Expanding our definition of “community” helps bring us closer. Sunday’s 62nd annual Golf Cart Parade put our team in unfamiliar surroundings – El Paseo. Sure, we go there for the occasional shopping trip, the Food & Wine event and Fashion Week. But many of us tend to be insular and stay in our Palm Springs/Cathedral City bubble.
Here, it’s safe as we mingle among friends and others “like us”. For those into the bar scene, you likely see the same people at the same places week after week. Same goes for our tribes — the leather community, drag community, lesbian community. It’s a bit of a running joke that as you leave a mixer or fundraiser, you’ll run into the same person tomorrow.
The Golf Cart Parade reminded me to seek an expanded view of community. It brought together all ages, genders and affinities to enjoy a day in the sun with family and friends. Over the course of the morning, we talked with hundreds of people who stopped by our booth. Some had made the trip from Palm Springs to Palm Desert, so we saw familiar faces among many new ones.
All of our brands were represented: Sunny 106.5, 92.1 MeTV FM, KGAY 103.1 and Gay Desert Guide. We interchangeably talked with fans of each — and there was no telling who liked one over another. People you’d peg for oldies fans told us how much they loved KGAY, for example.
Rotary International Club sponsored the pancake breakfast. They had set up a large tent called ShelterBox and were raising funds. The tents provide emergency family-sized tents, shelter kits, and disaster relief supplies to people displaced by natural disasters and conflicts. The volunteers were passionate about helping those across the globe with whom they have no connection other than that of being caring humans.
As we set up and walked the street, we greeted each other, had meaningful conversations and even had to read the script promoting the other’s media outlets as we collectively announced the parade at every block. When our mic cable crapped out at the beginning of announcing the parade, there was a helping hand from a competitor.
We assembled in the staging area, and it was media and politicians bringing up the rear. Rep. Dr. Raul Ruiz’s camp was next to Assemblyman Greg Wallis. I spoke with both of them about the political discourse we’re seeing in this campaign cycle. I was interested in their take on the subject and found that party affiliation wasn’t dividing us on the topic. In fact, Wallis’ office has been helping us get out of Meta jail, as we recently found ourselves restricted from posting (much like many other LGBTQ+ companies and groups).
Once in the parade, KGAY’s John Taylor and I marveled at the number of people who cheered as we drove by. Veterans, young and old alike, and yes, familiar faces, too! We were a part of the Coachella Valley community, not just the LGBTQ+ community to which we are accustomed. A good lesson indeed.
Brad Fuhr, your K-Gay Desert Guide
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MON: DBA Speed Networking for DBA Members
Expand your professional network quickly during DBA Speed Networking for DBA Members, hosted at Desert Business Association on Monday, October 26 from 5–7:30 pm. This fast-paced networking event is specifically designed to help participants forge multiple valuable business connections in a single energetic evening. Attendees will rotate through structured, timed interactions to share insights, showcase services, and discover fresh collaborative opportunities across the local business community. Advance registration required. More info
TUE–SUN: & Juliet
Experience a hilarious and empowering theatrical twist on Shakespeare’s legendary love story with & Juliet at McCallum Theatre from Tuesday–Sunday, October 27–November 1. This Broadway sensation asks what might happen if Juliet chose a second chance at life and romance instead of her tragic ending. Packed with pop icon Max Martin’s chart-topping anthems, including “Since U Been Gone” and “Roar,” the romantic comedy delivers a high-energy stage spectacle full of joy and unforgettable musical moments. More info
WED: The Gay Men’s Social
The LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert invites locals and visitors to connect at The Gay Men’s Social, gathering at Hunters Palm Springs on Wednesday, October 28 from 5:30–7 pm. Designed as an easygoing happy hour mixer in the heart of downtown, this free gathering brings gay men together for an evening of fresh conversation, new friendships, and community spirit. Whether arriving solo as a desert newcomer or catching up with longtime friends, come to enjoy lively socializing, warm hospitality, and a fun atmosphere to kick off your mid-week evening out. More info
WED–SUN: The Minutes
A small-town city council meeting turns contentious when a new member questions previous recordkeeping in The Minutes, playing at CV Rep October 28–November 15. Written by Pulitzer Prize winner Tracey Letts, this razor-sharp political satire peels back the polished surface of local democracy to uncover hidden secrets, raw power plays, and chilling truths. Audiences will experience biting humor, unexpected revelations, and a timely examination of civic hypocrisy that resonates deeply with contemporary politics. More info
THU–SUN: Palm Springs Leather Pride: Valhalla
Leather vikings and valkyries gather for Palm Springs Leather Pride: Valhalla, hosting a massive community celebration across Palm Springs from Thursday–Sunday, October 29–November 1. Presented by The Palm Springs Leather Order of the Desert, this multi-day festival highlights kink, fetish, and leather culture with inclusive programming. Hotel Zoso is the registration headquarters. Don’t miss the Hunters welcome party, Festivities include clothing-optional Plunge pool parties at CCBC, BDSM skill labs, pup play, Dark Alley Marketplace, cigar social, BATE party, Eisenhower Health speaker series, and the Mr. Palm Springs Leather 2027 Contest. See our event listing for a detailed schedule: More info
THU–SAT: Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors
Gothic horror meets fast-paced farce in Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors, running at Revolution Stage Company through Saturday, October 31. This gender-bending stage parody blends classic monster lore with Monty Python-esque physical humor. The plot follows a meek British real estate agent who accepts a wealthy new client, only to discover he is an ancient, bloodthirsty vampire. Complications multiply quickly when the creature sets his sights on the agent’s fiancée, forcing three clever women to take charge and halt the bloody mayhem. Our theatre reviewer Stephen Radosh calls the production “A wildly entertaining theatrical experience… a fast-paced, laugh-out-loud comedy.” Read his full review and Get tickets
FRI–SAT: Halloween Palm Springs 2026
Downtown costumed revelers gather for Halloween Palm Springs 2026, taking over the Arenas District on Friday, October 30 and Saturday, October 31 from 4–10 pm. This massive two-night street party offers live music, dancing stages, and a Tito’s Handmade Vodka VIP Lounge. Friday’s lineup features sets by DJ K-Swift, Meaty Beats by Juan, MODGIRL, and DJ Jeffree. Saturday brings a performance from singer-producer MkX, a costume contest at 7:30 pm, and headline sets by legendary R&B group KLYMAXX. Suggested donations support local charities including DAP Health, Palm Springs Gay Men’s Chorus, Greater Palm Springs Pride, and the LGBTQ+ Community Center. More info
FRI: La Bola Negra
Acclaimed international cinema arrives onscreen as La Bola Negra premieres at Festival Theaters on Friday, October 30 at 7 pm. Winner of the Toronto International Film Festival People’s Choice Award and Best Director at Cannes, this sweeping drama stars Guitarricadelafuente and Carlos Gonzáles alongside screen icons Penélope Cruz and Glenn Close. Spanning three distinct eras—Republican Spain in 1932, the Spanish Civil War in 1937, and modern Spain in 2017—the narrative traces interconnected lives centered on three young men whose political and emotional choices echo across generations. More info
This Weekend at The Purple Room
On Friday, October 30 and Saturday, October 31, globe-trotting powerhouse Meghan Murphy presents The Big Red Show! with dinner at 6 pm and show at 8 pm, channeling Jessica Rabbit and Bette Midler with belt-busting vocals from Broadway to Beyoncé. Then on Sunday, November 1, celebrated entertainer Michael Holmes hosts The Judy Show! with dinner at 5 pm and show at 7 pm, delivering hilarious camp parodies of Judy Garland alongside Golden Age icons accompanied by Joel Baker on keys. More info
FRI–SAT: Dog Days: Pups & Pumpkins & Howl-O-Ween
Celebrate spooky season at The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens during a festive two-day Halloween lineup. The festivities kick off with the first-ever Halloween edition of Dog Days: Pups & Pumpkins on Friday, October 30 from 9 am–12 pm, where dogs and their humans can trick-or-treat through the grounds and join a 10 am costume parade led by Mayor Max followed by a costume contest. The fun continues as the annual Howl-O-Ween returns on Saturday, October 31 from 9 am–1 pm, offering pop-up surprises, face painting, fall photo ops, keeper connections, and limited-edition animal trading cards alongside 600+ resident animals.
FRI–SUN: Sordid Lives
Southern eccentricities and family chaos take center stage in Sordid Lives at Palm Canyon Theatre from October 30–November 15. Written by Del Shores, this beloved cult-classic dark comedy follows a colorful Texas clan assembling after the absurdly unexpected death of their family matriarch. As relatives converge, long-held secrets emerge alongside outrageous personalities, sharp hilarity, and heartfelt reflections on acceptance and redemption. More info
SAT: The B-52s & DEVO: Cosmic De-Evolution Tour
Two iconic new-wave powerhouses join forces for a spectacular Halloween concert when The B-52s & DEVO: Cosmic De-Evolution Tour hits Acrisure Arena on Saturday, October 31 at 7 pm. Featuring special guest DJ Cummerbund providing signature mashups, this art-driven double bill brings legendary hits, theatrical visual production, and retro energy to the desert. Fans can celebrate Halloween night with boundary-pushing music and non-stop dancing during this once-in-a-generation arena show. More info
SAT: Ladies of Rock Festival
Groundbreaking female rockers take the stage during Ladies of Rock Festival, performing at The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa on Saturday, October 31 from 6–10 pm. Doors open at 5 pm as platinum guitarist Orianthi kicks off the evening, followed by glam metal favorites Vixen and former Runaways lead guitarist Lita Ford. More info
SAT: Notes of the Living Dead
Spooktacular musical comedy comes alive in Notes of the Living Dead, staged at Palm Springs Cultural Center on Saturday, October 31 for a 3 pm matinee and a 7 pm evening performance. Starring fan-favorite Billy L’Amour alongside The Love Notes and a live backing band, this high-energy Halloween cabaret combines spine-tingling vocals, campy humor, and dazzling costumes. The performance features rock anthems, Broadway classics, and horror-inspired tunes, with guests invited to wear their favorite Halloween attire. More info
SUN: Pride: ’26 Edition
Explore fine art interpretations of the male form at Pride: ’26 Edition, displaying at Rubine Red Gallery from November 1–15. Featuring four interconnected collections by artist Troy Schooneman, the exhibition combines classical references, photography, constructed imagery, and imagined artifacts. Visitors will experience a contemporary lens on fine art nudes that examines memory, identity, and physical aesthetics across centuries of artistic tradition. More info
SUN: Scoop Ice Cream Festival
Sweet treats meet community fundraising as the 2nd Annual Scoop Ice Cream Festival gathers at Palm Springs Downtown Park on Sunday, November 1 from 12–4 pm. Local artisans, gelaterias, and paleta makers from across the Coachella Valley will serve signature frozen creations throughout the afternoon. All proceeds from the annual gathering directly benefit the LGBTQ Center’s Community Food Bank, making it a delicious way to give back to neighbors in need while enjoying top-tier local desserts. More info
SUN: Burgers, Boys & Brews Sunday BBQ
Wrap up the weekend with a sizzling poolside-style cookout during Burgers, Boys & Brews Sunday BBQ, hosted at The Social Cafe & Lounge on Sunday, November 1 from 2:30–4:30 pm. This all-inclusive Sunday afternoon gathering combines backyard grill favorites with upbeat music and high-energy live male entertainment. Guests can feast on hot-off-the-grill burgers, dogs, and savory sides while sipping bottomless draft beers and bottomless mimosas. Designed as the ultimate social brunch party, the weekly event offers a fun, welcoming atmosphere for friends to eat, drink, and socialize before the new work week begins. More info
- Hot Spot Bingo with Deven and Ned • Popular hosts Deven and Ned bring high-energy comedy, music, and digital gameplay to Cascade Lounge at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs on Monday from 7–8:30 pm.
- Joy’n Us • VR filmmaker Travis Hutchison presents a multimedia showcase celebrating 1970s gay male life from photographer Frank Diernhammer‘s archive at Materias Primas Thursday–Monday through November 8. The exhibition features vintage prints, silver gelatin portraits, rare 8mm film, and historical media.
- Jeopardy! Bar League • Trivia enthusiasts test their knowledge during the official quiz show competition at The Palm Springs Surf Club on Wednesday from 7–9 pm.
- Where Were You in 1976? Bicentennial Cinema: Network • Film lovers gather for a restored big-screen presentation of director Sidney Lumet’s satirical masterpiece Network at Palm Springs Cultural Center on Thursday from 6–9 pm. The evening includes a pre-show by Deserted Films.
- VillageFest • Local valley artisans, food vendors, and entertainers line the street along Palm Canyon Drive on Thursday from 6–10 pm.
- Dance Ranch / Country Dance Saturdays • Instructor Lise Baadh leads a beginner Two-Step lesson during a lively evening of country-western dancing at Step by Step Dance Studio on Saturday from 7–9:30 pm. Dancers of all skill levels can participate in two-step, waltz, shadow, swing, and line dances throughout the night.
- Unbuttoned: A Boylesque Social Experience • Star performer Michael Silas delivers an intimate boylesque showcase blending dance, personal storytelling, and comedy at The Social Cafe & Lounge on Saturday from 7–8:30 pm.
- Halloween Weekend at Toucans * Toucans Tiki Lounge has you covered for Halloween weekend, including Saturday, October 31: 80s vs 90s Halloween Party with DJ ModGirl, costume contest and dancing all night!
- Día de los Muertos Celebration • Community members gather to honor ancestral traditions during a festive cultural event at Demuth Community Center on Sunday from 10 am–1 pm. The seasonal gathering features traditional decorations, vibrant music, and family-friendly activities celebrating life and memory.
- Charged Stillness Exhibition • 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.
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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
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 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!
- & Juliet
Oct 27–Nov 1 at McCallum Theatre - The Minutes
Oct 28–Nov 15 at CVRep - PS Leather Pride | 2026 Valhalla
Oct 29–Nov 1 at Hotel Zoso, CCBC, Dick’s, The Eagle, Toolshed - Halloween Palm Springs 2026
Fri. & Sat. Oct 30 & 31 in the Arenas District - La Bola Negra
Starting Oct 30 at Festival Theaters - Halloween Weekend at Toucan’s Tiki Lounge
Fri. & Sat. Oct 30 & 31 - Notes of the Living Dead with Billy L’Amour & The Love Notes
Sat. Oct 31 at 3 pm & 7 pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center - Scoop Ice Cream Festival
Sun. Nov 1 from 12–4 pm at Downtown Palm Springs Park - Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors
Oct 15–31 at Revolution Stage Company - Burgers, Boys & Brews Sunday BBQ
Sundays from 2:30–4:30 pm at The Social Cafe & Lounge - October at The Purple Room
Live Entertainment Tue-Thu, Dinner Shows Fri–Sun - October at the McCallum Theatre
Diverse world-class Broadway productions, music, dance, and comedy. - Taste & Sounds of Cathedral City: Fall Edition
Nov 3, 10, 17, 24 and Dec 1 at Cathedral City Community Amphitheater - Arenas District Walkabout — Palm Springs Pride 2026 Kickoff
Thu. Nov 5 at 6 pm in the Arenas District - Rita Moreno
Thu. Nov 5 at 7 pm at the McCallum Theatre - Magic Rocks! – Illusionist Leon Etienne
Thu. Nov 5 at 8 pm at The Show - BARE – An Artistic Celebration of the Male Body
Thu. Nov 5 at 7:30 pm at the Plaza Theatre - 25th HRC Palm Springs Coachella Valley Garden Party
Sat. Nov 7 from 1:30–4:30 pm at the Dinah Shore Estate - Coachella Valley Home Show
Fri.–Sun. Nov 13–15 at Riverside County Fairgrounds - Perez Art District: 4th Friday and 2nd Saturday Art Walk
Sat. Nov 14 from 11 am–3 pm - 5th Annual Pride on the Page Book Festival
Sat. Nov 14 from 10 am–pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center - Cathedral City Hot Air Balloon Festival
Nov 20–22 in Cathedral City and Rancho Mirage - Palm Springs Desert Winds Fall Concert
Sun. Nov 22 at 3 pm at the McCallum Theatre
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: DJ Galaxy kicks things off on Thursday, October 29 at Divas on the Dance Floor Halloween Show at Costume Contest at V Wine Lounge, then returns on Friday, October 30 for Fur Fridays at Hunters Nightclub as part of the Palm Springs Halloween Kick-Off. MODGIRL will be spinning both Friday and Saturday nights at Halloween Palm Springs beginning at 7 pm, plus the Cosmic De-Evolution Tour pre-party at Acrisure Arena on Saturday at 5 pm before the B-52’s and Devo take the stage. Then on Sunday at 1 pm, she’s at the SCOOP Palm Springs ice cream celebration at Downtown Palm Springs Park.
WIN TICKETS courtesy of KGAY 103.1 to a special advance screening of Club Kid on Thursday, November 5 at 7 pm at Festival Theaters. Presented in partnership with Festival Theaters and A24, this invitation-only event gives local movie lovers an exclusive early look at Jordan Firstman’s acclaimed feature debut before its wider release. Mixing sharp comedy, queer nightlife, and an unexpected journey into fatherhood, Club Kid has already earned attention with screenings at Cannes and the New York Film Festival. Enter to WIN on the KGAY Contest Page
We would be truly honored by your nomination in the Desert Sun’s Best of Desert Community’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!
Nomination round ends October 29: Nominate Today
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
We would be honored if you nominated Sunny in the Desert Sun’s Best of Desert Community’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! Nomination round ends October 29: Nominate Today
Join the Sunny 106.5 Lucky Duck Club and get access to secret contests, sweet offers, surprises and more! This week, you can WIN TICKETS to Andy Grammer at the McCallum Theatre on Monday, November 30 at 7 pm! Lucky Duck 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
MeTV 92.1 FM
MeTV FM is officially back on the Coachella Valley dial — and there’s never been a better time to tune in. Broadcasting from Palm Springs, 92.1 MeTV FM delivers a “radio gold mine” of timeless, memorable music you won’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 ’50s through the ’80s, plus themed shows and beloved classics, this one‑of‑a‑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.
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.
