We could be in for a bumpy ride – weatherwise – this season. It started Thursday with a storm in Yucca Valley and 29 Palms with heavy rain and hail that also sparked a few dry lightning fires in the Coachella Valley. I was in the middle of it in Joshua Tree — loving every minute of the rain, the thunder and lightning. That tends to be an anomaly for those of us who spend the majority of time in the desert.
The real concern is the super El Niño winter we’re about to experience. It’s happening as we speak with two hurricanes off the coast in Mexico that are expected to bring us higher humidity, a chance of rain next week and coastal flooding. And that’s just the beginning, according to Patrick Evans, chief meteorologist at Newschannel 3.
We count on the typical dry weather of the Coachella Valley as tourists start to flock back for “season”. The way we roll is with outdoor concerts and music festivals, sporting events, mixers and of course, Palm Springs Pride itself. So when the forecast starts to increase odds of rainy days we get a little nervous. We’ll all be watching the forecasts just a little more carefully and making last minute adjustments to plans where in most years we barely give it a second thought.
Maybe Palm Springs will have snow again like on January 31st, 1979. We recorded 1.5 inches that day and it shut down the city, according to reports from The Desert Sun which covered it extensively. A good friend of mine was here for that storm, and has the newspaper clippings to prove it.
Whether that weather was an El Niño event, we may never know. But suffice to say we’ll be paying a little closer attention to Patrick’s forecasts this winter.
Brad Fuhr, your K-Gay Desert Guide
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Debby Holiday‘s Tribute to Tina Turner
Simply the Best: A Tribute to Tina Turner & Friends brings Debby Holiday to the Purple Room Supper Club Friday & Saturday, September 25 & 26 (Dinner at 6 pm, Show at 8 pm). A 17‑time Billboard Top 20 artist, Debby delivers passion and powerhouse vocals while honoring Tina Turner and other legendary divas. Debby’s three‑decade career includes touring with Rod Stewart, KISS and Joe Walsh, plus appearances on David Letterman, The View and Rosie O’Donnell. More info
Que Calor Pool Party
The Que Calor Pool Party at Arrive Hotel is an end‑of‑summer celebration on Saturday, September 26 from 4–8 pm. The event transforms the poolside into a lively oasis with music, food, and drinks, creating a fun afternoon of splashing, dancing, and unwinding. Produced by SOS Entertainers, the party also supports the Palm Springs Animal Shelter, adding heart to the festivities. Guests can enjoy general admission or reserve one of eight VIP cabanas. More info
Perez Art District — 4th Friday Art Walk
The Perez Art District: 4th Friday Art Walk happens Friday, September 25 from 11 am–7 pm. Visitors can explore local galleries, meet artists and enjoy a full day of creativity and community across Buildings H & I. It’s an easygoing, open‑house‑style stroll through one of the valley’s most vibrant artist hubs, offering a chance to discover new work, connect with makers and experience the district’s growing cultural energy. More info
Cinema Diverse 2026 Weekend 2
Cinema Diverse 2026 Weekend 2 at The Palm Springs Cultural Center runs all weekend through Sunday September 27. A celebration of LGBTQ+ storytelling, identity, history, love, resilience and queer imagination, the festival spans multiple theatres and screening blocks. Across documentary, narrative, comedy, drama and experimental shorts, Cinema Diverse highlights emerging and established filmmakers exploring coming out, chosen family, cultural heritage, activism, romance and the intersections of gender, sexuality and community. More info
Mama’s Boy
Mama’s Boy starring Gregg Glaviano is Saturday, September 26 at 7:30 pm at Palm Springs Plaza Theatre. This emotional cabaret blends music and storytelling as Glaviano reflects on growing up with a mother living with chronic depression—and how those experiences shaped his journey through first love, marriage, divorce and coming out. Featuring Paul Cady, Richard Elander, Jim Gnaster and Jenny Carey, the show moves between humor, vulnerability and heartfelt musical moments drawn from Broadway, the Rat Pack and classic pop. More info
It’s Final Round Voting Time — Best of CV
CV Independent’s Best of Coachella Valley 2026–2027 final voting round is now underway, 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
Greater Palm Springs Spa Month
Greater Palm Springs Spa Month heads into its final days with exclusive wellness experiences throughout all nine resort cities. Slow down, breathe deeply, and embrace self‑care your way—whether through a mineral spring soak, a rejuvenating facial, a deeply relaxing massage, a sound bath under the desert sky, or a full day dedicated entirely to restoration. Participating resort spas, day spas, and hot springs spas offer limited‑time treatments and special packages through the end of September. More info
Planned Parenthood’s Riverside County Cocktail Reception
Planned Parenthood’s Riverside County Cocktail Reception takes place Friday, September 25 from 5:30–11 pm at Avalon Hotel & Bungalows Palm Springs. Celebrating 63 years of compassionate, essential care, the evening highlights the movement to protect access to sexual and reproductive health services. Guests will hear inspiring stories about the organization’s impact, including live entertainment and remarks from Jenny Black, President and CEO of Planned Parenthood of the Pacific Southwest. More info
The Shawshank Redemption
The Shawshank Redemption at Desert Theatreworks runs September 25–October 4 in the Blackbox Theatre. This gripping stage production follows banker Andy Dufresne, wrongly convicted of murder, as he navigates corruption, brutality and the faint glimmer of hope inside Shawshank State Penitentiary. His bond with Ellis “Red” Redding and his quiet, decades‑long plan for freedom unfold in an intimate setting where audiences feel the weight of the walls around them. This is not the movie—it’s harder, closer and deeply human, launching the 2026–2027 season with a limited eight‑performance run. More info
Films in the Gardens — At Eternity’s Gate (2018)
At Eternity’s Gate (2018) screens Friday, September 25 at 7:30 pm at Sunnylands Center and Gardens. Presented with the Palm Springs International Film Society, this free outdoor series invites guests to bring a blanket, arrive early and enjoy cinema under the stars. At Eternity’s Gate offers an intimate portrait of Vincent van Gogh’s final, prolific years painting in Arles and Auvers‑sur‑Oise, set against the serene backdrop of the Gardens. More info
Dance Me — The Music of Leonard Cohen
Dance Me: The Music of Leonard Cohen takes the stage Saturday, September 26 at 8 pm at McCallum Theatre, performed by Ballets Jazz Montréal. Inspired by the work of Montreal‑born poet, artist and songwriter Leonard Cohen — and approved by Cohen during his lifetime — this exclusive creation evokes the cycles of existence explored in his music and poems. More info
Heart Centered Healing Sound Bath
The Desert Sound Sessions: Heart Centered Healing Sound Bath at Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs happens Sunday, September 27 from 9:45–11 am. Led by Ashley Tiedeman, this immersive morning experience begins with tea, mingling and a gentle Quantum Heart Meditation designed to expand inner awareness and ignite the heart’s electromagnetic field. Participants then settle into a soothing sound bath where crystal bowls and healing frequencies support deep relaxation, energetic clearing and alignment. More info
Burgers, Boys & Brews Sunday BBQ
Burgers, Boys & Brews — Sunday BBQ returns Sunday, September 27 from 2:30–4:30 pm at The Social Cafe & Lounge. This weekly backyard‑style cookout features fresh‑grilled burgers, hot dogs, sides, bottomless mimosas, bottomless draft beer, great music, and live male entertainment. It’s a lively Sunday afternoon tradition where guests can eat, drink, and enjoy the atmosphere. More info
- Billy L’Amour & The Love Notes • Singer Billy L’Amour joins The Love Notes and guest music director Paul McDonald for an intoxicating musical journey on Friday from 6–9 pm at Spirit Animal at Hotel Zoso.
- A Disco Affair • Resident DJ NRich and guest DJ Papa Trebizo spin an all-vinyl dance party on Friday from 8 pm–12 am at Saguaro Palm Springs. Music lovers can dance to disco, boogie, funk, synth rarities, and left-field club records mixed entirely by hand.
- Kevin Costner & Modern West • Actor and musician Kevin Costner and his band present cinematic storytelling and Americana-driven country-rock on Friday at 8 pm at The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa.
- Are You A Humanist? • Presenters explore humanist values through video clips of American Humanist Association CEO Fish Stark on Saturday from 11 am–12:30 pm at the LGBTQ Center. Speakers Jim Barnett and Carsten Smidt share personal journeys and discuss principles that promote human dignity, freedom, and ethical responsibility.
- PS Brew Crew LA SD Brewery Takeovers • Beer enthusiasts gather for a multi-stop brewery crawl on Saturday from 1–5:30 pm at Coachella Valley Brewing Company. Visiting Bear brewery-hopping groups from Los Angeles and San Diego team up with local beer lovers to explore downtown Palm Springs craft breweries.
- A League of Their Own, Film Screening & Drag Spectacular • Celebrate pop icon Madonna with live drag performances on Saturday at 6 pm at Festival Theaters in Palm Springs. The event includes a screening of director Penny Marshall‘s beloved sports comedy A League of Their Own.
- Sloshed: National Lampoon’s Vacation — Live Shadow Cast • Moviegoers join a live shadow cast recreating scenes onscreen on Saturday from 6–10 pm at Spirit Animal at Hotel Zoso. Performers bring National Lampoon’s Vacation into the room with costumes, props, audience interaction, and improvised surprises during this interactive comedy screening.
- Night Swim at Palm Springs Surf Club • Gather for an after-hours pool party on Saturday from 6–10 pm with live DJs, cocktails at the Island Bar, and access to the Island Pool and Lazy River under the lights.
- Unbuttoned, A Boylesque Social Experience • Dancer Michael Silas, known as one of Lady Gaga‘s original dancers, delivers a bold boylesque performance on Saturday from 7–8:30 pm at The Social Cafe & Lounge.
- Dance Ranch Country Dance Saturdays • Dancers of all skill levels gather for country-western dancing on Saturday from 7–9:30 pm at Step by Step Dance Studio. Instructor Rob Ollander-Krane teaches a beginner shadow lesson before open dancing featuring two-step, waltz, swing, and line dances.
- Marni Von Wilpert for Congress Fundraiser • Senator Barbara Boxer and Congressman Raul Ruiz join the host committee for this political fundraising event to back candidate Marni Von Wilpert on Sunday from 11 am–1 pm at a private location in Palm Springs.
- NSFW – New Season of Work • Art enthusiasts can discover a special exhibition celebrating the opening of the Palm Springs art season through September 30 at Rubine Red Gallery. Featured artists Russ White, T. Young, Merick Reed, Don Fisher, and Terrence Payne showcase exciting new work reflecting the distinctive creative energy of contemporary art.
- A Queer Arcana: Art, Magic, and Spirit • Explore how spirituality, magic, and esoteric knowledge shape LGBTQ+ culture through October 18 at the Palm Springs Art Museum.
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Pet Star 2027 Photo Contest – Final days
Furry, feathered, and scaly companions across the Coachella Valley can shine in the spotlight during the Pet Star 2027 Photo Contest, running now through September 30. This annual fundraiser by Greater Palm Springs Animal Allies invites pet owners to submit photos for a $25 entry in five categories, with votes costing $1 each. The top vote‑getter becomes the 2027 Pet Star Champion and lands the calendar cover, while other high‑ranking pets appear inside. Supporters can also preorder calendars or reserve special dates for $20. More info
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 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!
- Cinema Diverse 2026
Sep 17–20 and 24–27 at the Palm Springs Cultural Center - Perez Art District: 4th Friday and 2nd Saturday Art Walk
Fri. Sep 25 from 4–7 pm and Sat. Oct 10 from 11 am–3 pm - Mama’s Boy – Starring Gregg Glaviano
Sat. Sep 26 at 7:30 pm at the Palm Springs Plaza Theatre - Greater Palm Springs Spa Month
Sep 1–30 at participating Coachella Valley spas - Burgers, Boys & Brews Sunday BBQ
Sundays from 2:30–4:30 pm at The Social Cafe & Lounge - Planned Parenthood’s Riverside County Cocktail Reception
Fri. Sep 25 at 5:30 pm at Avalon Hotel & Bungalows - Joshua Tree Music Festival
Oct 8–11 at Joshua Tree Lake Campground - People, an exhibition of four artists
Oct 8–11 at Impell Gallery - Modernism Week – October 2026
Oct 15–18 at various locations - Palm Springs Pride Walk
Sat. Oct 17 at 8:30 am in the Arenas District & Downtown Palm Springs - 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 - Sam Morrison: Sugar Daddy
Fri. Nov 6 at 7 pm at the Palm Springs Plaza Theatre - Palm Springs Pride 5K Run & Walk 2026
Sat. Nov 7 from 7–10 am - 25th HRC Palm Springs Coachella Valley Garden Party
Sat. Nov 7 from 1:30–4:30 pm at the Dinah Shore Estate
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 fires up Fur Friday at Hunters on September 25 from 4–9 pm, kicking off the weekend with big beats and a special Dolly‑themed set for Dolly Parton Day (“9‑two‑5”). Also on Friday: At 9 pm, MODGIRL brings The Deep Well to the Amigo Room at the Ace Hotel in Palm Springs.
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 get access to secret contests, sweet offers, surprises and more! This week, you can WIN TICKETS to see Paula Cole on October 4 at the Palm Springs Cultural Center. 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.
- Restaurant News Bites: Gertie’s Replaces Alice B., Scoop Festival Returns, and More
- Lesbians Are Glamorous and Chic in 2026: The Dinah’s New Era in Palm Springs
- 7 Best Hiking Trails in Greater Palm Springs: Waterfalls, Canyons & Desert Views
- Modernism Week Introduces Curated Southern California Architecture Day Trips
- César García‑Alvarez Named Q+ Art Curator‑at‑Large at Palm Springs Art Museum
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.
