and Heated Rivalry is driven by the casting of Hudson Williams and Connor Storrie, who star in both projects. While they are separate stories, Ember & Ice is widely viewed by fans as a “spiritual successor” and a way to see the actors reunite. (Until season 2)
I’m intrigued as this spinoff confirms the power of the audio medium. As a “radio guy”, I’ve experienced the power of the non-visual medium all my life. I could picture the Hindenburg zeppelin crashing, the aliens aiming their death rays on War of the Worlds and more recently the scenes described in the podcast accompanying Only Murders in the Building.
That Hulu series is perhaps the most famous example of how audio is used to “paint pictures.” Its entire plot revolves around the creation of a true-crime podcast, making it a masterclass in how sound shapes a narrative. And like Ember & Ice, Only Murders in the Building Official Podcast uses sound effects brilliantly.
Our KGAY/Sunny 106.5 team creates some brilliant advertising using audio. While we have to be more forward to communicate a concept or sell a product in 30 or 60 seconds, we don’t just throw some words together with the hackneyed phrase “for all your ___ needs”.
No, we paint a picture of what Club 541 might be like inside! Like Heated Rivalry, we’re giving straight people a look at our world. But it’s much more than that. I don’t have the space to go into it here, but a New York Times op-ed piece sums it up well. (Paywall).
Jim Downs authored the piece “Heated Rivalry’ Is Gay Culture’s Next Frontier” and observes, “There are queer politicians and lawyers, Olympians and celebrities. But representation is not the same thing as intimacy. We still need more stories about us, our relationships, our romances, our desires.”
Non-sequitor – We’re hosting Pride Night with the Coachella Valley Firebirds on Saturday night. Are there any Shane and Ilya’s in the AHL???
Brad Fuhr, your K-Gay Desert Guide
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THRU SUN: Palm Springs International Film Festival
The Palm Springs International Film Festival continues through Monday, January 12, transforming the city into a global showcase for cinema with 169 films from more than 70 countries, including 53 premieres and 44 International Feature Film Oscar submissions. The festival offers audiences an extraordinary range of storytelling across multiple venues, including the newly added Plaza Theatre. For those wishing to attend screenings, the festival provides a variety of options, from individual tickets to multi‑film passes, allowing attendees to curate their own experience. Get tickets
MON: DBA New Year Celebration
The Desert Business Association invites the community to ring in the new year at the DBA New Year Celebration on Monday, January 5 from 5:30–8 pm at Boozehounds Palm Springs. This festive gathering brings together LGBTQ and Allied businesses for an evening of connection, collaboration, and renewed energy, featuring delicious Boozehounds bites, live keyboard music, and meaningful networking with local leaders and community members. As the region’s only LGBTQ chamber of commerce, the DBA sets the stage for a year of growth, creativity, and shared success, making this celebration the perfect way to welcome everything 2026 will bring. More info
MON: Modern Men Chorus Auditions
Modern Men – Coachella Valley Men’s Chorus invites singers of all experience levels to audition for a landmark season honoring the final concert of Artistic Director Dr. Stan Hill. This is a rare opportunity to join a welcoming musical community and help create a powerful tribute to an extraordinary legacy. Auditions will be held on Monday, January 5 at 8:30 pm and Saturday, January 10 at 11 am, offering prospective members a supportive, one‑on‑one experience with Dr. Hill. Those interested can complete the audition form to schedule a time and take the first step toward becoming part of this historic performance. More info
TUE: What You Should Know about Elder Abuse
The Positive Life Series welcomes the community to an important educational program, What You Should Know About Elder Abuse, presented by the Palm Springs Police Department on Tuesday, January 6 from 6–7 pm at the Mizell Center. This session offers clear, practical guidance on recognizing, preventing, and responding to elder abuse, empowering attendees with knowledge that supports safety and wellbeing for older adults. More info
WED: Bee Gees Forever Rock the Park
Rock the Park brings its next high‑energy tribute night to Downtown Park in Palm Springs on Wednesday, January 7 from 7–9 pm, featuring Bee Gees Forever and their pitch‑perfect celebration of the legendary trio’s greatest hits. This free outdoor concert is part of the monthly series running through May, offering a different top‑tier tribute act on the first Wednesday of each month. After dancing along to the Bee Gees, audiences can look forward to upcoming performances honoring artists like Bruno Mars, Adele, Barbra Streisand and the Doobie Brothers. More info
WED: Ernesto Ramirez Fine Art Gallery – Grand Opening
Ernesto Ramirez Fine Art Gallery marks its debut with a grand opening on Wednesday, January 7 from 5–7 pm in the Back Street Art District. The celebration introduces the gallery’s contemporary vision with featured works by David Farnsworth and David Gilmore, blending refined artistry with the bold, expressive flair that defines Ramirez’s creative world. It’s an inviting opportunity for the community to welcome a new voice in the Palm Springs arts scene. More info
This Week at the McCallum Theatre
The McCallum Theatre offers a week of music, magic and masterful performance. Tuesday and Wednesday, January 6 & 7 bring Neil Berg’s The 60’s, a high‑energy tribute to the era that reshaped rock and roll, filled with iconic songs and stories from the artists who defined a generation. On Thursday, January 8 at 7 pm, The Magic of Jen Kramer dazzles with award‑winning sleight‑of‑hand and irresistible charm. Saturday, January 10 welcomes Tony Award winner Christine Ebersole, whose celebrated stage and screen career promises an evening of exceptional vocal artistry. The week concludes on Sunday, January 11 with Chopin – The Romantic, a Keyboard Conversations program featuring Jeffrey Siegel’s insightful commentary and expressive performances of beloved piano works. Get tickets
THU: Hair Transplant Consultation
Contour Dermatology invites the community to start the new year with renewed confidence at its Hair Transplant Consultation Day on Thursday, January 8 from 9 am–3 pm. Guests can meet with the practice’s experienced team, receive personalized recommendations, and learn about advanced techniques that create natural‑looking results. Attendees will also have the opportunity to receive an estimate on the number of grafts needed and take advantage of newly lowered pricing. More info
FRI: One Vision of Queen feat. Marc Martel
One Vision of Queen featuring Marc Martel brings an stunning tribute to The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa on Friday, January 9 at 8 pm. Renowned for his astonishing vocal likeness to Freddie Mercury, Martel leads a powerhouse performance packed with Queen’s most iconic anthems, delivering the soaring energy, precision and showmanship that fans adore. Get tickets
A Bright New Dawn on Sunny 106.5
Say hello to Sunny 106.5, the Coachella Valley’s fresh new radio station. Sunny 106.5 is your go-to for feel-good favorites from the ’90s, 2000s, and more—music so bright, you gotta wear shades. From Mariah Carey and Matchbox Twenty to Adele, Coldplay, Katy Perry, Maroon 5, and hundreds of other favorites, it’s the perfect soundtrack for your day. More than just great music, Sunny 106.5 keeps you connected to the community with local updates and weekday weather from Patrick Evans of News Channel 3, plus friendly, familiar voices throughout the day. Sunny 106.5 is bright music and good vibes for Greater Palm Springs! Learn more
KGAY is Now at 103.1
Meanwhile, KGAY Radio rings in the New Year with a major upgrade, moving to a stronger, farther‑reaching signal at 103.1 FM as it enters its eighth year serving Palm Springs, the Coachella Valley and the LGBTQ+ community by expanding coverage and adding an HD digital signal for clearer, more reliable listening. Streaming also continues worldwide at KGAYPalmSprings.com.
ALSO THIS WEEK
Monday, January 5
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
Wednesday, January 7
Hot Spot Bingo with Deven & Ned | 7–8:30 pm at Agua Caliente Cathedral City
Thursday, January 8
VillageFest Street Fair | 6–10 pm in Downtown Palm Springs
Carousel Live Retro Music | 7–8:30 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs
Cabaret L’Amour | 7 pm at The Velvet Rope Hotel
Friday, January 9
Drag Bingo/Trivia Nights (alternating) | 4:30–7 pm at Arrive Hotel
Food Truck Fridays | 5–10 pm in Downtown Indio
Debby Holiday Simply the Best: A Tribute to Tina Turner & Friends | 6–9:30 at The Purple Room
Saturday, January 10
Auditions for Modern Men Chorus | 11–12 am at UMCPS Fellowship Hall
Debby Holiday Simply the Best: A Tribute to Tina Turner & Friends | 6–9:30 at The Purple Room
Dance Ranch: Beginner East Coast Swing with Lise Baadh | 7 pm at Step by Step
Sunday, January 11
A.M. Stream with Modgirl | 10 am–1 pm at Café la Jefa
The Judy Show! | 5–8:30 pm at The Purple Room
Get our Latest Visitor Map & Guide – FREE!
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!
THIS WEEKEND
CV Firebirds Pride Night
Acrisure Arena is the site of community and celebration on the ice with Firebirds Pride Night on Saturday, January 10 from 6–9 pm. This matchup against the Henderson Silver Knights highlights inclusivity and LGBTQIA+ pride with special performances, youth‑focused initiatives and a game‑worn jersey auction benefiting Palm Springs Pride youth services programs. It’s a high‑energy evening that blends hockey, entertainment and meaningful local impact, making it one of the season’s standout events. More info
Thrive: A Path to Well-Being
The L-Fund presents its second annual THRIVE: A Path to Well‑Being on Saturday, January 10 from 10 am–3 pm at the Annenberg Center for Health Sciences at Eisenhower Medical Center, offering a full day dedicated to health and wellness for cis, trans and queer‑identifying lesbians in the greater Coachella Valley. This expanded edition features guest speakers on women’s health, a wide range of exhibitors and interactive breakout sessions, all created in collaboration with Eisenhower Health. With last year’s event drawing an enthusiastic crowd, THRIVE returns with even more opportunities for learning, connection and community support. More info
A Piece of Thread at the 10-Minute Play Festival
A Piece of Thread will be performed at Revolution Stage Company’s 10‑minute Play Festival, with Group Two performing Saturday, January 10 from 7:30–9 pm and Sunday, January 11 at 2 pm. Written by Ronni Sanlo, this moving work follows a young girl lost at Auschwitz who finds a way to ensure her family’s story is not forgotten. The festival showcases several short plays by Coachella Valley playwrights, offering audiences a powerful mix of voices, themes and theatrical styles. Get tickets
Herman’s Hermits Starring Peter Noone
The Plaza Theatre hosts a legendary night of music on Saturday, January 10 as Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone takes the stage. Universally celebrated as one of rock’s most charismatic and enduring performers, Noone brings the unmistakable voice and charm that helped sell over 60 million records and deliver 20 top‑40 hits. His storytelling, wit and timeless sound create an unique concert experience. Get tickets
Second Saturday Book Swap
The Perez Road Art and Design District invites the community to its Second Saturday Book Swap on Saturday, January 10 from 12–4 pm; it’s a relaxed, creative gathering centered on art, design and architecture titles. Guests are encouraged to bring a gently loved book to exchange with fellow readers while enjoying complimentary drinks and light snacks. More info
Danity Kane – The Untold Chapter Tour
Danity Kane brings DK – The Untold Chapter Tour to The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa onSaturday, January 10 at 8 pm, celebrating two decades of chart‑topping harmonies and pop‑R&B legacy. Three members reunite onstage for the first time in years, offering reimagined hits, candid storytelling and a powerful new chapter in the group’s evolution. Get tickets
Desert Winds Chamber Music Concert
Desert Winds Freedom Band takes center stage for a Chamber Music Concert at St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church in Palm Desert on Sunday, January 11 at 3 pm, offering an afternoon of exceptional solo and small‑ensemble performances from some of the ensemble’s most talented musicians. Presented in the church’s warm and resonant setting, this program returns after last season’s debut drew a packed house and two standing ovations. 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!
- Rock the Park: Bee Gees Forever
Wed. Jan 7 at Palm Springs Downtown Park - Palm Springs International Film Festival
Jan 2–13 – Passes on Sale Now - Hair Transplant Consultation Day
Thu. Jan 8 from 9 am–3 pm at Contour Dermatology - The Female Form: Tom Wesselmann & Mickalene Thomas
Dec. 22–Jan. 25 at the Palm Springs Art Museum - Firebirds Pride Night at Acrisure Arena
Sat. Jan 10 from 6–9 pm - A Piece of Thread at the 10-Minute Play Festival
Sat. Jan 10 at 7:30 pm and Sun. Jan 11 at 2 pm at Revolution Stage Company - One Man, Two Guvnors, presented by CVRep
Jan 14–Feb 1 - Melissa Manchester w/The Desert Symphony
Thu. Jan 15 at 7 pm at The Show - Camp Morning Wood, presented by Prism Theater
Jan 16–Mar 22 - TASTE – On The Mark’s Food & Beverage Festival
Sat. Jan 17 from 12–5:30 pm at The Shag House - Bourbon Tasting featuring the Garrison Brothers Distillery
Mon. Jan 19 from 6–8 pm at The Purple Room
KGAY 103.1 FM
The KGAY 103.1 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 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 103.1 online
This Week: Modgirl kicks things off on Thursday, January 8 at 7 pm at the Hideaway Club in La Quinta. She heads to West Hollywood on Friday, January 9 for a late‑night Velour Fridays takeover at Roosterfish at 9:30 pm, before wrapping the weekend with a bright, beat‑driven A.M. Stream at Café La Jefa on Sunday, January 11 at 10 am!
- 10 International Films to See at Palm Springs International Film Festival
- Exploring Beauty, Power, and the Gaze at Palm Springs Art Museum
- Ten New Greater Palm Springs Restaurants Bringing Fresh Flavor and Bold Dining Experiences
- Palm Springs Advances Design Work for New Connected Convention District
- Every Gay TV Show That Defined 2025: Renewals, Cancellations, and Cultural Impact
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 2026 Coachella Valley Calendar of Events.
Listen to KGAY over the air, stream it [here], or listen on iHeart Radio with Alexa or Siri by saying “Play K-G-A-Y” 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.