Brad’s Blog: Gay Desert Guide Weekend Oct 23-25, 2026

Vote Early, Vote Often. That phrase was bandied about from the days of Chicago politics. The catchphrase ironically encourages voting multiple times under the guise of promoting voter participation. It gained widespread popularity in the early 1900s through organized crime led by Al Capone and was always invoked when I lived in the Windy City.

Today, it’s just the opposite. The Trump administration is working hard to suppress the vote ahead of the November midterms in hopes that it will help the Republicans cling to power.

I remember learning civics lessons about the importance of voting in elementary school. We held mock elections to parallel what was happening in real politics.

In high school, I participated in YMCA Youth in Government where we went to the state capital in Lansing, Michigan, and spent most of a week sitting in chambers, drafting bills and passing legislation that was important to us.

Trouble is, they didn’t tell us the full story of how the legislature really worked. There were no lobbyists currying favor with us, no large corporations taking us out to dinner or on exotic trips. We learned the pure version, the way our forefathers intended.

That encouraged me to run for mayor of my high school, with my girlfriend as vice-mayor. We lost, but I remained on student council. That’s probably why I’ll never run for mayor again. Scarred for life, lol!

I’m often referred to as the “unofficial mayor of Palm Springs”, an honor I’m pleased to hold. When asked about why I don’t actually run for public office, my answer is always the same: Government moves at a snail’s pace; the court of public opinion moves at internet speed. As the old saying goes, “You can’t win for losing.” The amount of vitriol that our politicians must endure is truly disgusting. Just look at your social media feed and you’ll go down a rabbit hole of half truths, false claims and piling on just for the blood sport of it.

Then there are the campaign ads. Nearly $12 billion is being spent on these ads and most is Super PAC money. This cycle we are seeing some of the worst ever. They bring deeply personal and painful experiences like sexual abuse to damage the credibility of a candidate as in Ohio’s governor’s race.

In less than two weeks, our election will take place. My upbringing taught me to take my responsibility seriously to participate in the democratic process. My hope is that the guardrails put in place by our forefathers will be enough to weather the storm of election tampering we’re seeing this cycle. I’m voting early, but not often…

Brad Fuhr, your K-Gay Desert Guide

P.S. Don’t forget to vote for the many LGBTQ+ nominees in the “Best of Coachella Valley”.

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10th Annual East Coachella Valley Pride Festival

Gather for an inspiring afternoon of community connection, culture, and equality at the 10th Annual East Coachella Valley Pride Festival. Head to Coachella Library Park & Gardens on Saturday, October 24 from 3–8 pm for a free, family-friendly celebration and health resource fair. The event features live local entertainers, queer art displays, food vendors, and community organizations dedicated to supporting LGBTQ+ youth, families, and allies. Come honor a decade of progress and regional pride in the East Valley! More info

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Reel Women’s Film Festival

See inspiring stories of trail-blazing women at Planned Parenthood’s Reel Women’s Film Festival. Gathering cinema lovers at Palm Springs Cultural Center on Sunday, October 25 from 12:30–11 pm, this 13th annual festival benefits Planned Parenthood of the Pacific Southwest. Featured films include The Inquisitor, highlighting congresswoman Barbara Jordan and her longtime partner Nancy Earl, alongside inspiring documentaries telling the powerful journeys of Somali runner Samia Yusuf Omar and Israeli activist Efrat Tilma. More info

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62nd Annual Golf Cart Parade

Colorful floats, marching bands, and whimsical decorations roll down El Paseo during the 62nd Annual Golf Cart Parade. Head over to El Paseo Shopping District on Sunday, October 25 to experience this beloved community tradition. Festivities start early at 8 am with a marketplace, food vendors, dance groups, and a dedicated kids zone, followed by the main parade processional at 12 pm. Keep an eye out for KGAY’s Brad Fuhr and John Taylor, taking part in the parade aboard the all-electric OPTIQ from Jessup Cadillac! More info

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Best of CV – Final Round Voting Final Day is Friday

CV Independent’s Best of Coachella Valley 2026–2027 final voting round is wrapping up and this is your chance to help crown the winners across the valley’s most‑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 KGAY 103.1 and Sunny 106.5 for Best Radio Station; John Taylor, E.J. Tyler and Patrick Evans for Best Local Radio Personality; and the dynamic DJ trio — DJ Galaxy, DJ Eric Ornelas, and MODGIRL — for Best Local DJ. Voting continues through Friday, October 23, so cast your vote and help celebrate your favorites in this year’s Best of Coachella Valley! Vote Today

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Naked Yoga

Marvel at fine art photography during Naked Yoga, a stunning exhibition featuring thirty rare silver gelatin prints by renowned photographer Michael Childers. This free three-day event runs Friday–Sunday, October 23–25 at Stephen Baumbach Gallery. Opening night on Friday, October 23 from 5–7 pm offers wine and a live Yogi flow demonstration. On Saturday, October 24 from 3–5 pm, enjoy tea, cookies, and conversation with the artists. The showcase concludes Sunday, October 25 from 5–7 pm with a final meditation session. Sales of signed framed prints directly benefit yoga teacher certification scholarships. More info

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Perez Art District: 4th Friday Art Walk & “Conversations with the Land” Show

Immerse yourself in Cathedral City’s creative scene during the 4th Friday Art Walk featuring the special “Conversations with the Land” show. Stroll through open working studios at Perez Art District on Friday, October 23 from 4–7 pm to meet talented local artists, watch live demonstrations, and purchase original art directly from creators. This multi-media exhibition features desert-inspired works by twenty local artists exploring nature, highlighted by a special 5 pm performance by the Bird Singers from the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians and poetry recitations by Cathedral City Poet Laureate Clare Chu.

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REAF House Party PS

Celebrate in grand style at the REAF House Party PS – Pride in Paradise 2. Set for Saturday, October 24 from 5–8 pm at a private address in Andreas Hills, this tropical cocktail party features spectacular live entertainment. Billboard recording artist Debby Holiday performs alongside drag superstar Billy L’Amore, jazz diva Keisha D, the SOS Entertainers dance troupe, and the Desert Studs gogo dancers. KGAY Morning Show host John Taylor is hosting, and KGAY’s own spin master DJ Galaxy provides high-energy music throughout the evening. Don festive tropical or Pride attire to enjoy an unforgettable evening of music, dancing and community celebration surrounded by stunning desert views. More info

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This Weekend at the McCallum Theatre

Sensational live stage entertainment fills the lineup this weekend at McCallum Theatre. On Saturday, October 24, the dazzling circus spectacular C!RCA: Duck Pond reimagines Swan Lake with breathtaking acrobatics, humor, and an energetic duck army. Closing out the week on Sunday, October 25 at 2 pm, Broadway favorite Megan Hilty delivers a powerful vocal concert featuring beloved musical hits. More info

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This Weekend at The Purple Room

On Friday and Saturday, musical comedy duo Lauren Molina and Nick Cearley strip down to their underwear as The Skivvies for The Rocky Horror Skivvies Show, delivering mash-up arrangements of Richard O’Brien’s cult musical classics. Then on Sunday, celebrated entertainer Michael Holmes takes the stage in The Judy Show! to deliver a hilarious, razor-sharp parody of Judy Garland hosting Hollywood legend guest stars. More info

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Dracula: A Comedy of 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 15–31, 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 fiancée is concerning. 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

Cat on a Hot Tin Roof

Cat on a Hot Tin Roof runs October 9–24, presented by THE BENT. Tennessee Williams’ Pulitzer Prize‑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 Williams’ groundbreaking work. More info

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Bound 4K Screening w/ Local Queer Erotic Short ‘Bite the Boot’

Experience a special one-night-only film event as Festival Theaters Palm Springs host a special screening of Bound on Friday, October 23 from 7–9:30 pm. Three years before The Matrix, directors the Wachowskis unleashed their iconic sapphic heist thriller starring Jennifer Tilly and Gina Gershon. This stunning 4K re-release is paired with the high desert queer erotic short film “Bite the Boot” by XilaMonstrr Productions. Attendees can also participate in an exclusive Q&A session with the creators of the short film immediately following the showing. More info

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Into the Woods

Fairy tales collide in magical ways as Stephen Sondheim’s award-winning musical masterpiece Into the Woods comes to life outdoors. Running Friday–Sunday, October 23–25 at Rancho Mirage Amphitheatre, this whimsical production features music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim and a book by James Lapine. The talented cast stars Lizzie Sosa, Jacob Lozano, and Catrina Teruel following a baker and his wife on a quest to reverse a curse. Experience an unforgettable theatrical journey about courage, consequence, and community. More info

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Burgers, Boys & Brews Sunday BBQ

Every Sunday from 2:30–4:30 pm, The Social Cafe & Lounge hosts Burgers, Boys & Brews, a backyard‑style cookout featuring fresh‑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, all‑inclusive brunch experience. More info

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• Joy’n Us • VR filmmaker Travis Hutchison showcases newly discovered 1970s archives from photographer Frank Diernhammer at Materias Primas, opening Friday. The multimedia exhibition includes vintage prints, 8mm film, and virtual reality honoring Antonio Lopez and Juan Ramos, with proceeds benefiting DAP Health.
• Floating Sound Bath Experience • Guests float in an outdoor saltwater pool for a restorative guided meditation session launching Friday at 6:30 pm at JW Marriott Spa and Resort. The 60-minute experience combines soothing sound frequencies and serene mountain views.
• Life Without Limits Sock Hop Luncheon • United Cerebral Palsy of the Inland Empire hosts a retro 1950s-themed fundraising luncheon on Friday from 11:30 am–1:30 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa Rancho Mirage.
• Perez Art District: 4th Friday and 2nd Saturday Art Walk • Local art lovers gather to explore working studios and meet creative talent on Friday from 4–7 pm at Perez Art District. Conversations with the Land • Twenty local artists showcase desert-inspired artworks during a multi-media exhibition during the Art Walk. The event features a special 5 pm performance by the Bird Singers alongside poetry recitations by Clare Chu.
• 38 Special – Milestone • Southern rock band 38 Special performs classic platinum hits and fresh tracks on Friday at 8 pm at The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa.
• La Quinta CV Link Day • The City of La Quinta invites residents and visitors for a morning walk or ride on Saturday from 8–10 am at Jefferson Street & Vista Grande. Participants can explore the 40-mile CV Link pathway with free e-bike rentals, water, and snacks.
• Miralon Community Blood Drive • LifeStream and the Miralon community host a lifesaving blood drive on Saturday from 9 am–2 pm at MiraBar. Donors can walk in or schedule appointments to help save lives while receiving a limited-edition Halloween-themed T-shirt while supplies last.
• An Evening at COPA: Where Rhythm Meets Philanthropy • Hanson House Foundation presents a Copacabana-inspired gala dinner on Saturday from 5–10 pm at Palm Springs Air Museum. The evening honors community leaders Dick Shalhoub, Gerald “Jerry” Keller, Linda Evans, Oliver Jack, and Sherman Tam, with special recognition for Dr. Ercoli.
• Atomic Pink Bash • Metropolitan Fashion Week hosts a high-fashion fundraiser supporting earthquake relief on Saturday from 6–10:30 pm at The Velvet Rope. Highlights include a presentation styling breast cancer survivors, runway shows, fine art, vocalists, and a dessert table, with tunes from KGAY’s DJ Galaxy!
• Unbuttoned: A Boylesque Social Experience • Performer Michael Silas, former dancer for Lady Gaga, delivers an intimate boylesque show on Saturday from 7–8:30 pm at The Social Cafe & Lounge.
• Dance Ranch – Country Dance Saturdays • Country western dancers of all skill levels gather for an inclusive dance social on Saturday from 7–9:30 pm at Step by Step Dance Studio. Instructor Rob Ollander-Krane leads a beginner shadow lesson at 7 pm followed by open social dancing.
• 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

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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.

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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!

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• Naked Yoga | By the Legendary Photographer Michael Childers
  Fri.–Sun. Oct 23–25 at Stephen Baumbach Gallery
• Perez Art District: 4th Friday and 2nd Saturday Art Walk
  Fri. Oct 23 from 4–7 pm
• REAF House Party PS – Pride in Paradise 2
  Sat. Oct 24 from 5–8 pm at a private home in Andreas Hills
• Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors
  Oct 15–31 at Revolution Stage Company
• Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, presented by THE BENT
  Oct 9–24 at the Palm Springs Cultural Center
• 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.
• & 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
• 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
• 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
• 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

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.

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