My summer pilgrimage to Sonoma County and Gay Wine Weekend is just ending, and I’m making my way back to Palm Springs at the start of this week. Producer and Founder Gary Saperstein celebrated 15 years of giving back through wine and community, which benefits Face to Face, the Sonoma County equivalent of what DAP used to be.
In the blink of an eye, an event with humble beginnings as a backyard tea dance has grown to attract people from all over North America. Gay Desert Guide has been a media partner for most of those years, and now KGAY is also a part of it.
We even gave away a VIP experience and the winner, Tracy Woo, wore his “SAY KGAY” sticker all weekend! (See photo above!)
For me, attending Gay Wine Weekend is as much about seeing how Gary builds community as it is sampling the nectar of the gods from wine country. Don’t get me wrong, wine tasting is a hobby of mine. While I don’t have a large collection, I do have some bottles chilling at home, and they will have good company from my purchases. But the way winemakers, restaurateurs and others support GWW is not dissimilar to how we operate in Palm Springs.
Mariah Hanson, who founded and produced The Dinah for decades lives in the Sonoma area, and attended the drag brunch and wine auction on Sunday. She and I had a few minutes to chat about legacy and making way for new blood in our endeavors. I think Gary may be in that same place. And it got me thinking as well.
As a generation who came through the AIDS crisis, legalizing same sex marriage and fighting for our rights tooth and nail, we’re getting tired. There are younger people with new ideas, a different perspective and new challenges in their world who can take what we’ve built and improve upon it.
Mariah made that step away from her “baby” and I know it’s only a matter of time before I’ll be doing the same. For now, I’m enjoying the fruits of my labor (fermented in this case). I still maintain the fast pace that our K-Gay Desert Guide events calendar demands, but am starting to contemplate what my next chapter may look like.
Brad Fuhr, your K-Gay Desert Guide
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TUE: Nic & Desi
Nic & Desi take the stage at CVRep for a one‑night‑only Summer Cabaret Series performance on Tuesday, July 21 at 7:30 pm. The evening features the award‑winning duo’s soaring vocals, thrilling tap‑dancing, and heartfelt storytelling, all showcased in CVRep’s intimate setting. Their chemistry and artistry shine through Broadway favorites and timeless classics. More info
TUE: Goo Goo Dolls
The Goo Goo Dolls bring their iconic blend of ballads and rock anthems to The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa on Tuesday, July 21 at 8 pm. Fans can expect a powerful live performance from the band founded by John Rzeznik and Robby Takac, whose catalog includes 16 Top 10 radio hits and more than 15 million records sold worldwide. More info
WED: Gay Men’s Social
The Gay Men’s Social takes place this month at V Wine Lounge on Wednesday, July 22 from 5:30–7 pm, offering a welcoming space to connect with community members. Presented by The LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert, this monthly gathering encourages conversation, camaraderie, and new friendships. Sunny 106.5 is the proud media sponsor of this month’s social! More info
THU–SUN: Taste of Summer / Rancho Mirage
Taste of Summer / Rancho Mirage launches this week, starting Thursday, July 23 and running through August 16, kicking off a multi‑week celebration of local dining. 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. More info
THU–SUN: The Wizard of Oz
The Wizard of Oz at Palm Canyon Theatre runs July 17–26, inviting audiences to follow the yellow brick road into a world of magic, adventure, and timeless songs. This cherished musical brings Dorothy and her unforgettable companions to the stage in a story filled with heart, imagination, and classic moments like “Over the Rainbow.” Perfect for dreamers of all ages. More info
THU: Mary VanArsdel
Mary VanArsdel brings Broadway‑caliber storytelling to the Summer Cabaret Series at CVRep on Thursday, July 23 at 7:30 pm. Known for originating standout roles in national tours of A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder and Mary Poppins, Mary offers an evening of music shaped by her extensive stage and screen career. Her performance continues CVRep’s tradition of intimate, one‑night‑only cabaret experiences featuring exceptional vocalists. More info
FRI: Bill Burr Live
Bill Burr performs at The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa on Friday, July 24 at 8 pm, delivering his Grammy‑nominated signature blend of sharp cultural commentary and fearless humor. Known for specials like Paper Tiger and Live at Red Rocks, Burr’s stand‑up is celebrated for its honesty, precision, and ability to provoke laughter while challenging perspectives. More info
ALSO THIS WEEK
- Simply Meditate • Participants learn basics of meditation and how to integrate practice into daily activities at Dharmachakra Kadampa Buddhist Center on Tuesday–Thursday from 12–12:30 pm.
- A Queer Arcana: Art, Magic, and Spirit • Palm Springs Art Museum presents this intergenerational exhibition exploring how magic, spirituality, and esoteric knowledge shape queer culture, open Thursday–Sunday. The show highlights alternative spiritual paths within LGBTQ+ struggles for liberation.
- 2026 Summer Mixer / AFP Desert Communities • Join the Association of Fundraising Professionals — Desert Communities Chapter at Mizell Center on Thursday from 5:30–7 pm. Guests will celebrate 20 years of involvement by viewing a slideshow of member photos. Attendees must register by July 20 at 5 pm.
- Thursday Night – VillageFest • Local valley businesses gather at Villagefest on Palm Canyon Drive to celebrate food, entertainment, art, and shopping on Thursday from 7–10 pm.
- Jesus Sepulveda Comedy Show! • Performers Jesus Sepulveda and a full lineup of all-star comedians visit the Cascade Lounge for a night of stand-up on Friday from 7–8:30 pm. Known for his HBO specials, Jesus shares hilarious takes on family and culture.
- Teacher’s Gone Bad Comedy Show • Seasoned educators trade lesson plans for punchlines on Friday from 8–9:30 pm. This nationally touring comedy act at Spotlight 29 Casino features stories about school politics and burnout.
- Political Implications of Humanism: Wealth Inequality • Participants gather at The LGBTQ Center of the Desert on Saturday from 11 am–12:30 pm to discuss how wealth inequality impacts the flourishing of humanity. The discussion explores potential solutions, such as a wealth tax or democratic socialism.
- Country Nation • Enjoy modern country music hits in a high-energy tribute concert at Desert Hot Springs City Hall on Saturday from 6–10 pm. The block party features food trucks and artisan vendors.
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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.
THIS WEEKEND
SAT: Wanderlust Food Truck Festival at Sunrise Park
The Wanderlust Food Truck Festival brings more than 20 rotating food trucks and vendors to Sunrise Park on Saturday, July 25 from 5–10 pm. Guests can enjoy gourmet street food, sweet treats, and globally inspired flavors in a relaxed outdoor setting designed for gathering and connection. The event is designed to be more than a quick stop—it’s a place to stay, relax, and connect, with lawn games, open seating, and a community‑driven atmosphere. More info
SAT: Dance Ranch / Country Dance Saturdays
Dance Ranch’s Country Dance Saturdays takes place at Step by Step Dance Studio on Saturday, July 25 from 7–9:30 pm, offering two‑step, waltz, swing, line dancing, and more for the LGBTQ+ community and friends. The evening includes a 7 pm lesson followed by social dancing, welcoming participants of all levels. This week features Beginner Waltz with Lise Baadh, adding a fresh skill‑building opportunity. More info
SUN: Desert Sound Sessions
Desert Sound Sessions offers a restorative wellness experience at the Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs Hotel on Sunday, July 26 from 9:45–11 am. The session begins with tea and community gathering before transitioning into a guided sound journey featuring crystal singing bowls. This immersive experience invites you to slow down, soften, and reconnect through a meditative sound journey, encouraging balance, clarity, and deep relaxation inspired by the desert’s spaciousness. 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!
- Hot Spot Bingo with Deven & Ned
Mondays at 7 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs - Summer Cabaret Series at CVRep
Tue. & Thu. July 7–30 - Gay Men’s Social
Wed. July 22 from 5:30–7 pm at V Wine Lounge - The Wizard of Oz – presented by Palm Canyon Theatre
July 17–26 - Taste of Summer Rancho Mirage
July 23–Aug 16 at restaurants throughout Rancho Mirage - The Marvelous Miss Gender featuring Bosco
Tue. July 28 at 8 pm at The Plaza Theatre - Dancing with the Stars Con 2026
July 31–Aug 2 at Acrisure Arena - CVRep 2026/2027 Season
Sat. Aug 1 – Individual Ticket Sales Open - Out on the Mountain
Fri. Aug 21 from 6 pm–midnight at Six Flags Magic Mountain
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
This Week: Get ready for a sun‑soaked week of beats and beach vibes as DJ Galaxy takes Retro Lunch on the road! Broadcasting live at 12 pm PDT from Mexico’s most iconic coastal cities, Galaxy brings a retro Latin twist to his signature dance mix while celebrating his annual birthday cruise. Listen to themed shows from Puerto Vallarta (Mon Jul 20), Mazatlán (Wed Jul 22), and Cabo San Lucas (Fri Jul 24). – On Friday, MODGIRL kicks off the weekend at 7 pm for Women in the Mix at Lola Rose Grand Mezze.
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
- 9 Must‑See Art Galleries to Visit This Summer in Greater Palm Springs
- Weirdest Roadside Attractions to Explore in the California Desert
- Best Places to Stargaze in the California Desert This Summer
- The L-Fund Expands Its Mission with New Chapter at The Center Palm Springs
- 6 Chic Wine Bars to Explore Across the Coachella Valley
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.
