Brad’s Blog: Gay Desert Guide Week of Aug 31, 2026

It was just a month ago that I paid tribute to Palm Springs Police Chief Andy Mills and his wife, Cathy, as they announced that they were saying goodbye to the Coachella Valley and hello to retirement.

This week, it comes to fruition in a public ceremony honoring the chief and his wife that will take place Thursday at the Palm Springs Convention Center and you’re invited!

 “Celebrating a Legacy of Leadership: The Mission Continues” will bring together department members, city leaders, and friends to recognize Chief Mills’ dedication, vision, and impact on Palm Springs. The program features remarks from Chief Mills and Deputy Chief Kyle Stjerne, with Lieutenant Michael Torres serving as Master of Ceremony. 

Andy’s career started in Branch County, Michigan — not far from where I celebrated my 50th class reunion over the weekend — and about the same time as my friends and I were cruising the back roads of southwest Michigan. We never got pulled over for our antics, but suffice to say we may have gotten into big trouble if a young deputy Mills would have pulled us over.

Luckily, I met Chief Mills through our professional connections. We’ve had him on KGAY over his tenure for both interviews and our KGAY Cares PSA campaign. John Taylor will interview the chief one last time this week and we’ll be sure to share it.

While the search for Palm Springs next police chief continues, the department will be in good hands with Deputy Chief Kyle Stjerne during the process. There’s a deep bench on the force and we’re an attractive place to recruit to.

I’m looking forward to celebrating “A Legacy of Leadership” with the community on Thursday and sending off Chief Mills and Cathy into the sunset with tokens of the community’s appreciation, but more of all with our deep respect for turning around the department into one that sees our LGBTQ+ community.

Brad Fuhr, your K-Gay Desert Guide

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Greater Palm Springs Spa Month

Greater Palm Springs Spa Month unfolds across the Greater Palm Springs Area all month long, celebrating National Self‑Care Awareness Month with exclusive wellness experiences throughout all nine resort cities. This featured promotion invites guests to slow down, breathe deeply, and embrace self‑care their way—whether through a mineral spring soak, a rejuvenating facial, a deeply relaxing massage, a sound bath under the desert sky, or a full day dedicated entirely to restoration. Participating resort spas, day spas, and hot springs spas offer limited‑time treatments and special packages all September, making it easy to explore, book, and enjoy your perfect wellness escape. More info

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THIS WEEK: The Purple Room is Back

The Purple Room Palm Springs brings back its celebrated weekly lineup beginning Tuesday–Thursday, September 1–3 from 6:30–9:30 pm. Tuesdays feature jazz legend Rose Mallett performing classics by Holiday, Vaughn, and Ellington. Wednesdays swing into The Music of the Rat Pack Era, and Thursdays offer a romantic Date Night with a three‑course dinner and live jazz from the Andy Fraga Quartet. It’s a stylish midweek escape filled with timeless music and supper‑club charm. And check out the opening weekend below! More info

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WED: 1st Wednesday Art Walk @ Backstreet Art District

The 1st Wednesday Art Walk takes place on Wednesday, September 2 from 5–7 pm at Backstreet Art District, giving locals and visitors a chance to explore artist studios and galleries in one of Palm Springs’ most creative enclaves. Attendees can meet working artists, discover new pieces, and enjoy an evening immersed in the district’s monthly showcase. More info

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WED: Chicago & Styx — The Windy Cities Tour

The Chicago & Styx: The Windy Cities Tour arrives at Acrisure Arena on Wednesday, September 2 at 7 pm, bringing two legendary American bands together for their first-ever co-headlining tour. Fans can expect a featured night packed with decades of chart‑topping hits, signature harmonies, and the unmistakable sound of two Rock and Roll Hall of Fame icons sharing one stage. More info

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THU: NSFW – New Season of Work

NSFW – New Season of Work opens at Rubine Red Gallery on Thursday, September 3 from 10 am–5 pm, launching a month‑long exhibition running through September 30. Featuring new work by Russ White, T. Young, Merick Reed, Don Fisher, and Terrence Payne, this showcase celebrates the start of the 2026–2027 Palm Springs Art Season with fresh perspectives and dynamic contemporary art from five standout creators. More info

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THU: Celebrating Palm Springs Police Chief Andy Mills: The Mission Continues

Celebrate a remarkable legacy of public service at the Palm Springs Convention Center on Thursday, September 3 from 4–5:30 pm. The Palm Springs Police Department invites the community to honor Chief Andrew Mills as he concludes his distinguished service and begins his next exciting chapter. This special celebration brings together department members, city leaders, and friends to recognize the Chief’s dedication, vision, and positive impact on Palm Springs. The program features inspiring remarks from both Chief Andrew Mills and Deputy Chief Kyle Stjerne, with Lieutenant Michael Torres serving as Master of Ceremony. More info

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FRI–SUN: Palm Springs Women’s Jazz Festival / 2026 Blues at the Woodstock

The Palm Springs Women’s Jazz Festival / 2026 Blues at the Woodstock takes the stage at Hotel Zoso on Friday, September 4 from 6:30–9 pm, kicking off a featured Labor Day weekend of powerhouse blues performances. The evening stars Miriah Avila, Kimberly Nichole, and Dr. Gail Jhonson’s Blues All‑Stars, celebrating independent female artists with bold voices and unforgettable musicianship. The festival continues through September 6 with concerts, Q&As, exhibitions, and more. Check our event listing for more details: More info

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FRI: P!nk Tribute Night

Get ready for a high-energy concert experience with PInk Tribute Night at The Social Cafe & Lounge on Friday, September 4 at 7 pm. After three consecutive sold-out seasons captivating audiences in Puerto Vallarta and the Bay Area, the sensational Eva makes her highly anticipated Palm Springs debut as part of the venue’s First Fridays live performance series. Channeling P!nk’s raw energy, Eva doesn’t just impersonate one of pop music’s most iconic performers—she delivers a full, unforgettable concert experience up close. More info

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FRI: The Temptations

The Temptations perform at The Show on Friday, September 4 at 8 pm, bringing their iconic harmonies, signature choreography, and decades of chart‑topping hits to the stage. With classics like “My Girl,” “Get Ready,” and “Papa Was a Rolling Stone,” this legendary group continues to captivate audiences with stories and songs spanning generations. More info

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FRI–SUN: Purple Room Season Opening Weekend

Purple Room Palm Springs heats up Labor Day weekend with David Burnham headlining Friday–Saturday, September 4–5, performing Burnham Sings Bublé at 8 pm (dinner at 6 pm). His brand‑new show celebrates the greatest hits of multi‑Grammy winner Michael Bublé with contemporary swing and powerhouse vocals. On Sunday, September 6, The Judy Show! returns as Michael Holmes brings his beloved madcap classic back to the stage. More info

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FRIDAY: WET + WILD | Rump & Bass

Presented by Eagle Cathedral City, WET + WILD: Rump & Bass ignites Labor Day Weekend with a two‑part, high‑energy celebration at The Sonoran. Friday’s WILD event on September 4 from 9 pm–2 am unleashes a late‑night dance party featuring Circle Jerk and the Palm Springs debut of NYC DJ duo MA’AM, delivering thick basslines and a wild crowd vibe. The weekend continues Sunday, September 6 from 2–7 pm with WET, a sun‑soaked pool party soundtracked by Marc Kelly and Bryan Hughes. More info

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SAT–SUN: The Great Backstage Blowout Sale

The Great Backstage Blowout Sale takes over Indio Performing Arts Center on Saturday–Sunday, September 5–6 from 8 am–4 pm, offering two huge days of indoor bargain hunting to benefit Desert TheatreWorks. Shoppers can explore costumes, props, set pieces, lighting and sound equipment, furniture, clothing, electronics, and more—many with real stage history. Every purchase supports DTW’s nonprofit mission, youth programming, and upcoming DTW Thrift Shop opening later this fall. More info

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SAT: A Luncheon with Nancy Kerrigan

A Luncheon with Nancy Kerrigan invites guests to Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa Rancho Mirage on Saturday, September 5 from 11 am–1:30 pm for an elegant fundraising celebration hosted by The Desert Figure Skating Club. The event features a live on‑stage interview with Nancy Kerrigan, moderated by Olympian Randy Gardner, plus a book signing and silent auction supporting the club’s programs. More info

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SAT–SUN: Drag Me To The Movies

Drag Me To The Movies screens four beloved drag‑themed classics at The Palm Springs Plaza Theatre on Saturday–Sunday, September 5–6 with showtimes at 2 pm, 7 pm, and 7:30 pm. Audiences can enjoy The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert, The Birdcage, To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything! Julie Newmar, and Cabaret, celebrating resilience, self‑expression, and queer cinematic history all weekend long. More info

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SAT: Unbuttoned, A Boylesque Social Experience

Unbuttoned, A Boylesque Social Experience brings the electrifying talent of Michael Silas to The Social Cafe & Lounge on Saturday, September 5 from 7 pm–8:30 pm. Silas blends dance, storytelling, and sharp comedic flair into an intimate boylesque evening shaped by decades of global performance experience. More info

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SAT: ABBA L.A. – A Tribute to ABBA

ABBA L.A. – A Tribute to ABBA lights up Agua Caliente Casino Cathedral City on Saturday, September 5 at 8 pm, celebrating the disco‑era magic of ABBA with favorites like “Dancing Queen,” “Mamma Mia,” “Take a Chance on Me,” and “Waterloo.” Expect soaring harmonies, glittering pop nostalgia, and a dance‑floor‑ready night. More info

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SUN: Burgers, Boys & Brews Sunday BBQ

Burgers, Boys & Brews Sunday BBQ fires up The Social Cafe & Lounge on Sunday, September 6 from 2:30–5 pm, serving grilled burgers, hot dogs, bottomless mimosas, bottomless draft beer, and a hot male performance show. This backyard‑style brunch party blends great food, cold drinks, music, and high‑energy entertainment for a new Sunday tradition. More info

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Tramway Holiday Hours

The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is offering extended Labor Day Weekend hours, making it an ideal last chance to ride before the annual maintenance closure on September 8. From September 5–7, trams start at 8 am each day, with late evening departures — last tram up at 9 pm and down at 10:30 pm on Saturday and Sunday, and last tram up at 8 pm and down at 9:30 pm on Monday. It’s a perfect time to enjoy cool mountain air, scenic hikes, or dining at Peaks Restaurant and Pines Café before the Tram temporarily shuts down.

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• Queer Colon Collective • Queer Colon Collective hosts a virtual community gathering on Tuesday from 9–10 am. LGBTQ+ individuals, colorectal cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers will connect and share experiences around colorectal health awareness in a safe, inclusive digital space.
• 1st Wednesday Art Walk • Backstreet Art District welcomes locals and visitors to meet and chat with artists in their creative spaces on Wednesday from 5–7 pm. Attendees can explore studios in the back and galleries in the front that showcase outstanding works of art.
• Jeopardy! Bar League • Trivia enthusiasts can gather their teams to test their knowledge in a competitive game on Wednesday from 7–9 pm at The Palm Springs Surf Club. Players will compete in an official bar trivia contest inspired by America’s Favorite Quiz Show to win prizes.
• A Queer Arcana: Art, Magic, and Spirit • Explore how magic, spirituality, and esoteric knowledge have shaped queer art and culture Thursday–Sunday at the Palm Springs Art Museum. The exhibition features works reflecting occultism, witchcraft, and mysticism to highlight alternative spiritual practices in LGBTQ+ liberation struggles.
• Thursday Night – VillageFest • Local valley businesses bring food, entertainment, art, and shopping to our iconic street fair on Thursday from 7–10 pm at Villagefest.
• Singin’ & Swingin’ • Performers Tod Macofsky and Kari Kirkland celebrate jazz, swing, and timeless standards with a live band on Friday from 7–7:30 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs.
• P!nk – A Tribute • Performer Eva as P!nk channels the powerhouse vocals, raw energy, and attitude of P!nk on Friday from 7–8:30 pm at The Social Cafe & Lounge. This electrifying tribute performance brings a full concert feel straight to the desert after three consecutive sold-out seasons.
• The Music of The Eagles • Tribute band Boys of Summer kicks off Labor Day weekend with a celebration of the Eagles’ timeless catalog of rock classics on Friday from 8–11 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Cathedral City.
• CCBC Pool Party Labor Day Weekend • Holiday celebrants can jump into the pool and enjoy a holiday gathering on Saturday from 12–4 pm at CCBC Resort, inviting friends and visitors to kick back and socialize during the festive Labor Day weekend.
• Drag Me To The Movies at The Palm Springs Plaza Theatre • Film fans can celebrate Labor Day weekend with a fabulous cinematic journey Saturday–Sunday at The Palm Springs Plaza Theatre. The lineup features beloved classics including The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert, The Birdcage, To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything! Julie Newmar, and Cabaret.
• Night Swim at Palm Springs Surf Club • Lively DJs spin music for an after-hours pool party under the lights on Saturday from 6–10 pm at The Palm Springs Surf Club. Guests can swim in the Island Pool, float down the Lazy River, and enjoy cocktails at the Island Bar during this 21+ event.
• Dance Ranch / Country Dance Saturdays • Dance Ranch Palm Springs hosts a welcoming night of country western dancing on Saturday from 7–9:30 pm at Step by Step Dance Studio. Instructors Rob Ollander-Krane and Kyle Young will teach lessons in shadow and line dancing for dancers of all levels.
• The Rack Pack: Weekly Men’s (Chinese) Mahjong Meet-Up • The Rack Pack invites men of all skill levels to a relaxed afternoon of Chinese Mahjong on Sunday from 4–6 pm at ACE Hotel & Swim Club.

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Pet Star 2027 Photo Contest

Furry, feathered, and scaly companions across the Coachella Valley can shine in the spotlight during the Pet Star 2027 Photo Contest, running now through September 30. This annual fundraiser by Greater Palm Springs Animal Allies invites pet owners to submit photos for a $25 entry in five categories, with votes costing $1 each. The top vote‑getter becomes the 2027 Pet Star Champion and lands the calendar cover, while other high‑ranking pets appear inside. Supporters can also preorder calendars or reserve special dates for $20. More info

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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

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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, 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.

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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!

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• Hot Spot Bingo with Deven & Ned
  Mondays at 7 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs
• Greater Palm Springs Spa Month
  Sep 1–30 at participating Coachella Valley spas
• Chicago & Styx: The Windy Cities Tour
  Wed. Sep 2 at 7 pm
• Palm Springs Women’s Jazz Festival / 2026 Blues at the Woodstock
  Sep 4–5 at Hotel Zoso
• KGAY Big SPLASH Pool Party | Support Your Station
  Fri. Sep 11 from 7–10 pm at the Palm Springs Surf Club
• Palm Springs Gay Softball League (PSGSL) New Player Clinics
  Sat. & Sun. Sep 12 & 13 at 9 am at Demuth Park
• Nights on the Oasis Trail
  Thu. Sep 17, from 6–9 pm at the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum
• Gay Days Anaheim 2026
  Sep 18–20 at Disneyland Resort
• Joshua Tree Music Festival
  Oct 8–11 at Joshua Tree Lake Campground
• CVRep 2026–27 Season – Tickets on Sale Now
  October 2026–March 2027
• PS Leather Pride | 2026 Valhalla
  Oct 29–Nov 1 at Hotel Zoso, CCBC, Dick’s, The Eagle, Toolshed

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.

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