The Palm Springs Public Library Foundation is preparing to celebrate a milestone year for one of the Coachella Valley’s most beloved literary gatherings. The 5th Annual Pride on the Page Book Festival will take place Saturday, November 14 from 10 am–9 pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center, bringing together acclaimed LGBTQIA+ authors, moderators, readers and community members for a full day of conversations centered on identity, personal experience and the power of storytelling.
This year’s theme, “Five Years of Pride on the Page: Our Lives. Our Words. Our Stories,” reflects the festival’s continued commitment to amplifying LGBTQ+ voices through literature and meaningful dialogue.
To commemorate its fifth anniversary, organizers have launched a new website, prideonthepage.org, where attendees can view the complete schedule, read author biographies, explore event details and register for both the daytime and evening programs. Registration is free, though separate registration is required for each program.
Register here: https://tinyurl.com/t3b7pd4t
Learn more: https://www.pslibraryfoundation.org/pride-on-the-page-2026
A Growing Literary Tradition
Since its debut in 2022, Pride on the Page has evolved into a standout cultural event, welcoming more than 150 LGBTQ+ and affirming authors, moderators and special guests. The festival has become a gathering place for readers, writers and allies seeking thoughtful discussions around literature, culture and lived experiences.
This year’s anniversary celebration continues that tradition with conversations exploring memoir, activism, family dynamics, identity, popular culture and the creative process behind some of today’s most compelling books.
According to the Palm Springs Public Library Foundation, the festival was created to provide community members with opportunities to discover new authors, hear powerful stories and connect through shared experiences.
Complimentary Food, Books and Festival Experiences
In addition to author conversations, registered attendees will enjoy a variety of complimentary offerings throughout the day.
Morning guests can enjoy coffee and bagels courtesy of Koffi and Townie Bagels, while afternoon attendees can pick up free hot cookies provided by Hot Cookie Palm Springs while supplies last.
A limited number of free books will also be distributed throughout the festival. In celebration of the event’s fifth anniversary, organizers will give away copies of featured authors’ books, including 30 copies per daytime author and 50 copies for the evening featured author appearance.
Attendees may line up outside Theatre One beginning 15 minutes before each session for an opportunity to receive a free book. Festival registration and an event wristband are required, and books will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last.
Daytime Program Highlights
The daytime program features an impressive lineup of conversations examining memoir, fiction, identity and LGBTQ+ culture.
Mining the Mother/Daughter Memoir
Author Erika Simpson, whose memoir This Is Your Mother explores family relationships and personal history, will join Danielle Myers-Porter, co-owner of Get Lit Books and Things, for a discussion on writing intimate family stories.
The Memoir in Collaboration
Daniel M. Jaffe, author of Russian Silhouette: A Memoir of Activism and Identity, will be joined by publisher Ian Henzel of Rattling Good Yarns Press to discuss the unique relationship between writer, editor and publisher.
Between Fact and Fiction: The Personal Behind the Novel
Acclaimed author Rasheed Newson will discuss how personal experiences inform fiction in conversation with noted critic and journalist Meredith Maran.
Breaking Free: A Queer Black Man’s Journey
Authors Phill Branch and Geoffrey Newman will explore themes of identity, resilience and personal growth through the lens of their respective memoirs.
LGBTQ+ Social Change Through the Stories of Athletes and Entertainers in Popular Culture
Author Lisa M. Stulberg will join writer, actress, producer and activist Jen Richards for a conversation examining how popular culture has influenced LGBTQ+ visibility and social progress.
A “Showbiz!” Life
Entertainer Murray Hill will share stories from Showbiz! My Life as a Middle-Aged Man during a lively discussion with actor and comedian Tim Bagley.
Evening Program Features Ty Herndon
The festival’s evening program spotlights Grammy-nominated country music artist and author Ty Herndon.
During a conversation titled What Mattered Most, Herndon will discuss his memoir and career with literary organizer and Pride on the Page co-creator Corey Roskin. The evening session offers attendees an opportunity to hear from one of country music’s most visible LGBTQ+ voices about his personal journey and professional experiences.
Festival Tent and Book Signings
Beyond the theater presentations, visitors can browse a free outdoor festival tent featuring local LGBTQ+ authors, independent publishers and community organizations. The outdoor area will also host book signings with featured authors throughout the day.
Books by participating authors and moderators will be available for purchase through The Best Bookstore in Palm Springs, creating opportunities for attendees to engage directly with writers and take home signed copies of their favorite works.
As Pride on the Page enters its fifth year, the festival continues to celebrate the stories, voices and experiences that enrich LGBTQ+ literature while fostering connection and community in Palm Springs.
For schedules, registration and additional information, visit: https://www.pslibraryfoundation.org/pride-on-the-page-2026
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