Gay Desert Guide: Week of Apr 6, 2026

Asking for a friend: How do you put yourself out there at a mixer?

Each month, our valley has ample opportunity to meet those with common interests in a variety of settings. For example, the leather community has an extensive calendar of “events”. The Palm Springs Leather Order of the Desert (PSLOD) is a leather, kink and fetish organization with a mission is to foster fellowship and inclusivity. There is a lid for every pot.

One can join the Movie Bears, Gay Men of Palm Springs monthly meet up, and even a Wednesday martini happy hour that starts at 4 pm!

I enjoy Salon for the Parched (S4P) which gathers together those who talk about their passions in a lively presentation held by a pool. (The name came about because the founders were “parched for community”, according to a recent article in Palm Springs Life.)

The Center’s mixers have now been segmented so that lesbians and queer women have their own monthly mixer, while the popular Center Social always occupies the 4th Wednesday of the month.

Yes, there are groups for flagging and flogging, 12 steps and two-stepping. And that’s before we get into the business mixers. Our LGBTQ chamber of commerce, the Desert Business Association, meets monthly to bring together our business community and allies. I’ve been a strong advocate of DBA since I started Gay Desert Guide some 13 years ago and even call out businesses on our directory who are members.

So the groundwork is there: Lots of opportunities to meet like-minded people of all stripes. But back to my original question of putting yourself out there. If you’re new to the valley, exploring a secret desire, coming out or just wanting to meet new people it can be a daunting task.

I’m not the best one to ask advice here because I attend so many events, it’s become rote for me to mingle. But I do remember a time when going into a room full of strangers was a daunting task. You just have to overcome your fear knowing that the connections to be made will offset your apprehensions. There are plenty of YouTube videos, Gemini prompts and online forums that can give you better advice than can I.

Or maybe you should just start your own get together for those — like you — who are afraid of mixers.

Brad Fuhr, your K-Gay Desert Guide

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MON: Palm Springs International Airport Community Update

Curious about what is taking flight at your favorite local travel hub? Head over to the Palm Springs Plaza Theatre for the Palm Springs International Airport Community Update on Monday, April 6 from 5–7 pm. This engaging session offers an inside look at exciting terminal improvements, enhanced guest experiences, and the long-range planning that keeps PSP soaring. Attendees will hear from airport leadership about upcoming capital projects and timelines for what is coming next. More info

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TUE: Healthysexual / Positive Life Series

Participants can engage in open and honest conversations about sexual health and HIV on Tuesday, April 7 from 6–8 pm at the Mizell Center. This educational program is specifically designed for individuals aging with HIV who are looking for clear and practical information regarding their well-being. The session explores sexually transmitted infections and advances in modern medications that help support healthy and active lives. While the series focuses on long-term survivors it is open to anyone who wants to learn more about sexual health. More info

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WED: Joslyn in Bloom

The Joslyn Center invites guests to celebrate creativity and community at the Joslyn in Bloom Fashion Show Luncheon on Wednesday, April 8 from 11 am–2 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa Rancho Mirage. Now in its 16th year, the event embraces an Avant‑Garden theme and honors Barbara Rogers and Gary Geske with the Merritt & Penny Joslyn Award for their leadership in philanthropy. Guests will enjoy a sparkling wine reception, silent auction, luncheon, and a fashion show benefiting programs and services for older adults. Get tickets

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WED: Colin Hay

Colin Hay brings his unmistakable voice and storytelling charm to the Plaza Theatre on Wednesday, April 8 at 7:30 pm, offering an intimate evening that blends reimagined Men At Work classics with the heartfelt solo songs that have defined his career. Joined by his Acoustic Band, Hay strips each track down to its emotional core, creating a warm, witty, and deeply engaging concert experience that highlights both his musicianship and his signature sense of humor. Get tickets

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OPENS THU: Love! Valour! Compassion!

Love! Valour! Compassion! takes the stage at the Dezart Playhouse from April 9–19, inviting audiences into Terrence McNally’s moving and sharply funny story of eight friends who gather over three summer weekends to confront love, fear, loyalty, and loss. Set in the 1990s against the backdrop of the AIDS crisis and directed by Phil McKinley, the production blends humor with emotional depth as it explores the bonds that sustain a community. Get tickets

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Coachella Weekend 1

Weekend One of the Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival (aka “Coachella”) is Friday–Sunday, April 10–12, and even with passes sold out, the energy across the valley is unmistakable. The Empire Polo Club is gearing up for a massive kickoff featuring headliners like Sabrina Carpenter, Justin Bieber, andKarol G, along with standout sets from Disclosure, The Strokes, David Byrne, Devo, Kaskade, Major Lazer, Iggy Pop, Foster the People, Moby, and over 100 more. It’s the moment the desert transforms into the center of the music world once again—so even if you’re not heading through the gates, it’s impossible not to feel the buzz as the biggest festival of the year takes over Indio (and hotel rooms throughout the valley, making it a great time to dine out!). More info

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OPENS FRI: Knife to the Heart

Knife to the Heart arrives at the Palm Springs Cultural Center for a sharp run from April 10–19 presented by Desert Ensemble Theatre, offering a witty and incisive look at family tension from writers Stan Zimmerman and Christian McLaughlin. Directed by Zimmerman, the production blends humor and emotional bite in a story that examines the bruises we carry and the bonds that hold us together. Audiences can expect a smart, character‑driven piece with the same clever edge found in the creators’ television work. Get tickets

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FRI & SAT: Amanda McBroom – My Personal Best

Amanda McBroom brings her extraordinary storytelling and luminous songcraft back to The Purple Room for two nights on Friday and Saturday, April 10 and 11. My Personal Best showcases the very heart of her artistry, weaving together songs of love, loss, lust, and laughter from across her celebrated career. Known as “the greatest cabaret performer of her generation,” McBroom revisits gems from her own songbook — including the iconic “The Rose” — while also honoring master songwriters like Joni Mitchell, Stephen Sondheim, Jerry Herman, and Jacques Brel. Get tickets

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FRI: A Little L’Amour – An Evening Of Song Dance & Gl’amour

The fabulous Billy L’Amour returns to the stage with her dazzling solo show A Little L’Amour – An Evening Of Song Dance & Gl’amour With Billy L’Amour on Friday at 7 pm at the Revolution Stage Company. This spectacular production features a glamorous evening of live singing and dance and comedy and heartfelt storytelling with a mix of Broadway classics and jazz standards and hilarious musical parodies. More info

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This Week at the McCallum Theatre

On Tuesday, April 7 at 7 pm, Isaac Mizrahi brings his sharp wit, bold commentary, and genre‑spanning songbook to the McCallum stage, backed by a six‑piece jazz band in a cabaret experience The New York Times calls boundary‑breaking. On Thursday & Friday, April 9–10, GRAMMY‑winning trumpeter Chris Botti returns with his signature blend of cinematic jazz and virtuosic showmanship, joined by world‑class musicians who have helped make him one of the most celebrated instrumentalists of our time. Then on Saturday, April 11 at 8 pm, legends Marilyn McCoo & Billy Davis Jr. share the timeless hits that shaped pop and soul, from “Up, Up and Away” to “Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In,” in an evening filled with history, harmony, and heart. Get tickets

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ALSO THIS WEEK

MUSIC

• Live Music Wednesdays With Tommy Rox & Friends • Wednesday from 5–7:30 pm at the Social Cafe and Play Lounge. This mid-week musical celebration for local music fans is the perfect spot to enjoy great tunes and community vibes in a relaxed lounge atmosphere.
• The Gand Band: The Prince Of Motown • Wednesday from 7–8:30 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs. This soulful celebration features Dion Khan and Angie Whitney performing iconic Marvin Gaye hits.
• Jive Aces • Thursday from 7–8:30 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs. This energetic six-piece group from the UK brings show-stopping swing and jive to the desert.

THEATRICAL

• Unbuttoned, A Boylesque Social Experience • Saturday at 6 pm at the Social Cafe and Play Lounge. Michael Silas, a former dancer for Lady Gaga, blends storytelling and comedic flair into an intimate performance showcasing his work with the world’s biggest artists.

GATHERINGS

• Ecstatic Dance Coachella Valley • Wednesday from 6–7:45 pm at the Mizell Center. This DJ-led dance experience encourages free movement without choreography or talking. It is a substance-free journey from grounded to high-energy beats designed to help participants get out of their heads.
• The Lofts Art Walk • Saturday from 4–7 pm at the Lofts Art District. Visitors explore gallery studios featuring styles from geometric abstraction to hyper-surrealism.
• Wellness Expo – Parkinson’s Awareness Month • Saturday from 10 am–12:30 pm at the Annenberg Center for Health Sciences at Eisenhower Medical Center. Dr. John D. Legge and Dr. Jessica Shields offer presentations on movement disorders.
• Second Saturday Book Swap • Saturday from 12–4 pm at the Perez Road Art and Design District. Bring a gently loved book on art or design to exchange with fellow patrons. Complimentary snacks and light drinks for all attendees.
• Indio Second Saturdays • Saturday from 3–9 pm in Downtown Indio. This “Festival Survival Session” features a Coachella livestream and free survival kits.

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ONGOING EVENTS

• MONDAY: Mahjong Mondays. Players join American-style social games at The Social Cafe and Play Lounge from 1–3:30 pm. • Hot Spot Bingo: Deven and Ned host a party with comedy and prizes at Cascade Lounge at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs from 7–8:30 pm.
• TUESDAY: Let’s Bingo Again. Vanity Halston leads a night of prizes and food at Ace Hotel & Swim Club from 7–10 pm.
• WEDNESDAY–FRIDAY: Out in the I.E.. This exhibition celebrating history at Civil Rights Institute of Inland Southern California runs from 9 am–5 pm through June 30, 2026.
• THURSDAY: Thursday Night – VillageFest. The community celebrates art and music during this street fair at Villagefest from 6–10 pm.
• FRIDAY: Drag Bingo at Arrive. Friends gather for free rounds and happy hour deals at Arrive Hotel from 4:30–7 pm.
• SATURDAY: Dance Ranch / Country Dance Saturdays. Rob Ollander-Krane teaches Beginner Two-Step followed by social dance at Step by Step Dance Studio from 7–9:30 pm.

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SAYKGAY 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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Spring 2026 Visitor Map & Guide – FREE!

Check out the Spring 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.

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THIS WEEKEND

World Art Day

World Art Day brings a lively four‑hour celebration to Palm Springs Downtown Park on Saturday, April 11 from 10 am–2 pm, inviting the community to explore hands‑on art activities, meet local vendors, and enjoy DJ sets and live performances on the stage near Museum Way. Guests are encouraged to dress creatively, bring blankets or lawn chairs, and settle in for a family‑friendly afternoon surrounded by color and imagination. With food trucks on site and plenty of open space, it offers an easygoing way to tap into the artistic spirit of spring! More info

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Cocktails on the Page with Rufi Thorpe

Cocktails on the Page brings an elegant literary evening to Piazza de Liberace on Saturday, April 11 from 5–7 pm, where guests can enjoy cocktails, light appetizers, and a rare chance to explore the historic Liberace Estate. Hosted by the Palm Springs Public Library Foundation, the event features author Rufi Thorpe, who will share insights into her latest novel Margo’s Got Money Troubles, a bold and funny story of navigating adulthood and new motherhood. Attendees can stroll the grounds, soak in the estate’s storied atmosphere, and take home a copy of Thorpe’s book to have signed during the event. Get tickets

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Alyssa Edwards – Thanks for Everything Tour

Alyssa Edwards brings her signature sparkle, sass, and storytelling magic to the Plaza Theatre on Sunday, April 12 at 7:30 pm with the Thanks for Everything Tour, a heartfelt and hilariously unfiltered journey through the life of one of drag’s most beloved icons. With a pre‑show party featuring Cazwell, the night promises big laughs, big personality, and the full force of Alyssa’s charm as she reflects on her rise, her roots, and her unforgettable message to RuPaul: “Thanks for everything.” Get tickets

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• Love! Valour! Compassion! – presented by Dezart Performs
  Apr 9–19
• Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival
  Apr 10–12 and April 17–19 at Empire Polo Club
• World Art Day
  Sat. Apr 11 from 10 am–2 pm at Downtown Palm Springs Park
• Coachella Valley Local Government Vendor Fair
  Wed. Apr 15 from 8:30 am–12 pm at the Palm Springs Convention Center
• Yappy Hour at the Riviera Resort & Spa
  Thu. Apr 16 from 4–6 pm in the Desert Rose Garden
• A Night to Remember Gala
  Fri. Apr 17 at 6 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa Rancho Mirage
• Sing Out! – presented by Modern Men
  Apr 17–19 at the Plaza Theatre
• Cabaret – presented by Desert Theatricals
  Apr 17–19 at the Rancho Mirage Amphitheater
• Kiss of the Spider Woman – presented by Palm Canyon Theatre
  Apr 17–26
• Palm Springs Speaks: Jennie Garth
  Tue. Apr 21 at 7:30 pm at the Plaza Theatre
• Saving Nature Film Festival
  Wed. Apr 22 (Earth Day) at the Palm Springs Cultural Center
• Dining Out For Life
  Thu. Apr 23 at restaurants throughout Greater Palm Springs
• Rhinestones & Rainbows – presented by Palm Springs Gay Men’s Chorus
  Apr 24–26 at the Plaza Theatre
• Stagecoach – California’s Country Music Festival
  Apr 24–26 at Empire Polo Club
• Metropolitan Fashion Week – “The Way You Look Tonight”
  Sun. Apr 26 at 5 pm at Frank Sinatra Twin Palms Estate
• Rock the Park: Listen to the Music (Doobie Brothers Tribute)
  Wed. May 6 at 7 pm at Downtown Palm Springs Park
• ShortFest Film Festival – Passes on Sale Now
  Jun 23–29 at Festival Theaters

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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