“Meet the Palm Springs Radio Station Mixing Pleasure and Politics”, the Fodor’s headline reads. This article published over the weekend has quite the different tone from the one appearing in The New York Times just over a year ago.
Back then, we had a Democratic president and life was pretty good. When Erik Piepenburg interviewed us just before Christmas 2023, we focused on the music and how we entertain our audience worldwide. Erik aptly highlighted our community connections and how the KGAY music selection transcends generations.
Today, we’re talking about whether or not we’ll survive as an FCC-regulated radio station. “We’re well aware that we could be erased,” (John) Taylor says. “GAY is in our call letters. The federal government regulates radio through the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), so we are well aware of the risk of being turned off by the current administration. We could be erased with everything else LGTBQ+ that the current administration seems want to erase.”
That’s not just hyperbole. The new FCC chair is calling for all the major broadcast networks to be investigated for the coverage of the Kilmar Abrego Garcia controversy. And if you watched 60 Minutes last night, you got an earful from Scott Pelley about Paramount’s bending to the will of the Trump administration.
We’re going to need your support in the coming days. Today, I’m announcing a campaign to help fund our worldwide streaming efforts and community service. We’re calling it, “Support Your Station: KGAY’s Fund Drive”. We are planning on on-air appeal in May to help us keep doing what we do.
This wasn’t what I wanted to do. But as a public benefit corporation putting purpose over profit, we’ve been incurring debt for our worldwide streaming service and local broadcasts. Soon, I’ll tell you more about how KGAY listeners can step up to help. For now, enjoy the Fodor’s article about our story so nicely written by Tierney Finster.
Brad Fuhr, your Gay Desert Guide on KGAY 106.5 Palm Springs
For the latest, follow our socials @GayDesertGuide and @KGAY1065 and listen to KGAY Palm Springs wherever you may reside!
#ILoveGayPalmSprings #ILoveGayCatCity #ILoveGayTravel #ILoveGay #SayKGAY #FindYourOasis
TUE: Forging Forward
Join The LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert and Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Palm Springs for the next installment of the Community Convening series, “Forging Forward” on Tuesday, April 29, from 5–6:30 pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center. This important event will provide updates on HRC’s strategies in response to actions by the new Administration, with a focus on schools, workplaces, policy, and politics. Featuring insights from John Gruber, Director of National Campaigns, and Zack Hasychak, Senior Director of Events & Activations, the evening includes a town hall-style Q&A hosted by Brian O’Connor, a local HRC leader. RSVP encouraged. More info
TUE/WED: Gladys in Wonderland
Catch Gladys in Wonderland at Desert Theatreworks on Tuesday and Wednesday, April 29–30 at 7:30 pm. This witty and heartfelt play by Rosemary Frisino Toohey follows 87-year-old Gladys, whose stubborn refusal to depart the mortal world leaves even Death baffled. As her cheerful grim reaper tries to guide her toward the afterlife, Gladys encounters a parade of comically nitpicking friends, relatives, and a glimpse into nursing home life—all making the great unknown surprisingly appealing. Get tickets
TUE: Boost LGBTQ+ and Allies Mixer
The Boost LGBTQ+ and Allies Mixer is Tuesday, April 29, from 7–9 pm at V Wine Lounge & Martini Bar. Co-sponsored by the Human Rights Campaign and connected to the renowned Boost Conference – the largest global gathering for after-school and expanded learning professionals – this mixer offers a fantastic opportunity for LGBTQ+ individuals and their allies to connect and network. More info
WED: Keisha D Benefit Concert with Ron Pass & Vanity Halston
Join one eleven bar for a Benefit Show supporting Keisha D on Wednesday, April 30, from 7-9 pm. Hosted by the fabulous Ron Pass and Vanity Halston, this exciting event features your favorite Palm Springs entertainers, including Billy L’Amour, Colton Ford, Nikki Dickinson, Mark Richards, and more surprises. Enjoy an evening of incredible performances while contributing to a great cause, as all show proceeds go directly to Keisha D’s support fund. More info
THU-SUN: Shag House Tours
Step into the vibrant world of The Shag House with immersive tours from May 1–4. Join the Tiki Tour with hourly experiences from 9 am–1 pm, or embrace the evening ambiance with the Twilight Tour on May 1 and 2, with tours starting at 5 pm, 6 pm, and 7 pm. Designed by artist Shag (Josh Agle), this meticulously restored mid century modern home blends Desert Modern architecture with his signature style, offering a one-of-a-kind experience in Palm Springs’ Little Beverly Hills neighborhood. Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to explore a life-size Shag painting! On Saturday at 4 pm, there’s a guided tour with the artist himself. Get tickets
THU: FNX Red-Carpet Gala & Concert
Join the FNX Red-Carpet Gala & Concert on Thursday, May 1 from 6–11 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa Rancho Mirage. Celebrate the launch of the FNX App, the first Native American streaming platform, with VIP catering by award-winning chef Sean Sherman, plus performances from The Halluci Nation, JR Redwater, ShanDien Sonwai LaRance, and the Electric Turquoise Dance Troupe. Get tickets
THU: Saving Nature Film Fest
The Saving Nature Film Festival will take place on Thursday, May 1 with programs at 12:30 pm, 2:15 pm and 4:15 pm, at the Palm Springs Cultural Center. The festival features thought-provoking films highlighting the beauty and fragility of the natural world. Passes start at $25, with all ticket sales benefiting Oswit Land Trust. The festival includes the world premiere of Saving Wildlife – One Acre at a Time, a short film by Oswit Land Trust, and other films focused on environmental justice and wildlife rescue. Get tickets
FRI: Sunnylands’ Films in the Gardens
Enjoy cinematic magic under the stars at Sunnylands’ Films in the Gardens, returning in May with three exciting outdoor screenings! The free series kicks off on Friday, May 2 at 7:30 pm with Spy Kids, followed by Hook on May 9, and The Goonies on May 16. Gates open at 6 pm, and guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets, and small picnics for a cozy movie night. More info
Desert X
Time is becoming limited to explore the fifth edition of Desert X in the Coachella Valley, in its final two weeks, 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. 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
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. Stephen Radosh, our theatre reviewer, says the play is “a deeply-engaging exploration of family, secrets, and how our past can shape our future!” Read his review and Get tickets
ALSO THIS WEEK
Tuesday, April 29
Movies in the Park: The Secret of NIMH | 7 pm at Palm Springs Downtown Park
Wednesday, April 30
Coachella Chamber Local Mixer & Mini Business Expo | 5–7 pm at Coachella Branch Library
The Patty Cakes Talk Show | 7 pm at The Center for Spiritual Living
Friday, May 2
Coachella Valley Cannabis Alliance Network Golf Classic | Woodhaven Country Club
Food Truck Fridays | 5–10 pm in Downtown Indio
United for Good Fundraiser for United Way | 6–9 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa Rancho Mirage
Razzle Dazzle Broadway Revue | 7 pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center
The Cured: The Cure Tribute Experience | 8 pm at The Show
Saturday, May 3
The Property (Israel/Poland) – One-time only movie screening | 10 am at Palm Springs Cultural Center
Kentucky Derby | 2 pm at 360 Sports, Agua Caliente Rancho Mirage, Palm Springs, and Cathedral city
Country Dance Saturdays: Showstopper Line Dance with Kyle Young | 7 pm at Step by Step
Note: due to an unforeseen underground gas leak, The Purple Room Supper Club was forced to be closed through Monday, April 28. They apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and hope to see you again starting Tuesday, April 29! Check out upcoming Purple Room Shows, including the Marvelous Marilyn Maye, May 8–10.
KGAY Desert Guide Highlight
THIS WEEKEND
Hot Rodeo Palm Springs 2025
Hot Rodeo, taking place May 2–4, is one of the top gay rodeo events in the country, combining exciting competitions, lively parties, and community fun to benefit local organizations. The weekend kicks off on Thursday, May 1, with a Dance Contest hosted by The Barebacks at The Tool Shed, where winners in three categories will receive buckles. On Friday, May 2, events continue with a pool party at Motel 6 Downtown, followed by a Welcome Party and Registration at The Tool Shed, and Cowgirl Night at Hunter’s. Saturday, May 3, starts with the official Grand Entry Parade at Dysart Equestrian Park, leading into a day of thrilling rodeo competitions. The evening heats up with Dancing Under the Stars at Oscar’s, featuring country music, cocktails, and line dancing. Sunday, May 4 includes another Grand Entry and rodeo competitions, culminating in an awards ceremony to honor the weekend’s top performers. Get tickets
Retro Palm Springs Fan Convention
Get ready to relive the magic of the 80s, 90s, and early 2000s at Retro Palm Springs, a nostalgic fan convention happening May 3–4 at the Palm Springs Convention Center. On Saturday, May 3, the event runs from 11 am–7 pm, and on Sunday, May 4, it continues from 11 am–6 pm. This exciting celebration features vintage shopping, retro-themed experiences, an arcade, celebrity meet-and-greets, and more. With appearances by stars like Elizabeth Berkley, Mark-Paul Gosselaar, Mario Lopez, and Tori Spelling, it’s a must-visit event for pop culture fans of all ages! Get tickets
This is May Day – National Action Day
Join the National Action this May Day, Saturday, May 3 from 10 am–12 pm at Downtown Palm Springs Park. This is your chance to stand with the many and make your voice heard against the billionaire takeover. Be part of this powerful demonstration for resistance, organized by Courageous Resistance and Indivisible of the Desert. More info
Cinco de Mayo Arenas District Fiesta
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo at the Arenas District Fiesta in Palm Springs on Sunday, May 4, from 2–10 pm. This free block party features performances by Mariachi Arco Iris de Los Angeles, Willie Gomez (The Voice, singer and dancer for Britney, Christina & Katy), Lizz Castles, and Bassmoves, along with incredible music and festivities throughout the day. Upgrade your experience with a VIP All Access Pass, granting exclusive privileges. Join the celebration and let the spirit of Cinco de Mayo shine in this vibrant event! More info
An Evening (and an Afternoon) with David Sedaris
Sold Out! – An Evening with David Sedaris at the Palm Springs Cultural Center on Saturday, May 3 has officially sold out for both 2 pm and 8 pm shows! Guests will enjoy the best-selling author and NPR contributor delivering all-new readings, sharp social critiques, and personal stories, followed by a Q&A and book signing. More info
Blatino Oasis Farewell Retreat
Join the final celebration of Blatino Oasis 2025 at the Canyon Club Hotel, from May 1–4. This farewell retreat honors years of creating connections and celebrating the beauty of Black and Latinx LGBTQ+ communities. The weekend’s highlights include a live performance by AVN and UrbanX Award-winning artist Mazee the Goat, making this event an unforgettable farewell filled with pride, culture, and joy. Get passes
Desert Winds Freedom Band: Pop, Rock & Swing
Join the Desert Winds Freedom Band for their final concert of the season, Pop, Rock and Swing, on Sunday, May 4 from 2–4 pm at the Jewish Community Center in Palm Springs. This lively performance features music from Marvin Hamlisch, The Beatles, Glenn Miller, Josh Groban, Adele, and more. Don’t miss this upbeat afternoon of music that promises something for everyone! Get tickets
Palm Springs Vintage Market Season-Ender
Discover unique vintage treasures at the final Palm Springs Vintage Market of the season on Sunday, May 4 from 7 am–2 pm, located next to the Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs. This iconic market draws locals, visitors, and design enthusiasts in search of retro finds and timeless gems. Open the first Sunday of the month from October through May, it’s a totally unique shopping experience in the heart of Palm Springs! More info
Women’s Tea Dance at Palm Springs Surf Club
Get ready for the Women’s Tea Dance this Sunday, May 4, from 3–6 pm at The Palm Springs Surf Club. Hosted by The LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert, this event promises an afternoon of great music by Ay-Lex Song with no cover charge. It’s going to be a fun gathering with a pulsating atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a Sunday afternoon in Palm Springs! More info
Open Call Talent Project Performance
The Open Call Talent Project Performance at McCallum Theatre is a varied showcase celebrating local talent on May 2 & 3: Friday at 7 pm & Saturday at 2 pm and 7 pm. This visually stunning production features outstanding performers of all ages, including singers, dancers, musicians, magicians, comedians, and more, culminating in a full-cast finale. Audience members can vote for their favorites, with winners revealed at the final performance. Get tickets
Cinco de Mayo Weekend at Agua Caliente
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo Weekend at Agua Caliente, Friday–Monday, May 2–5. Enjoy roaming mariachi bands, live DJs (3 pm–8 pm), festive drink specials, and delicious bites across all three casino locations. On Monday, May 5, indulge in specialty cocktails at 360 Sports, Waters Café (Rancho Mirage), Café One Eleven, and Agave Caliente (Cathedral City), with 50% off happy hour drinks. 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 - Desert X 2025
Mar 8–May 12 at Various Locations Throughout Coachella Valley - Shag House Tours & Experiences
May 1–11 at The Shag House, Palm Springs - Hot Rodeo Palm Springs
May 2–4 at Dysart Equestrian Park in Banning, plus parties in Palm Springs - 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
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, Jaida Essence Hall 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
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.” Tommy James & The Shondells performed at Stagecoach Saturday night and he’s celebrating his 78th Birthday on Tuesday! We’ll be playing his Timeless and Memorable music all day, Tuesday, April 29, on 103.1 MeTV FM. Listen online
You can WIN a pair of tickets to “Bubbles and Bites: Because Mom Deserves a Little Shag” at the Shag House [More info], taking place on Mother’s Day, May 11, from 11 am–1 pm courtesy of 103.1 MeTV FM! It’s a poolside brunch celebrating mothers and the loved ones who cherish them. Enter to WIN on the 103.1 MeTV FM Contest Page
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.