Jackie Kennedy gave an interview to LIFE Magazine just days after President John F. Kennedy was assassinated. She told the reporter that each night before going to bed, JFK loved listening to the title song from Alan Jay Lerner and Frederick Loewe’s 1960 Broadway musical Camelot.
In the interview, Jackie emphasized her husband’s favorite lyrics:
“Don’t let it be forgot, that once there was a spot, for one brief shining moment, that was known as Camelot.”
The enduring legacy narrative was of JFK as King Arthur and his administration as a lost golden age harkening back to the times of Camelot.
And so it goes with our retiring Palm Springs Police Chief, Andy Mills, and the first lady of our city, Cathy Mills.
Chief Mills has been our ‘King Arthur’, and our Palm Springs bubble is that of Camelot: where peace, culture, and chivalry flourishes in a world otherwise dominated by dark times, like we are facing now.
I’ve had the honor of sipping bourbon with the chief at The Purple Room and being invited to their home for dinner. Along the way, I’ve gotten to know them both as extraordinary people who came to our city at just the right time.
As Andy Mills’ retirement nears, the accolades have begun. First, LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert’s CEO Mike Thompson presented Andy and Cathy with The Center’s inaugural Allies Award Wednesday.
There’s an event planned to honor Chief Mills on Thursday, September 3rd. Details will be forthcoming. And the City of Palm Springs is conducting a community survey (open through August 14) to gather public input on leadership qualities for the next chief.
Unlike in Camelot, it’s doubtful that they will return from their “Avalon” when we may need them again. But the years that Andy Mills led the force and truly became a “chief of the people” will be etched into my memory forever. And Cathy’s famous brownies will live on my hips for the rest of my days as well.
Brad Fuhr, your K-Gay Desert Guide
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ALL WEEK: Taste of Summer / Rancho Mirage
Taste of Summer / Rancho Mirage is underway, running through August 16 — and now, the fun goes even further with the Passport Game. The annual program invites residents and visitors to explore specials, cool treats, and flavorful experiences while supporting restaurants and local nonprofits. Wristbands unlock exclusive offers throughout the season, and your official passport turns the whole adventure into a delicious scavenger hunt across thirty participating restaurants. More info
MON: Learn to Meditate
Discover inner peace as you Learn to Meditate at the Cathedral City Public Library on Monday, August 3 from 12–12:30 pm. This monthly session is presented by Dharmachakra Kadampa Buddhist Center to help participants integrate meaningful practices into their daily routines. These classes are open to everyone regardless of experience level. Attendees will learn the basics of the practice in a welcoming environment. More info
WED: 1st Wednesday Art Walk
Local creativity takes center stage during the 1st Wednesday Art Walk at Backstreet Art District on Wednesday, August 5 from 5–7 pm. This monthly event is often called one of the area’s best-kept secrets, giving locals and visitors a fun chance to chat directly with artists about their work. You can wander through the district to find artists working in their studios in the back while featuring finished pieces in their front galleries. More info
WED: Jeopardy! Bar League
Trivia enthusiasts can test their knowledge at Jeopardy! Bar League at The Palm Springs Surf Club on Wednesday, August 5 from 7–9 pm. Participants gather their teams to compete in an official bar experience inspired by the famous quiz show while climbing a national leaderboard. The evening features food and drink specials along with weekly prizes for the top-performing teams. Exclusive giveaways from Sony and the show are also part of the fun. More info
THU: Mister Mr. Kink 2027 Contest
The community is invited to watch the Mister Mr. Kink 2027 Contest at The Velvet Rope on Thursday, August 6 from 7–10 pm, featuring Mr. Kink and a panel of judges who will select the next representative for the Mr. Palm Springs Leather contest held in November. Contestants are judged on their commitment to education, mentorship, advocacy, and fetish pride. More info
FRI–SUN: Splash House Weekend 1
The desert’s ultimate summer escape arrives with Splash House held at The Saguaro, Renaissance Palm Springs, and Hilton Palm Springs from Friday–Sunday, August 7–9. This poolside music festival features a high-energy lineup headlined by Foster the People, KETTAMA, Layton Giordani, and The Chainsmokers. Guests will enjoy daytime sets, curated lounges, and signature resort experiences. Late-night shows at the Palm Springs Air Museum keep the momentum going after the sun sets. The party continues for Weekend 2 with a whole new lineup next weekend, Aug 14–16. More info
FRI: Billy L’Amour and the Love Notes
A night of vintage romance and soulful music awaits at Billy L’Amour and the Love Notes hosted by Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs on Friday, August 7 from 7–8:30 pm. This week’s “Ladies Night” theme celebrates the stories and songs of strong women, featuring guest star Keisha D alongside Billy. Backed by the live band The Love Notes, the performance delivers a high-energy cabaret atmosphere with show-stopping vocals and dazzling costumes. More info
FRI: Neon Nostalgic – 80’s Music Television
Fans can travel back to the golden age of music television with Neon Nostalgic Presents – 80’s Music Television at The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa on Friday, August 7 at 8 pm. This live performance features Neon Nostalgic syncing their music in real time with original music videos from artists like Prince and U2. Original MTV VJs Mark Goodman and Alan Hunter host the evening, sharing inside stories from the decade that shaped pop culture. It is a full-sensory rewind to an iconic era. More info
ALSO THIS WEEK
- Senior Living Lunch and Learn • Learn about Coachella Valley senior living options, including in-home care, assisted living, and memory care, specifically for the LGBTQ community and allies on Tuesday from 11 am–12 pm at the Mizell Center.
- Thursday Night – VillageFest • The famous street fair celebrating food, entertainment, art, and shopping, Thursday from 7–10 pm.
- A Queer Arcana: Art, Magic, and Spirit • This art exhibition brings together an intergenerational group of artists exploring how magic and esoteric knowledge shaped queer culture. Palm Springs Art Museum is open Thursday–Sunday.
- Palm Springs Certified Farmers’ Market • This indoor market features local produce and goods from various vendors during the summer months while staying cool inside the Palm Springs Pavilion, Saturday from 8 am–1 pm.
- Welcoming Yoga at The Center • Facilitator Marci Stonehedge leads a non-judgmental, slow basic practice focused on increasing circulation and improving flexibility, Saturday from 4–5:15 pm at The LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert.
- Dance Ranch / Country Dance Saturdays • Featuring a Do Si Do line dance lesson by Kyle Young, this country western dance group welcomes all levels. The evening includes two-step, waltz, shadow, and swing dancing on Saturday from 7–9:30 pm at Step by Step Dance Studio.
- Indio Second Saturdays • This free monthly community event features live music, food vendors, and family entertainment. Each month offers a fresh lineup of talented artists at the Outdoor Livingroom stage to celebrate community and good times. The fun begins Saturday at 7 pm in Downtown Indio.
- Don’t Look Back – The Boston Experience • Don’t Look Back brings Boston’s soaring vocals and arena-sized sound to the stage. The performance features favorites including “More Than a Feeling,” “Peace of Mind,” and “Foreplay/Long Time,” capturing the band’s legendary layered guitar sound, Saturday at 8 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Cathedral City.
- From Struggle to Strength • This meditation course explores how to respond to life’s challenges with patience and clarity. The session focuses on Using Difficulties to Grow, helping participants cultivate compassion and transform stressful situations into stepping stones, Sunday from 10–11:30 am at Dharmachakra Kadampa Buddhist Center.
- The Rack Pack: Weekly Men’s (Chinese) Mahjong Meet-Up • The Rack Pack hosts a weekly relaxed afternoon of Chinese Mahjong for men of all experience levels, Sunday from 4–6 pm at ACE Hotel & Swim Club.
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SAY KGAY to Save on Rivalry Merch
Ride the Heated Rivalry wave with a fresh batch of themed T‑shirts now available through the Pride Store. Some designs rep your favorite fictional teams from the show, while others turn up the temperature with bolder, more provocative takes. Pick your style, show your fandom, and save 10% storewide at checkout with promo code SAYKGAY – Shop Now
Summer 2026 Visitor Map & Guide – FREE!
Check out the Summer 2026 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, all curated to make exploring the valley even easier. Look for the latest edition at businesses and newsstands around town, as well as at hotels, visitor centers, and participating sponsors, or view it online.
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!
THIS WEEKEND
SAT: Premiere Screenings of Some Kind of Wonderful
The LGBTQ+ drama series Some Kind of Wonderful makes its dazzling debut with an exclusive premiere screening of Episodes 1 & 2 on Saturday, August 8 at Mary Pickford Theater in Cathedral City. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Palm Springs, the show follows best friends Sam, Steve, and Tony as they trade Los Angeles for desert life—only to discover a world of romance, reinvention, and unexpected connection. Join the cast and creators for two screenings (4:30 pm and 7 pm), Q&A sessions, and a lively reception with lite bites and a no‑host bar. Your ticket helps support the completion of season one and future LGBTQ+ stories that matter. More info
SAT: Night Swim
An ultimate after-hours pool party takes place during Night Swim at The Palm Springs Surf Club on Saturday, August 8 from 6–10 pm. The evening features live DJs and cocktails served at the Island Bar under the night lights. Attendees have access to the iconic Island Pool and Lazy River for a unique nocturnal swimming experience. 21+ over only. More info
SAT: Lionel Richie and Earth, Wind & Fire
Legendary artists Lionel Richie and Earth, Wind & Fire take the stage at Acrisure Arena on Saturday, August 8 at 7:30 pm. As part of the Sing A Song All Night Long Tour, the performance promises a powerful blend of soul, pop, and funk that spans generations. More info
SAT: Gipsy Kings Featuring Nicolas Reyes
Global rhythms fill the air when Gipsy Kings Featuring Nicolas Reyes performs at The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa on Saturday, August 8 at 8 pm. Co-founder and lead singer Nicolas Reyes leads the group in a celebration of world-renowned flamenco, rumba, and Latin music. The Grammy Award-winning sound has sold over 14 million albums worldwide, making the group an international phenomenon. More info
SAT: Star Party at the Monument
Enjoy a cosmic adventure during the Star Party at the Monument at the Santa Rosa & San Jacinto Mountains National Monument Visitor Center on Saturday, August 8 from 8–10 pm. The Astronomical Society of the Desert leads this twice-monthly gathering to showcase the spectacular desert sky after sunset. Guests can participate in guided “sky tours” and look through telescopes and binoculars for close-up views of planets, stars, and other celestial wonders. Experts are on hand to provide insights into the galaxy, making it an educational and fun experience for all ages. It’s a great way to support Friends of the Desert Mountains while marveling at the night sky. More info
SAT: Indio Second Saturdays Millennial Night
Music lovers can relive their favorite throwback hits during Indio Second Saturdays Millennial Night at Center Stage on Saturday, August 8 from 7–9 pm. This free, all-ages concert features the high-energy band Y2K2K performing a curated set list of millennial-era favorites. Part of a monthly community gathering in Downtown Indio, the evening offers a sensory feast with live music, mouthwatering food vendors, and family entertainment. More info
PLAN AHEAD: Modernism Week October Tickets on Sale
Modernism Week October is just a couple months away — and tickets are on sale as of August 1. With more than 50 events running October 15–18, this year’s lineup is one of the most exciting yet, blending fan‑favorite tours with brand‑new experiences that spotlight midcentury architecture, design, dining, and nightlife across Palm Springs. Expect curated dinners, nighttime socials, exclusive home tours, immersive performances, and even a first‑ever Modernism Week–produced excursion to the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. Many events are free or low‑cost, and the most popular tours sell out fast. More info
- Hot Spot Bingo with Deven & Ned
Mondays at 7 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs - Some Kind of Wonderful Premiere Screenings
Sat Aug 8 at 4:30 pm and 7 pm - CVRep 2026/2027 Season – Tickets on Sale Now
Oct 28–Mar 21 - Clear the Shelters
Sat. & Sun. Aug 15 & 16 from 10 am–5 pm at the Palm Springs Animal Shelter - Superfuzz Saturday Nights at CCBC
August 15 & 19 from 8 pm–Midnight - Out on the Mountain
Fri. Aug 21 from 6 pm–midnight at Six Flags Magic Mountain - Summer Moon Dance Party
Fri. Aug 28 from 7–10 pm at the Palm Springs Art Museum - Gay Days Anaheim 2026
Sep 18–20 at Disneyland Resort
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 nonstop 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
WIN TICKETS to Out on the Mountain
KGAY 103.1 wants to give you the chance to experience Out on the Mountain — the Ultimate Pride Party at Six Flags Magic Mountain on Friday, August 21. This private, all‑ages LGBTQ+ celebration packs the park with thrill rides, drag performances, dance parties, and a full night of community joy. It’s Pride… with roller coasters! Enter to WIN on the KGAY Contest Page
Sunny 106.5 FM
Take the sunshine indoors with the Sunny 106.5 Alexa skill — just tell Alexa to “enable Sunny Palm Springs Radio skill” and the brightest variety will be one voice command away at home or at work. Sunny 106.5 is the Coachella Valley’s new home for feel‑good hits from the ’90s, 2000s, and beyond, blending familiar favorites with local updates and weekday weather from Patrick Evans. Play Sunny 106.5 Online
Join the Sunny 106.5 Lucky Duck Club and unlock exclusive access to secret contests, special offers, and fun surprises all year long! Members get insider perks and first dibs on exciting station events — it’s free, easy, and full of rewards for Sunny listeners. 👉 Sign up now
- Coachella Valley Restaurant Openings: One More Bite Dumplings, Les Filles Expansion, and Palm Springs Food News
- Pride on the Page Celebrates Fifth Anniversary with Free LGBTQ+ Book Festival
- 5 Frozen Sweet Treats to Try This Summer in Greater Palm Springs
- The Powerful Wellness Benefits of Sunshine in the Coachella Valley
- Modernism Week October 2026 Unveils New Tours, Nightlife & Midcentury Experiences
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.
This Way Out, the award‑winning weekly LGBTQ radio program, airs every Sunday at 6:30 a.m. on KGAY 103.1 and is also available on‑demand via our streaming player under Menu>Streams>Podcasts. As the only internationally distributed LGBTQ radio show, it airs on about 200 community stations worldwide and delivers global queer news, reporting, interviews, and cultural features.
