Gay Desert Guide Week of Oct 12 2026
Brad Fuhr

We all have role models. These can be our parents, a celebrity, a fictional character, or even a boss we had. They have all contributed to shaping who we are today.

Mine was a bawdy great aunt who smoked Camel no filters, drank Pabst Blue Ribbon beer and pioneered in journalism. “Aunt Gin”, as I first knew her, started her newspaper career at the age of 12. I started at age 15 at the same hometown newspaper.

She worked summers waiting tables in a beautiful resort town, Harbor Springs, Michigan, then joined the local paper and became society editor. I spent four formative years in Harbor Springs starting a radio station there in the late 1980s. (And if you read my coming out blog on Friday, you know that’s where I did so.)

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In 1952, Virginia Baird became women’s editor of the Lansing State Journal, a post she would hold for a decade. She made it more than just the society page, writing about women’s issues and added food editor to what became one of the largest food sections in the nation. She went on to work for Michigan State University until her retirement.

But you could teach an old dog new tricks. At her MSU job, she needed the skills to write for radio. I was making my way through Central Michigan University’s broadcasting and journalism programs. So I was able to show her how to write radio PSA’s for the ear.

I lived with her for a time when my radio career took me to Lansing to run a rock radio station in the mid 80s. While my 6’3″ frame endured sleeping on the most uncomfortable twin bed ever, it was a year I will always treasure.

Baird was named Michigan Press Women’s Woman ofย  Achievement in 1977 and in 1995
the Michigan Journalism Hall of Fame recognized her with a Special Service Award for her support ofย  Michigan Journalism.

The parallels continue to this day. Last week it was announced that I’ll be inducted into the Coachella Valley Journalism Foundation’s Media Hall of Fame in early 2027 for my work in starting Gay Desert Guide and now, KGAY Radio. I guess it’s that time in my career when recognition starts to come my way.

This venture has been the most rewarding of all of my “jobs” that preceded. I think it’s because of the impact that our media properties have made locally and globally. Thanks to the internet and streaming, our information and entertainment can have a global audience. But the real reward is those of you whom I see on the street or receive a message from telling us how much the work is appreciated. We’ll keep doing it!

I’m thrilled to be joining my good friend, CV Independent Publisher Jimmy Boegle, who was inducted last year. I look forward to many more years before, like my Aunt Gin, I decide to hang up my keyboard.

Brad Fuhr, your K-Gay Desert Guide

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This Week in Hashtag #ILGPS

TUE: Ingrid Michaelson’s Cozy Fall Trio Tour

Ingrid Michaelson

Acclaimed singer-songwriter Ingrid Michaelson brings her warm, intimate acoustic sound to the Palm Springs Plaza Theatre for an evening of live music. On Tuesday, October 13 from 7โ€“10 pm, fans can experience her heartfelt lyrics, rich melodies, and signature charm as she performs classic hits alongside autumn-inspired trio arrangements. More info


TUE-SUN: Native Painting, Ritual and Resilience in the 20th Century

Narciso Abeyta

The Agua Caliente Cultural Museum has unveiled A Beauty That Endures, a sweeping new exhibition curated by Tony Abeyta (Dinรฉ/Navajo) featuring more than 50 masterworks of 20thโ€‘century American Indian painting. Spanning tribal traditions and artistic lineages shaped by boarding schools and mission institutions, the show highlights the resilience, innovation, and cultural continuity expressed through Native painters across the century. Running through May 30, 2027, this landmark exhibition offers a powerful look at ritual, identity, and the enduring influence of Native art in America. More info


THUโ€“SUN: Modernism Week โ€“ October

Modernism Week 2026

Midcentury architecture and design take center stage as Modernism Week โ€“ October returns from Thursdayโ€“Sunday, October 15โ€“18 with an expansive lineup featuring over 50 tours, talks, parties, and design-driven experiences. Highlights of this four-day festival include the Fall Dining Series, Modernism Week After Dark social events, the Palm Springs Modernism Show Preview Party, and premier double-decker architectural bus tours. Attendees can also enjoy exclusive home tours, a new Palm Springs Aerial Tramway excursion, and a celebrity homes tour hosted by Bella da Ball. Many activities are free or low-cost, offering midcentury enthusiasts endless opportunities to celebrate iconic desert style at various venues across Palm Springs. More info


THU: KGAY Out & About at Nola at Escena

Nola at Escena

On Thursday, October 15 from 4โ€“6 pm, our morning host John Taylor broadcasts KGAY Out and About live from Nola at Escena. Guests can explore Toll Brothers’ new luxury 55+ community in the Escena neighborhood. Blending desert-modern aesthetics with mid-century architectural influences, these single-story residences feature modern open-concept layouts, attached two-car garages, and included private pools framed by expansive mountain views. More info


THU: Bicentennial Cinema: Nashville

Nashville

Take a nostalgic journey back to America’s bicentennial era with a classic film screening presented by Deserted Films and the Palm Springs Public Library. On Thursday, October 15 at 6 pm, head to the Palm Springs Cultural Center for Robert Altman’s acclaimed ensemble drama, Nashville. The evening begins with a half-hour 1976-themed pre-show featuring home movies, local history, archival clips, and more. Following the pre-show, enjoy Altman’s brilliant satirical masterpiece starring Lily Tomlin, Ned Beatty, Karen Black, Ronee Blakley, Keith Carradine, Shelley Duvall, Jeff Goldblum, and Barbara Harris. More info


OPENS THU: Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors

Dracula Comedy Terrors

Get ready for a hilarious, bloodthirsty night of entertainment as Revolution Stage Company kicks off its fourth season with Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors. Running October 15โ€“31, this fast-paced, 90-minute gender-bending stage farce combines gothic horror with Python-esque humor. The story follows a meek British realtor who takes on a terrifying vampire client whose deep pockets are irresistible and whose attraction to his fiancรฉe is concerning. Three women must navigate the chaos to stop the carnage in this dangerously sexy production. More info


FRIโ€“SUN: Palm Springs Modernism Show

Modernism Show 2026 Collage

Design lovers and collectors can discover extraordinary midcentury treasures at the Palm Springs Modernism Show, held from Fridayโ€“Sunday, October 16โ€“18 at the Palm Springs Convention Center. This premier show brings together an exceptional lineup of top-tier national and international exhibitors offering the finest midcentury and modern designs all under one roof. Attendees can browse rare vintage furniture, decorative arts, lighting, and contemporary pieces during this highlight of Modernism Week October activities. More info


FRI: 2026 Center Stage 2026

Center Stage 2026

Celebrate unity and community impact at The Center’s 2026 Center Stage gala on Friday, October 16 from 5:30โ€“10 pm at the Palm Springs Air Museum. This powerful evening supports the essential, life-saving work of the Coachella Valley LGBTQ+ Community Center, with 100% of proceeds directly funding local programs. The event proudly honors the founders of The L-Fundโ€”Betty Berrysmith, Barbara Carpenter, Ruth Debra, Sharon Siegel, and Kate Ullmanโ€”with the 2026 Legacy Award for their groundbreaking dedication to empowering cisgender, transgender, and queer lesbians. Gather for an inspiring night of advocacy and belonging. More info


THUโ€“SUN: Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat

Joseph Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat runs October 9โ€“18 at Palm Canyon Theatre, bringing Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Riceโ€™s beloved musical to life with humor, heart, and choreography. This familyโ€‘friendly production celebrates resilience, forgiveness, and the power of dreams through colorful characters and a score that has charmed audiences for decades. More info


FRIโ€“SUN: Cat on a Hot Tin Roof

Cat on a Hot Tin Roof

Cat on a Hot Tin Roof runs October 9โ€“24, presented by THE BENT. Tennessee Williamsโ€™ Pulitzer Prizeโ€‘winning masterpiece holds deep significance for LGBTQ+ audiences, exploring repressed homosexuality, internalized homophobia, and the destructive nature of the closet. This production highlights the hidden desire between Brick and Skipper, offering a fresh interpretation of Williamsโ€™ groundbreaking work. More info


FRI: Desert X Pops Up

Nancy Nicholas
Nancy Magoon & Nicholas Galanin

Join Desert X for the opening session of the Parker Sessions series on Friday, October 16 from 6:30โ€“8:30 pm at Parker Palm Springs. The evening features board member and contemporary artist Nicholas Galanin in conversation with art collector Nancy Magoon, moderated by Artforum editor Bryan Barcena. Following the discussion, Nicholas Galanin performs live with his indie pop and electronic project, Ya Tseen, blending indigenous perspectives with contemporary soundscapes. Ticket proceeds benefit Desert X’s upcoming 10th anniversary celebration. Optional VIP tickets include an exclusive dinner hosted by leadership. More info


FRI: Shoshana Bean

Shoshana Bean

Broadway star and Tony and Grammy Award winner Shoshana Bean graces the stage at McCallum Theatre on Friday, October 16 at 8 pm. Known for powerhouse roles in Broadway hits like Wicked, Hell’s Kitchen, Mr. Saturday Night, and Waitress, she brings her astounding vocal range and chart-topping artistry to Palm Desert. Audiences will be treated to a sensational concert featuring Broadway classics, jazz favorites, and soulful melodies from her Billboard #1 albums. More info


FRI: Chris Isaak

Chris Isaak

Singer, songwriter, and actor Chris Isaak brings his signature blend of rock โ€™nโ€™ roll, smooth romance, and cinematic style to Rancho Mirage on Friday, October 16 at 8 pm. Performing at The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa, the GRAMMY-nominated icon delivers a hit-filled set featuring multi-platinum favorites like “Wicked Game” alongside timeless tracks from his four-decade career. More info


FRIโ€“SUN: Black Market Trust & Elvis: The Early Years

Black Market Trust
Black Market Trust

Enjoy world-class dining and live entertainment from Fridayโ€“Sunday, October 16โ€“18 at The Purple Room Supper Club. On Friday and Saturday, October 16โ€“17, vocal jazz quintet Black Market Trust returns with their high-energy blend of American crooner classics and Gypsy jazz guitar. Then on Sunday, October 18, it’s the return of Elvis: The Early Years, featuring Scot Bruce and his award-winning band. More info


SAT: Palm Springs Pride Walk

Palm Springs Pride Walk

Show your pride and support community equality at the Palm Springs Pride Walk on Saturday, October 17. Gathering in the historic Arenas District with an official kickoff at 8:30 am, this inspiring community walk leads participants through downtown Palm Springs before returning to Arenas Road for a festive celebration with music, food, and drinks. The annual walk champions LGBTQ+ visibility, equity, and human rights while helping keep the upcoming November Pride Festival free and accessible to all. More info


SAT: Casual Concours โ€“ Swinging 60s on Route 66

Casual Concours Swinging 60s

Automotive enthusiasts can admire more than 170 classic automobiles at the 38th annual Casual Concours โ€“ Swinging 60s on Route 66 on Saturday, October 17 from 9 amโ€“2 pm. Hosted by Great Autos of Yesteryear at Mission Hills Country Club, this year’s charity car show celebrates iconic 1960s vehicles and the 100th anniversary of Route 66. Guests can view vintage models ranging from the 1930s through the 2000s, enjoy free parking, and purchase lunch at the clubhouse. Proceeds benefit The LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert and Safe Schools Desert Cities. More info


SATโ€“SUN: Randy Rainbow

Randy Rainbow

Viral satirist and Emmy-nominated comedian Randy Rainbow brings his razor-sharp musical comedy to Palm Desert on Saturday, October 17 at 8 pm and Sunday, October 18 at 7 pm. Performing live at McCallum Theatre, Rainbow skewers current events, pop culture, and politics through glittering Broadway-style song parodies. Known worldwide for his hit web series and best-selling albums featuring collaborations with Marc Shaiman and Alan Menken, his show blends musical theater flair with hilarious stand-up comedy. More info


SAT: Bea Arthur: The Documentary โ€“ “I’ve Done Everything Except Porn”

Bea Arthur Documentary

Discover the remarkable life and career of a television and stage legend during a special encore film screening at the Palm Springs Cultural Center on Saturday, October 17 at 7 pm. Bea Arthur: The Documentary โ€“ “I’ve Done Everything Except Porn” features a never-before-seen interview with Bea Arthur herself, offering an intimate self-portrait alongside reflections from famous friends and colleagues. Produced by Emmy winner Dan Watt and Tony winner Daryl Roth, the film chronicles her journey from Broadway stardom in Mame to iconic television roles in Maude and The Golden Girls, while honoring her fierce LGBTQ+ advocacy. More info


SAT: Dolly โ€“ The Legacy Tour

Dolly Legacy Tour

Enjoy an evening of sparkling country music, humor, and classic hits when Dolly โ€“ The Legacy Tour comes to Rancho Mirage on Saturday, October 17 from 8โ€“10 pm. Taking the stage at The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa Rancho Mirage, acclaimed tribute artist Rhonda Medina captures the charm, warmth, and iconic vocals of Dolly Parton. With three decades of professional performance experience, Medina delivers heartfelt renditions of country favorites. Admission to this special tribute performance is completely free with general admission seating available on a first-come, first-served basis. More info


SUN: Journey On: Songs of Travel & Self Discovery

Bill Spera Journey On

Embark on an inspiring musical voyage with Journey On: Songs of Travel & Self Discovery on Sunday, October 18 from 3โ€“4:30 pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center. Cabaret vocalist Bill Spera hosts an intimate afternoon concert exploring the thrill of new adventures and personal growth through song. He is joined by special guests Kevin Casey, Keith M. Cornell, Mark Duebner, Kim Schroeder Long, and Gene Strange, with musical direction by Chip Prince, Dominique Torres on drums, and Denise Briese on bass. More info


SUN: 10,000 Maniacs

10k Maniacs

Legendary alternative rock group 10,000 Maniacs takes the stage on Sunday, October 18 from 7โ€“10 pm for a career-spanning concert at the Palm Springs Plaza Theatre. The band celebrates 45 years of poetic songwriting, lush melodies, and folk-rock classics including “These Are Days,” “Like the Weather,” and “Because the Night.” Lead singer Mary Ramsey performs alongside founding members Jerome Augustyniak, John Lombardo, Dennis Drew, and Steven Gustafson, plus guitarist Ben Medina. More info


Burgers, Boys & Brews Sunday BBQ

Burgers Boys Brews

Every Sunday from 2:30โ€“4:30 pm, The Social Cafe & Lounge hosts Burgers, Boys & Brews, a backyardโ€‘style cookout featuring freshโ€‘grilled burgers, hot dogs, sides, bottomless mimosas, bottomless draft beer, and live male entertainment. Come for great music, cold drinks, and a lively crowd ready for a fun, allโ€‘inclusive brunch experience. More info


Itโ€™s Final Round Voting Time โ€” Best of CV

Best of Coachella Valley 2026-2027 Logo

CV Independentโ€™s Best of Coachella Valley 2026โ€“2027 final voting round is now underway, and this is your chance to help crown the winners across the valleyโ€™s mostโ€‘loved radio stations, personalities, DJs (and many more categories). Thank you for showing us the love already with a strong nomination phase! Our finalists include KGAYโ€ฏ103.1 and Sunnyโ€ฏ106.5 for Best Radio Station; John Taylor, E.J. Tyler and Patrick Evans for Best Local Radio Personality; and the dynamic DJ trio โ€” DJ Galaxy, DJ Eric Ornelas, and MODGIRL โ€” for Best Local DJ. Voting continues through Friday, October 23, so cast your vote and help celebrate your favorites in this yearโ€™s Best of Coachella Valley! Vote Today


  • Hot Spot Bingo โ€ข Comedians Deven and Ned host a lively digital bingo party filled with music, humor, and prizes on Monday from 7โ€“8:30 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs.
  • Introduction to Energy Healing โ€ข Facilitator Joey Carman teaches hands-on energy channeling, Chi Kung exercises, brain balancing, and chelation on Wednesday at 10 am at The LGBTQ Community Center.
  • Jeopardy! Bar League โ€ข Trivia enthusiasts can compete in official bar trivia inspired by America’s Favorite Quiz Showยฎ on Wednesday from 7โ€“9 pm at The Palm Springs Surf Club.
  • Sunnylands Tour Tickets โ€ข Visitors can secure online tickets for guided historic estate walks on Thursday from 9โ€“10 am at Sunnylands Center & Gardens. Tour blocks release monthly.
  • Thursday Night – VillageFest โ€ข Local merchants, artisans, and entertainers gather along Palm Canyon Drive for a vibrant street fair on Thursday from 6โ€“10 pm.
  • Aรญda Cuevas โ€ข Mariachi icon Aรญda Cuevas performs timeless Mexican hits accompanied by a world-renowned ensemble on Thursday from 7โ€“9 pm at McCallum Theatre.
  • Second Annual La Quinta Fall Festival โ€ข Families can celebrate autumn with live music, children’s activities, face painting, and local food trucks on Friday from 4:30โ€“8:30 pm at La Quinta Park.
  • 1966! Time Capsule – Music Variety Show โ€ข Vocalist Tod Macofsky and The Gand Band perform a sing-along musical showcase on Friday from 7โ€“8:30 pm at Spirit Animal at Hotel Zoso.
  • Palm Springs Tram Road Challenge โ€ข Runners and walkers tackle a 3.7-mile course ascending nearly 2,000 vertical feet on Saturday at Palm Springs Aerial Tramway.
  • Medicare Round Table โ€ข Insurance broker Charise Karjala leads an educational seminar answering health coverage questions on Saturday from 1โ€“2:30 pm at her office in Palm Desert.
  • Unbuttoned: A Boylesque Social Experience โ€ข Dancer Michael Silas, former performer for Lady Gaga, presents a bold boylesque show blending dance, storytelling, and comedy on Saturday from 7โ€“8:30 pm at The Social Cafe & Lounge.
  • Dance Ranch / Country Dance Saturdays โ€ข Dancers can enjoy two-step, waltz, swing, and line dancing on Saturday from 7โ€“9:30 pm at Step by Step Dance Studio. The social evening begins with a Beginner Waltz lesson taught by Alicia Henneck.
  • Charged Stillness Exhibition โ€ข Local artist Tina Roy showcases vivid paintings reflecting the beauty, drama, and delicate ecosystems of the wild desert from through October 29 at Rubine Red Gallery.
  • A Queer Arcana: Art, Magic, and Spirit โ€ข An intergenerational group of artists explores esoteric knowledge, witchcraft, and spiritual traditions in a compelling exhibit on view through October 18 at Palm Springs Art Museum.

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Lets Puck

SAY KGAY to Save on Rivalry Merch

Ride the Heated Rivalry wave with a fresh batch of themed Tโ€‘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


Visitor Map & Guide – FREE!

Map Guide Pride 2026

Check out the latest edition of the Kโ€‘Gay Desert Guide Visitor Map & Guide! To help you find everything you need as a visitor or local, we feature the top places to Dine & Sip, Shop, find Attractions, Massage & Spa, Nightlife, Drag Shows, and more, all curated to make exploring the valley even easier. Look for the latest edition at 300+ 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!


KGAY 103.1 FM

The KGAY 103.1 Retro Lunch airs Monday through Friday from noonโ€“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 amโ€“4 pm. Perfect party music! The KGAY Sunday Tea Dance with MODGIRL airs every Sunday from 4โ€“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

๐ŸŽง This Weekend: DJ Galaxy brings his signature funโ€‘forward vibe to Fur Fridays at Hunters Nightclub on Friday, Oct 16 from 4โ€“9 pm, spins at the Great Autos Casual Concours at Mission Hills on Saturday, Oct 17, and closes the weekend strong at Oscarโ€™s World Famous Tโ€‘Dance on Sunday, Oct 18 from 3โ€“7 pm. Meanwhile, MODGIRL kicks things off on Friday, Oct 16 at 8 pm with Friday Night Fever in the Amigo Room at the ACE Hotel, then keeps the momentum going on Saturday, Oct 17 at 9 pm for Opening Night at Libation Room in Palm Desert.

Desert Sun Best of Desert

We would be truly honored by your nomination in the Desert Sun’s Best of Desert Communityโ€™s Choice Awards!  
Radio Station-Local: KGAY 103.1
Radio Personality/Show: John Taylor
DJ-Event/Wedding: DJ Galaxy, Eric Ornelas, or MODGIRL
Thank you for your consideration! Nominate Today

KGAY Header V3

Sunny 106.5 FM

Sunny 1065 Logo Ducky

Take the sunshine indoors with the Sunny 106.5 Alexa skill โ€” just tell Alexa to โ€œenable Sunny Palm Springs Radio skillโ€ and the brightest variety will be one voice command away at home or at work. Sunny 106.5 is the Coachella Valleyโ€™s new home for feelโ€‘good hits from the โ€™90s, 2000s, and beyond, blending familiar favorites with local updates and weekday weather from Patrick Evans. Play Sunny 106.5 Online

Desert Sun Best of Desert

We would be honored if you nominated Sunny in the Desert Sun’s Best of Desert Communityโ€™s Choice Awards!  (Radio Station-Local: Sunny 106.5 FM and Radio Personality/Show, either EJ Tyler or Patrick Evans) Thank you for your consideration! Nominate Today

Lucky Duck - 1

Join the Sunnyโ€ฏ106.5 Lucky Duck Club and get access to secret contests, sweet offers, surprises and more! Lucky Duck Members get insider perks and first dibs on exciting station events โ€” itโ€™s free, easy, and full of rewards for Sunny listeners. ๐Ÿ‘‰โ€ฏSign up now


MeTV 92.1 FM

MeTV 92.1 FM Car Radio Dial

MeTV FM is officially back on the Coachella Valley dial โ€” and thereโ€™s never been a better time to tune in. Broadcasting from Palm Springs, 92.1 MeTV FM delivers a โ€œradio gold mineโ€ of timeless, memorable music you wonโ€™t hear anywhere else: over 3,500 songs, more than 350 played every day with no repeats. From deep tracks to softer favorites spanning the โ€™50s through the โ€™80s, plus themed shows and beloved classics, this oneโ€‘ofโ€‘aโ€‘kind format is ready to soundtrack your day.

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 2026-27 Coachella Valley Calendar of Events.

Colorful logo of KGAY Palm Springs with the text 'KGAY 103.1' displayed prominently in white font over a gradient background.

Listen to KGAY over the air, stream it [here], or listen on iHeart Radio with Alexa or Siri by saying โ€œPlay K-G-A-Yโ€ John Taylor is on mornings 6โ€“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 amโ€“4 pm, followed by MODGIRL spinning the KGAY Sunday Tea Dance from 4โ€“6 pm.

This Way Out Logo

This Way Out, the awardโ€‘winning weekly LGBTQ radio program, airs every Sunday at 6:30 a.m. on KGAY 103.1 and is also available onโ€‘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.