When you receive ads for, say, a new car, it’s because the internet has tracked you through thoughts, speech and searches so that you’re dogged with messages until you buy or they give up.
But sometimes things still come up serendipitously and at random. And you wonder, is the universe trying to tell me something?
And so it is with the word and color pink. This week, I met with the Desert Cancer Foundation, the organizers behind “Paint El Paseo Pink” to help them with their annual Fall event. (We’ll be hosting a team this year.)
But then, on my way back from the meeting, I was hearing a song by Pink! on the radio. And today a headline caught my attention that the saxophonist behind “The Pink Panther” theme from the 1963 film had passed. Pink was clearly on my mind.
Pink is a color that we in the LGBTQ+ community co-opted from Nazi Germany. During the 1930s and 1940s, prisoners in concentration camps were categorized using color-coded inverted cloth triangles on their uniforms. Prisoners wearing the pink triangle were singled out for particularly brutal treatment by camp guards and isolated from other inmates.
In the early 1970s, West German gay rights groups began rediscovering this history—bolstered by the publication of The Men with the Pink Triangle, a survivor’s memoir. ACT UP intentionally reclaimed the badge of shame, transforming the inverted pink triangle paired with the iconic slogan “SILENCE = DEATH”.
But were it not for a shortage of pink fabric, our six color rainbow flag would have been an eight stripe flag including hot pink. Gilbert Baker created the flag in 1978 at the urging of Harvey Milk and others to serve as a symbol for our movement in its early days.
According to Wikipedia, “Gilbert Baker created a nine-stripe version of the flag in March 2017, adding a lavender stripe to symbolize diversity. Baker created the flag in response to the 2016 election of Donald Trump.”
So there’s your history lesson on how pink became “our” color, courtesy of paying attention to what the universe was telling me. Now, you pay attention today. Pink will likely enter your field of vision and psyche too. (P.S. The shirt in my photo above is also pink!)
Brad Fuhr, your K-Gay Desert Guide
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Taste of Summer / Rancho Mirage
Taste of Summer / Rancho Mirage launched this week, 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
Living Out Art Walk 6
Living Out Art Walk 6 transforms Living Out Palm Springs into an expansive three-story art gallery on Sunday, July 26 from 4–6 pm. This art party features more than 450 original works representing over 75 LGBTQ+ artists from the Coachella Valley. Guests are invited to browse the art while enjoying music from the amazing Gennine Francis, who performs starting at 5 pm. Gertie’s Salon and Bar will be open with a cash bar to enhance the festive atmosphere. This free celebration offers a unique opportunity to see local art, have a cocktail, and enjoy entertainment in a vibrant community setting. More info
One Night of Queen
Experience a world‑class rock ’n’ roll spectacle as Gary Mullen & The Works bring One Night of Queen to the Palm Springs Plaza Theatre. This high‑energy tribute concert, happening Sunday, July 26 at 7 pm, channels the electrifying showmanship, theatrical flair, and iconic sound of Queen. With Gary Mullen paying tribute to Freddie Mercury’s iconic vocals and the band recreating the magic of a true stadium‑style performance, audiences can expect to be dancing in the aisles as they relive the unforgettable energy of one of rock’s greatest acts. More info
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
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
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
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
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
ALSO THIS WEEK
- 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.
- 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.
- The Beaver Trilogy • Queer Eyes Cinema Club hosts a free screening of director Trent Harris’s film at Festival Theaters on Saturday from 4–6:30 pm. Following the movie, film scholar Esther Schwartz moderates a live Q&A with Harris.
- Twin Peaks: Fire Walk With Me • Celebrate David Lynch’s masterpiece at Festival Theaters on Saturday from 7–9:15 pm. This one-night event features appearances from original cast members and a live drag performance by Anita Rose, Bellamy Cain, Fey Sunshine Ghost, and Alexander Coutour.
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!
- Hot Spot Bingo with Deven & Ned
Mondays at 7 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs - The Marvelous Miss Gender featuring Bosco
Tue. July 28 at 8 pm at The Plaza Theatre - Summer Cabaret Series at CVRep
Tue. & Thu. July 7–30 - Dancing with the Stars Con 2026
July 31–Aug 2 at Acrisure Arena - CVRep 2026/2027 Season
Sat. Aug 1 – Individual Ticket Sales Open - Clear the Shelters
Sat. & Sun. Aug 15 & 16 from 10 am–5 pm at the Palm Springs Animal Shelter - Out on the Mountain
Fri. Aug 21 from 6 pm–midnight at Six Flags Magic Mountain
Kenneth Edward Piner is a Palm Springs–area REALTOR® with Town Real Estate in Rancho Mirage. He specializes in Rancho Mirage, Palm Springs, Cathedral City, and Palm Desert, serving buyers and sellers across the entire Coachella Valley. As a former part‑time resident of Rancho Mirage who relocated from Washington, D.C., he offers a unique perspective on both seasonal living and making the transition to full‑time life in the valley. Learn more
Palm Springs Breathe Free Sinus & Allergy Centers offers personalized ENT care for sinus, allergy, and breathing concerns throughout the Coachella Valley. Dr. Roy and his wonderful staff look forward to providing top‑tier care, combining clinical expertise with local insight to help patients manage desert‑related sinus and allergy symptoms with lasting comfort and clarity. Learn more
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: DJ Galaxy wraps up his birthday‑cruise broadcasts with a sun‑splashed Retro Lunch live from Cabo San Lucas this Friday at 12 pm PDT. Expect his signature retro dance mix infused with a festive Latin flair — all recorded on location as he sails the coast. Tune in for the perfect blend of vacation vibes and throwback beats. ( If you miss Friday’s show, it repeats on Sunday!) – 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
- Jenks Lake Offers Cool Hiking Escape from the Desert Heat
- PSP Adds Earlier Nonstop Flights to and from Wine Country This Fall
- McCallum Theatre’s Yvonne Bell Previews a Dynamic 2026–2027 Season
- Greater Palm Springs Resort Restaurants and Poolside Bars for Summer Dining
- Indoor Activities in Greater Palm Springs Offer Cool Summer Fun
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.
