Conclave, the movie, will play out in real life soon following the death of Pope Francis overnight in Rome. While the Catholic church has been decried for its policies over the centuries, Pope Francis had more moderate views on the LGBTQ people in the church.
It was early in his appointment on an in-flight press conference that first laid out his thoughts. A reporter questioned him about gay priests, and the newly appointed pope quipped: “If a person is gay and seeks God and has good will, who am I to judge?”
He was no fan of our current president, and gets credit for that, too. Last July, according to The New York Post, he took on right wing governments as a whole and told believers: Democracy is not in good health in the world today.” He decried “ideological temptations and populists,” saying, “Ideologies are seductive. Some people compare them to the Pied Piper of Hamelin: they seduce but lead you to deny yourself.”
According to the Post, “He encouraged outreach to LGBTQ Catholics, welcomed transgender sex workers to the Vatican, and approved a document saying priests could “bless” — but not marry — same-sex couples. Intense backlash from the blessing document forced the Church to issue two “clarifications” in the 14 days after its release that dramatically restricted the practice.”
Give him credit for pushing the envelope. But like the political climate in the world today, I have to wonder if the pendulum will swing in the opposite direction when the smoke rises from the chimney of the next Conclave.
Brad Fuhr, your Gay Desert Guide on KGAY 106.5 Palm Springs
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MON: Palm Springs International Piano Competition FINALS
The Grand Concerto Finals of the Palm Springs International Piano Competition (Junior Division) will take place on Monday, April 21 at 6 pm at the McCallum Theatre, showcasing the extraordinary talent of the top young pianists. Competing for the prestigious $10,000 Gold Medal prize, these finalists will deliver riveting performances in pursuit of career-defining opportunities, including a Yamaha Artist Services New York recording and appearances through 2025–27. Witness the culmination of this remarkable competition!. Get tickets
MON: Behind the Curtain: Untold Stories from Canada’s Team Broadway
After a sold-out show in November, Behind the Curtain: Untold Stories from Canada’s Team Broadway returns to the Revolution Stage Company on Monday, April 21 at 7 pm. This critically acclaimed musical cabaret features Broadway alumni Craig Ramsay and Catherine Wreford, winners of The Amazing Race Canada, sharing behind-the-scenes stories, celebrity encounters, and favorite Broadway tunes, packed with high notes and heartfelt moments. Get tickets
WED: HIV in an Aging Population
Join Eisenhower Health’s virtual lecture, HIV in an Aging Population, on Wednesday, April 23 from 4:30–5:30 pm via Zoom. Led by Alex del Rosario, MD, this informative session will explore how HIV impacts the top ten leading causes of death in the United States, with a focus on long-term side effects for adults aged 50 and older. More info
WED: April Center Social at Hunters
Join the April Center Social on Wednesday, April 23 from 5:30–7 pm at Hunters Nightclub in the Arenas District. Held at a different location on every 4th Wednesday of the month, this event offers a welcoming space for connection, friendship, and a delightful happy hour. Don’t miss the chance to unwind and mingle with the community! More info
OPENS WED: Other Desert Cities
Experience the gripping drama of Other Desert Cities, presented by CVRep from April 23–May 4. Set in a Palm Springs manor, this Pulitzer Prize finalist unravels a family’s devastating secret when a young woman arrives with her explosive memoir. With stinging wit and sharp insight, this acclaimed production promises to captivate audiences. Don’t miss this poignant story brought to life in the heart of Palm Springs. Get tickets
THU: Dining Out for Life
On Thursday, April 24, join the fight to end HIV by participating in Dining Out For Life®, an annual fundraising event benefiting DAP Health. Local restaurants, bars, and coffee shops will generously donate a portion of their sales to support this important mission. Palm Springs, despite being the smallest participating city, has ranked second in overall fundraising, thanks to the dedication of local businesses and community members. Make a difference by dining out and supporting this powerful initiative that showcases the strength and unity of our community. Visit the event listing for participating locations and details. More info
THU–SUN: Disney Pride in Concert with PSGMC
Experience the magic of Disney Pride in Concert, presented by the Palm Springs Gay Men’s Chorus (PSGMC) at the Annenberg Theater from Thursday–Sunday, April 24–27. Celebrate LGBTQ+ life, love, family, and pride through timeless Disney songs, curated video clips, and heartfelt stories from the performers. Featuring classics from Peter Pan and Mary Poppins, to modern hits from Coco and Zootopia, this enchanting show is suitable for all ages and brimming with pixie dust. PSGMC is among a select few choruses nationwide to bring this special performance to life. Get tickets
FRI: Palm Springs Walk of the Stars Honors Elinor Harriot
On Friday, April 25 at 11 am, the Palm Springs Walk of the Stars will honor Elinor Harriot for her remarkable career as a Broadway and radio star. Best known for her role on The Amos ‘n’ Andy Show, which was broadcast from the iconic El Mirador Hotel Tower starting in 1935, Harriot’s contributions to entertainment have left a lasting legacy. Join this special ceremony at Palm Canyon Drive and E. Tahquitz Canyon Way in Downtown Palm Springs. More info
Art Walk at the Riviera Resort
Immerse yourself in the vibrant art scene at the Riviera Resort & Spa’s Art Walk on Friday, April 25 from 6:30–9:30 pm. This free event showcases the works of talented local artists, from contemporary abstracts to stunning desert landscapes, in the lobby and Starlite Lounge. Enjoy complimentary hors d’oeuvres, live music, and the chance to meet the artists while exploring Palm Springs’ creative spirit. More info
Desert X
We should have great weather again this weekend to explore the fifth edition of Desert X in the Coachella Valley, on display now through May 11. This outdoor art exhibition features installations across several valley cities that reflect on the desert’s deep time evolutions and intertwine ancestral wisdom with contemporary visions. Check out descriptions of all the pieces and photos from the installations [here]. The Desert X 2025 Hub is hosted at the Thompson Palm Springs. Hub visitors can chat with knowledgeable volunteers, browse merchandise, and enjoy a meal or cocktail at Lola Rose before heading to the exhibition. Printed programs and field guides will be available for pickup at the Hub during open hours or at the front desk throughout the exhibition. Hub hours are Fridays from 2–5 pm and Saturday & Sunday from 10 am–5 pm. More info
THEATRE
Falsettos
Experience the powerful and poignant musical drama Falsettos, presented by Dezart Performs from April 18–27. This Tony Award-winning masterpiece by William Finn and James Lapine explores the complexities of love, family, and relationships with humor and heartache. Following Marvin as he navigates life after leaving his wife and son for his lover Whizzer, the story delves into themes of growth, acceptance, and resilience, set against the backdrop of baseball, bar mitzvahs, and the AIDS crisis. Our theatre reviewer Stephen Radosh says “Ultimately, Falsettos is a masterclass, balancing hilarity with heartbreak while offering a deeply human story filled with flawed but lovable characters.” Read his review and Get tickets
Beyond Therapy
Join Desert Ensemble Theatre for Beyond Therapy, running April 18–27. This witty 1981 comedy follows Bruce and Prudence, two neurotic urbanites navigating the chaos of modern romance with the dubious guidance of their eccentric therapists. Packed with unexpected twists and laugh-out-loud surprises, Christopher Durang’s play offers a hilariously unpredictable exploration of love and sanity.Gay Desert Guide theatre reviewer Stephen Radosh says “If you enjoy sharp wit, eccentric characters, and the delightful chaos of human relationships, this play is a must-see.” Read his review and Get tickets
ALSO THIS WEEK
Tuesday, April 22
Rancho Mirage Earth Day 2025 | 7 am–12 pm at Rancho Mirage Community Park
Thursday, April 24
VillageFest | 6–10 pm in downtown Palm Springs
The Totally Ridiculous Gameshow | 7–8:30 pm at Dietlart Gallery
Friday, April 25
Veterans Rally Against Cuts to VA Health Care | 12 pm at Palm Desert VA Clinic
Perez Art District 4th Fridays Art Walk | 4 pm in Cathedral City
An Evening of Grace – Lessons from an Alabama Lesbian | 5 pm in Desert Hot Springs
Cocktails and Cabaret with Billy L’Amour | 7 pm at Revolution Stage Company
Bear Union | 8 pm–4 am at Club 541
Saturday, April 26
Plant & Play Earth and Arbor Day Celebration | 8 am–2 pm at Victoria Park, Palm Springs
No Master, No Chains (France), presented by Desert Film Society | 10 am at Palm Springs Cultural Center
Community Meeting with Mayor Ron DeHarte | 11 am at the Palm Springs Convention Center
Drag Bingo for Parkinson’s | 2–4 pm at Dick’s on Arenas
Country Dance Saturdays: Beginner East Coast Swing with Lise Baadh | 7 pm at Step by Step
Comedian Ralph Barbosa | 8 pm at The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa Rancho Mirage
KGAY Desert Guide Highlights!
Brad Fuhr at Cocktails on the Page, for the PS Public Library Fdn at the historic Piazza di Liberace. 
“House of Vance” Event for the Max series “Hacks” 
KGAY’s John Taylor at “House of Vance” Event for the Max series “Hacks” 
“House of Vance” Event for the Max series “Hacks” 
Trixie Mattel DJ set at the “House of Vance” Event 
THIS WEEKEND
Stagecoach
Get ready for the Stagecoach Music Festival, happening April 25–27 at the Empire Polo Club in Indio. This iconic event brings together country music’s biggest stars, including headliners Zach Bryan, Jelly Roll, and Luke Combs, along with a diverse lineup of artists like Lana Del Rey, Brothers Osborne, and Creed. With once-in-a-career performances, late-night parties, and a festival atmosphere, Stagecoach is a must-attend celebration for (mostly country) music lovers. Get tickets
Caturday Breakfast + Bingo
Join Animal Samaritans for their 4th Annual Caturday Breakfast + BINGO on Saturday, April 26 from 9–11:30 am at the Sky Ballroom, Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs. For $40, enjoy a full breakfast, free mimosas, and a chance to win fabulous prizes with one free bingo card per game! Plus, meet adorable kittens available for adoption, with proceeds benefiting the Feline Fund to support cats and kittens in need. Don’t miss prizes like a staycation at Rowan Palm Springs or a $100 gift card to Si Bon. Check-in begins at 8:30 am—cat lovers, this is your purr-fect event! Get tickets
The Pink Ball 2025
The Pink Ball 2025, hosted by Cassandra James on Saturday, April 26 at 6 pm, is a celebration organized by the Transgender Health & Wellness Center. Featuring special guests Diva and Vanity Halston, this glamorous event aims to raise funds and awareness for transgender health and wellness initiatives. Hosted on the oh-so-elegant rooftop of Flannery Exchange, the Pink Ball is going to be a night to remember, an evening of elegance and community impact. Get tickets
George Michael Reborn
Re-live the heyday of George Michael and WHAM! with George Michael Reborn at the Palm Springs Cultural Center on Saturday, April 26 from 7–9 pm. Featuring the incredible Robert Bartko, this tribute captures the energy and passion of George Michael’s iconic 80s and 90s performances. With live vocals, crowd interaction, and hits like “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” and “Careless Whisper,” Bartko’s charismatic presence will leave you mesmerized. His spot-on resemblance and talent bring the spirit of George Michael to life for a night of unforgettable music and nostalgia. Get tickets
Living Out Art Walk 3
Join the Living Out Art Walk 3 on Sunday, April 27 from 2–4 pm at Living Out Palm Springs. This free event features over 300 stunning works by more than 70 LGBTQ+ artists, showcased in a unique gallery setting within the halls of Living Out. RSVP is required to secure your spot at this celebration of creativity and community. More info
Preservation Matters
Explore Palm Springs’ architectural legacy at Preservation Matters, a free event on Saturday, April 26 from 1–6 pm at the Palm Springs Convention Center. Marking its 10th year, this celebration features presentations from experts like Alan Hess, Steven Keylon, Peter Moruzzi, and Susan Secoy Jensen, delving into the city’s history and future of modernist design. Hosted by the Palm Springs Historic Site Preservation Board, the event includes awards and a city reception. More info
International Jazz Day Celebration
Celebrate International Jazz Day on Sunday, April 27 from 12:30–2:30 pm at Vicky’s of Santa Fe in Indian Wells with a special tribute to the legendary Phyllis Hyman. Presented by the Palm Springs Women’s Jazz Festival, this event features internationally acclaimed artists Dr. Gail Jhonson and Jazz in Pink with Castella on vocals. Hyman’s three-decade career, known for her jazz-influenced style and powerful stage presence, inspired generations of music lovers. Get tickets
Hollywood Meets the Palm Springs Plaza Theatre
Join historian Jim Cook on Sunday, April 27 from 11 am–1 pm at the Palm Springs Convention Center for Hollywood Meets the Palm Springs Plaza Theatre: A Multimedia Journey. This free presentation explores the golden age of Hollywood and the vital role the Plaza Theatre played in shaping Palm Springs’ iconic history. Discover fascinating connections between these legendary locales, and learn about the ongoing restoration of this historic 1936 building. More info
Get our Free Visitor Map & Guide
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. Look for the latest edition at businesses and newsstands around town, or browse it online right here!
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!
- Other Desert Cities, presented by CVRep
Apr 23–May 4 - Dining Out for Life: End HIV with DAP Health
Thu. Apr 24 at participating Greater Palm Springs restaurants - Disney Pride in Concert, performed by Palm Springs Gay Men’s Chorus
Apr 24–27 at the Annenberg Theater - Local Artist Art Walk
Fri. Apr 25 from 7–9 pm at The Riviera Resort & Spa - Animal Samaritans’ 4th Annual Caturday Breakfast + Bingo
Sat. Apr 26 from 9–11:30 am at the Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs - George Michael Reborn: A Tribute to George Michael and WHAM!
Sat. Apr 26 at 7 pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center - Living Out Art Walk 3
Sun. Apr 27 from 2–4 pm at Living out Palm Springs - Beyond Therapy, presented by Desert Ensemble Theatre
Apr 18–27 at the Palm Springs Cultural Center - Falsettos, presented by Dezart Performs
Apr 18–27 at the Pearl McManus Theater - Desert X 2025
Mar 8–May 12 at Various Locations Throughout Coachella Valley - Retro Palm Springs – A Nostalgic ’90s Fan Convention
Sat. & Sun. May 3 & 4 at the Palm Springs Convention Center - Palm Springs Vintage Market
Sun. May 4 from 7 am–2 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs - Cinco de Mayo Arenas District Fiesta
Sun. May 4 from 2–10 pm - Desert Winds Freedom Band: Pop, Rock & Swing
Sun. May 4 at 2 pm at the Jewish Community Center - Rock the Park: L.A. Vation (Tribute to U2)
Wed. May 7 at 7 pm at Downtown Palm Springs Park - The Problem with Pink
Wed. May 7 at 7 pm at the McCallum Theatre - Harvey Milk Diversity Breakfast
Thu. May 8 at from 8:30–10:30 am at the Palm Springs Convention Center - Joshua Tree Music Festival
May 15–18 at Joshua Tree Lake Campground - Straight From Carnegie Hall: Lea Michele Live
Fri. May 30 at 8 pm at the McCallum Theatre - Gay Wine Weekend 2025
Jul 18–20 Russian River Valley & Healdsburg wine region of Sonoma County
Rancho Descanso in Desert Hot Springs is a gated community offering modern new homes priced from the upper $400,000s, surrounded by the natural beauty of the desert. Enjoy a peaceful retreat with convenient access to all Palm Springs has to offer. Visit Lennar.com/DesertHomes to learn more. More info
KGAY 106.5 & 92.1 FM
The KGAY 106.5 & 92.1 Retro Lunch airs Monday through Friday from noon–1 pm, with DJ Galaxy (Vincent Corrales) and DJ Eric Ornelas playing an hour of their high-energy 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 106.5 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 106.5 online
To listen to KGAY Palm Springs via Alexa, say “Alexa ENABLE K. Gay Palm Springs SKILL” (include “SKILL”) or manually enable it in the Alexa app or at Amazon. Once enabled, access the station by saying “Alexa, OPEN,” “LAUNCH,” or “PLAY K. Gay Palm Springs.” You can also make special requests, such as birthday shoutouts or song dedications! Happy streaming! Learn more
WIN TICKETS courtesy of KGAY 106.5 and 92.1 to RuPaul’s Drag Race Werq the World on Saturday, October 11 at 8 pm at The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa Rancho Mirage [More info]. Experience the ultimate awards show-themed extravaganza hosted by Jimbo as Joan Rivers, with dazzling performances by Derrick Barry as Britney Spears, b as Beyoncé, Naomi Smalls as Mariah Carey, Marina Summers as Ariana Grande, Morphine as Shakira, and surprise Season 17 finalists. Enter to WIN on the KGAY Contest Page
KGAY 106.5 & 92.1 is giving you the chance to step back in time! Enter now for a TICKET GIVEAWAY to Retro Palm Springs, a nostalgic fan convention celebrating pop culture [More info]. Happening May 3 & 4 at the Palm Springs Convention Center, this event is a weekend of awesome celebrity guests, rad vintage shopping, and plenty of Instagrammable retro moments for the whole family, including a video store experience. Win General Admission and one will win the Grand Prize of 2 VIP tickets! Enter to WIN on the KGAY Contest Page
KGAY 106.5 & 92.1 is also giving you the chance to WIN TICKETS to One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest presented by Palm Canyon Theatre, running April 18–27 [More info]. This compelling stage adaptation of Ken Kesey’s classic novel blends humor and candor while exploring the harsh realities of life in a mental institution. Don’t miss the unforgettable tale of McMurphy, whose rebellious charm leads him to unexpected challenges. Enter to WIN on the KGAY Contest Page
103.1 MeTV FM
103.1 MeTV FM plays a Timeless and Memorable variety of the 60’s, 70’s, and 80’s with a touch of the 50’s! You can listen to 103.1 MeTV FM everywhere! In your car, at work, at home or around the world! Online at 1031metvfm.com or tell Alexa, “Open 103.1 MeTV FM.” Rise and Shine weekday mornings with a Timeless and Memorable variety of songs you know and love, and get your weather from Jerry Steffen at NBC Palm Springs!! Listen online
- Billie! Bernie! Bad Romance! The 12 Best Coachella Moments from Weekend One
- Queerchella: Lady Gaga, Green Day & Bob Mizer: Coachella Music Festival’s Gayest Moments
- Hiking With T: Keep an Eye Out for Rattlesnakes, and Take Common-Sense Precautions While on the Trails
- How to Slay Your First Drag Brunch Like a Pro
- Palm Springs Is Proof: The Coachella Valley Is Becoming a Culinary Destination
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 2025 Coachella Valley Calendar of Events.
Listen to KGAY 106.5 and 92.1 over the air, stream it [here], or listen on iHeart Radio with Alexa or Siri by saying “Play K-GAY 106 5 .” 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.