Los Angeles was an amazing experience for me. Arriving in 2005, I was hired to manage the sales and operations for KTLK, the progressive talk station owned by Clear Channel (Now IHeartMedia). During my tenure, I was introduced to a number of organizations whom we helped promote and market with our airwaves.
One of those was GMCLA, The Gay Men’s Chorus of Los Angeles. Having met then-Executive Director Hywel Sims, we struck a friendship and I was invited to join the board of directors a year later. It was one of the most rewarding experiences of my public service life.
GMCLA traveled to Amsterdam last week for the just-concluded World Pride celebration. I received their “love letters from Europe” email yesterday with photos that made me long to have been there and experience the moments.
Not only did they perform at the world-famous Concertgebouw, GMCLA was one of eight choruses performing in the “Queer Voices Unite” Choral Festival. Along the way, they did street corner (and canal corner) pop-ups.
Music has a universal healing power. Choruses like GMCLA and PSGMC bring audiences together for celebration and healing, but it does so much more for those who lend their voices and talents to share with the world.
My time leading the GMCLA board of directors were most rewarding when I sat in the audience and watched the magic happen. My eyes always teared up, but then I’d have moments of pure joy as a counterpoint.
The fact that GMCLA was able to go “across the pond” for this and other performances shows that our visibility as LGBTQ+ citizens is important and needed. The chorus continues their tour this weekend in London. And oh, how I wish I was there to experience it. But I take great pride in knowing that I had a small hand in their ongoing mission to expose new communities to their message of equality around the world.
Brad Fuhr, your K-Gay Desert Guide
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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 from Aug 14–16. More info
Premiere Screenings of Some Kind of Wonderful
The LGBTQ+ drama series Some Kind of Wonderful makes its 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
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
Nominations Round Open: Best of Coachella Valley
CV Independent’s Best of Coachella Valley 2026–2027 nomination round is officially open, and now’s the moment to spotlight the local voices, stations, and personalities you love most. This early round determines who advances to the final ballot, so every nomination truly counts. Our contenders this year include KGAY 103.1, Sunny 106.5, and MeTV FM 92.1 for Best Radio Station; John Taylor, E.J. Tyler, Patrick Evans, and Chris Shebel for Best Local Radio Personality; and our powerhouse DJ trio — DJ Galaxy, DJ Eric Ornelas, and MODGIRL — for Best Local DJ. Nominations are open through Friday, August 28, so cast your picks and lift your favorites into the spotlight! Nominate Today
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
ALSO THIS WEEK
- 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.
- 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.
Join the Oasis Insiders to get our twice-weekly newsletter with our Top Things to Do!
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!
- Splash House 2026
Aug 7–9 and Aug 14–16 at The Renaissance, Saguaro, Hilton, & Air Museum - Some Kind of Wonderful Premiere Screenings
Sat. Aug 8 at 4:30 pm and 7 pm - Pop-Up Drag Brunch
Sat. Aug 8 & 15 at 10 am at Saffron Restaurant & Lounge - CVRep 2026/2027 Season – Tickets on Sale Now
Oct 28–Mar 21 - Hot Spot Bingo with Deven & Ned
Mondays at 7 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs - 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 - Palm Springs Women’s Jazz Festival / 2026 Blues at the Woodstock
Sep 4–5 at Hotel Zoso - 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
This Weekend: Hunters Nightclub turns up the summer heat with DJ Galaxy returning to take over Fur Friday this Friday, August 7 from 4–9 pm with his signature sound and crowd‑moving style. The party doesn’t stop there—DJ Ray Rhodes, a longtime friend of KGAY, jumps in at 9 pm to keep the dance floor alive well into the night.
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
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.
- Chief Andy & Cathy Mills Honored with The Center’s Inaugural Allies Award
- 12 Local Favorites for Beating the Summer Heat in Greater Palm Springs
- Palm Springs International Airport Launches Accessible, Modernized Website
- Blue Zones Project, The Center & Aziz Farms Launch Fresh‑Produce Partnership in Palm Springs
- 9 Coachella Valley Venues for Exceptional Live Music
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.
