A bit dog-eared and slightly faded, I have a memento of a Pride mixer from 2018 when D.E.I. was a thing. US bank was holding a DBA mixer at its Palm Springs branch, and had a series of wooden mini clipboards with various quotes that we could take with us.
“Our lives begin and end the day we become silent about things that matter” reads the quote from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. I’ve had this on display in my various offices since then – but now it takes on urgent and new meaning as we navigate troubled waters.
Saturday’s “Hands Off!” protests marked the largest day of public opposition to Trump (and Musk) during his second term. Our Coachella Valley citizens showed up by the thousands with a kick off by KGAY’s John Taylor at the protest march at Palm Springs City Hall.
But wait, there’s more!
The grassroots organization 50501 has announced plans for nationwide protests on April 19th. The group is mobilizing resistance in all 50 states, demanding a stand against what they describe as a creeping fascist takeover.
Social media platforms are buzzing with calls for participation, with 50501 emphasizing the critical mass needed for real change. They’ve set a target of 3.5% of the US population – over 11 million people.
The call for 3.5% participation draws from research by Erica Chenoweth, which indicates that nonviolent movements reaching this threshold have historically been highly effective. Historian and “On Tyranny” author Timothy Snyder, in his warnings against authoritarianism, has emphasized the importance of such mass mobilization in defending democratic institutions
The April 19th protests are being framed as a direct response to the Trump administration’s “hostile government takeover.” Organizers are urging progressives, activists, and all those concerned about the future of democracy to join the nationwide demonstrations, signaling a potential turning point in the struggle against Trump’s agenda.
We will not be silent, Dr. King. Thank you for the reminder!
Brad Fuhr, your Gay Desert Guide on KGAY 106.5 Palm Springs
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TUE/THU/SAT: Broadway’s Brightest Stars at the McCallum
The Broadway’s Brightest Stars series at the McCallum Theatre brings an extraordinary lineup of talent to Palm Desert. On Tuesday, April 8 from 7–9 pm, Renée Elise Goldsberry, celebrated for her Tony-winning performance as Angelica Schuyler in Hamilton, takes the stage. Known for her powerful voice and dynamic acting, Goldsberry promises an evening highlighting her extensive career in Broadway hits like Rent and The Lion King, as well as her television and film achievements. Get tickets
On Thursday, April 10 from 7–9 pm, Brian Stokes Mitchell, hailed by The New York Times as “the last leading man,” enchants audiences with his stunning vocal versatility, drawing on his Broadway success and a career that spans music genres and prestigious venues [Get tickets]. Finally, on Saturday, April 12 from 8–10 pm, Leslie Odom, Jr., best known for his Tony- and Grammy-winning role as Aaron Burr in Hamilton, delivers a remarkable performance featuring his signature blend of Broadway classics and original music. Get tickets
Also this week at the McCallum Theatre: On Monday, April 7 at 7 pm, Yo-Yo Ma brings a profound evening of music and reflection, exploring the meaning of art, human nature, and hope through his iconic repertoire. Then, on Friday, April 11 at 8 pm, Broadway and recording star Linda Eder graces the stage with her extraordinary vocal versatility, seamlessly moving through Broadway, standards, jazz, and more in a captivating one-night-only concert. Get tickets
TUE: Tastes & Sounds of Cathedral City
On Tuesday, April 8, from 5:30–7:30 pm, join the Tastes & Sounds of Cathedral City at the Cathedral City Community Amphitheater for an evening of music from Leanna & Miguel on Congas with food from Nick’s Bistro. This free weekly event is a wonderful way to connect with the community, savor great food and music in a beautiful outdoor setting. More info
WED: KGAY Night with the Firebirds
Join the excitement of KGAY Night with the Firebirds on Wednesday, April 9 from 7–9 pm at Acrisure Arena as the Coachella Valley Firebirds face off against the San Jose Barracuda! Enjoy the lively atmosphere with your favorite KGAY personalities and fans, plus $5 beer specials at select locations. From thrilling ice action to surprises like Zamboni rides and puck drops, this promises to be a night of fun and community spirit. Get tickets
FRI: Joslyn in Bloom
Celebrate style and community at the Joslyn Center’s 15th Annual Joslyn in Bloom Fashion Show Luncheon on Friday, April 11 from 11 am–2 pm at Agua Caliente Resort Casino Spa Rancho Mirage. Honoring Desert Oasis Healthcare with the Merritt & Penny Joslyn Award, this event supports vital programs for older adults in the Coachella Valley. Enjoy a sparkling wine reception, silent auction, a delightful luncheon, and a stunning fashion show featuring designs curated by Susan Stein. Embrace the “Garden of Earthly Delights” theme in your best garden party attire. Get tickets
FRI: Cocktails on the Page at Piazza di Liberace
Step back in time at Cocktails on the Page on Friday, April 11 from 5–7 pm at the historic Piazza di Liberace. Hosted by the Palm Springs Public Library Foundation, this elegant event features cocktails, light appetizers, and a special appearance by author Rufi Thorpe, who will discuss her latest novel, Margo’s Got Money Troubles. Each guest receives a copy of the book, which can be autographed at the event. Get tickets
FRI: Agua Caliente Celebrates 30 Years with Pat Benatar + Neil Giraldo
Agua Caliente Casinos celebrates 30 years of exceptional gaming in the Coachella Valley with year-round festivities, including world-class entertainment, exciting giveaways, and engaging promotions. Enjoy performances across venues like The Show in Rancho Mirage, the Cascade Lounge in Palm Springs, and the Agave Caliente Terraza in Cathedral City. Highlights include Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo live on Friday, April 11 at 8 pm in the outdoor space at Agua Caliente Palm Springs. With multi-platinum albums, Grammy wins, and iconic hits like “Love Is a Battlefield,” “We Belong,” and “Invincible” this legendary duo promises an electrifying night. Get tickets
FRI: The AIDS Quilt Songbook
The CSUSB Opera Theatre will present The AIDS Quilt Songbook at the CSUSB Palm Desert Campus on Friday, April 11 from 7–9 pm. This poignant production honors lives impacted by AIDS, weaving songs and poems that confront stigma while celebrating resilience and remembrance. Directed by Stacey Fraser with music direction by Alastair Edmonstone, the performance features newly composed works, choreography, and guest artists. Get tickets
THEATRE
The Diary of Anne Frank
Desert Theatreworks presents a powerful new adaptation of The Diary of Anne Frank at the Blackbox Theater, running April 4–13. This production weaves survivor accounts with excerpts from Anne Frank’s diary, presenting a modern, emotionally charged portrayal of the Nazi era. Set in a hidden attic where eight individuals seek refuge, this adaptation captures their daily struggles and celebrates Anne’s enduring message of resilience and hope. Get tickets
The Cake
Join The Bent Theatre Company for their production of The Cake from April 4–12, at the Palm Springs Cultural Center. This heartfelt and timely dramatic comedy, written by Tony-nominated playwright Bekah Brunstetter and directed by Kudra Wagner, tells the story of Della, a conservative North Carolina baker, who faces a moral dilemma when Jen, someone she loves like a daughter, asks her to bake a cake for her lesbian wedding. Get tickets
Hairspray
Desert Theatricals presents Hairspray at the Rancho Mirage Amphitheatre from Friday, April 11–Sunday, April 13. This eight-time Tony Award-winning musical is packed with laughter, romance, and catchy tunes, following Tracy Turnblad’s journey from an outcast teen to a star on the “Corny Collins Show” in 1962 Baltimore. With a mission to win hearts, challenge norms, and integrate a TV network, Tracy’s story is a delightful celebration of change, resilience, and rhythm. Get tickets
Desert X
Explore the fifth edition of Desert X in the Coachella Valley now through May 11. This outdoor art exhibition delves into the nonlinear narratives of time, with 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
ALSO THIS WEEK
Tuesday, April 8
Screening of October 8 | 7 pm at the Tolerance Education Center
Thursday, April 10
VillageFest | 6–10 pm in Downtown Palm Springs
The Totally Ridiculous Gameshow | 7 pm at Dietlart Gallery
Friday, April 11
Food Truck Fridays | 5–10 pm in Downtown Indio
Saturday, April 12
Parkinson’s Awareness Month Wellness Expo | 10 am–12:30 pm at Eisenhower Medical Center
Mojave Sun Coachella pre-game | 11 am–3 pm at Royal Sun Palm Springs
Father and Son – Piolo Pascual and Inigo Pascual | 7 pm at Palm Springs Convention Center
Country Dance Saturdays: Beginner Two Step with Lise Baadh | 7 pm at Step by Step
Comedian Ron White | 8 pm at The Show
Coachella Valley Firebirds v. Bakersfield Condors | 6 pm at Acrisure Arena
Sunday, April 13
Sunrise Sips and Sounds at Cafe La Jefa | 10 am–noon
Coachella Essentials Pop-Up Shop | 11 am–4 pm at JW Marriott Desert Springs
40th Anniversary Celebration of The Times of Harvey Milk (SOLD OUT) | 2 pm at Palm Springs Cultural Center
Coachella Valley Firebirds v. San Diego Gulls | 5 pm at Acrisure Arena
A MESSAGE FROM PALM SPRINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY FOUNDATION
The Palm Springs Public Library
is approaching its 50th anniversary!
We embark on an ambitious multi-million dollar transformation to create a world-class institution that will engage, enlighten and empower Palm Springs residents for generations to come. Partner with Us. Sign up today to stay up to date on this historic project. When you do you’ll be entered to win Two Tickets to Cocktails on the Page.
Sign up here
THIS WEEKEND
Coachella
The Coachella Music and Arts Festival (aka “Coachella”) returns to the Empire Polo Club in Indio, for two weekends, April 11–13 and April 18–20. Headliners Lady Gaga, Green Day, and Post Malone lead an incredible lineup that also includes Megan Thee Stallion, Charli XCX, Ed Sheeran, Weezer, Benson Boone and Missy Elliott among dozens of others. With performances spanning multiple genres and stages, the festival promises something for every music lover. Attendees can enjoy immersive art installations, interactive activities, and unique culinary experiences, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Coachella Valley. Over 125,000 attendees are expected to join this celebration of music, art, and culture! Get tickets (Yes, they are still available!)
Modern Men: The ’70s Show
Step back into the groovy sounds of the ’70s with Modern Men Coachella Valley Men’s Chorus as they present The ’70s Show at the Palm Springs Cultural Center. Performances take place Friday, April 11 at 7 pm, Saturday, April 12 at 7 pm, and Sunday, April 13 at 3 pm. Enjoy nostalgic hits from The Carpenters, ABBA, James Taylor, Donna Summer, and more, celebrating the music that defined a decade. Dust off your disco gear and get ready for a journey through the soundtrack of the ’70s. Get tickets
World Art Day Festival
Celebrate creativity and community at the World Art Day Festival on Saturday, April 12 from 10 am–2 pm at Downtown Park Palm Springs. This free, family-friendly event honors diversity and inclusion through the arts, featuring live entertainment, interactive art projects, hands-on activities, artist demos, and more. Explore a student art gallery, enjoy food vendors, and watch captivating performances in a joyful, welcoming atmosphere. More info
House Party PS: Lights! Camera! Action!
Step into Hollywood’s golden age at House Party PS: Lights! Camera! Action! on Saturday, April 12 from 5–8 pm in the elegant Deepwell neighborhood of Palm Springs. Hosted by the Richmond/Ermet Aid Foundation alongside Michael Norpell and Bryan Fisher, this cocktail soirée features dazzling entertainment, including singer/songwriter Spencer Day, singer/actress Kim Schroeder Long, and a Marilyn Monroe impersonator, all emceed by the fabulous Bella da Ball. Enjoy wine, cocktails, and appetizers from F/10 Catering as you mix and mingle under the desert stars. Get tickets
Palm Springs International Piano Competition
From Friday, April 11–Monday, April 21, the Coachella Valley becomes the stage for the Palm Springs International Piano Competition, where 25 remarkable young pianists will compete for over $30,000 in prizes. Preliminary rounds at Temple Isaiah will showcase extraordinary talent, leading to the grand Concerto Finals at the McCallum Theatre on April 21. The stakes include the $10,000 Gold Medal prize, a recording with Yamaha Artist Services New York, and career-defining performance opportunities through 2025–27. Get tickets
Flagging in the Desert
Flagging in the Desert returns to Ruth Hardy Park on Saturday, April 12 from 11:30 am–3:30 pm. DJ Rob Kaftan will set the stage with vibrant music for dancing, flagging, or simply enjoying the atmosphere. While free to attend, donations are encouraged to support the local charity Loving All Animals. The event also features a silent auction of donated flags, and an instructional class at 10:30 am for those who want to learn flagging techniques. More info
Sound & Vision 2025 Closing Reception
Celebrate creativity at the Sound & Vision 2025 Closing Reception on Saturday, April 12 from 5–8 pm at MAD.KAT Gallery. Discover the visual art of 17 recording artists and enjoy a live performance of jazz standards by Manhattan Transfer’s Cheryl Bentyne. Don’t miss this inspiring finale! 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!
- Premium Bourbon Tasting
Mon. Apr 7 at 6 pm at The Purple Room Supper Club - Renée Elise Goldsberry – Broadway’s Brightest Stars Series
Tue. Apr 8 at 7 pm at the McCallum Theatre - Tastes & Sounds of Cathedral City: Leanna & Miguel on Congas + Nick’s Bistro
Tue. Apr 8 at 5:30 pm at Cathedral City Amphitheater - KGAY Night with the Coachella Valley Firebirds
Wed. Apr 9 at 7 pm at Acrisure Arena - Brian Stokes Mitchell – Broadway’s Brightest Stars Series
Thu. Apr 10 at 7 pm at the McCallum Theatre - The Diary of Anne Frank, presented by Desert Theatreworks
Apr 4–13 - The Cake, presented by THE BENT Theatre Co.
Apr 4–12 at the Palm Springs Cultural Center - Desert X 2025
Mar 8–May 12 at Various Locations Throughout Coachella Valley - Modern Men: The ’70s Show
Apr 11, 12 & 13 at the Palm Springs Cultural Center - Hairspray, presented by Desert Theatricals
Apr 11, 12 & 13 at Rancho Mirage Amphitheater - PS Library Foundation – Cocktails on the Page
Fri. Apr 11 from 5–7 pm at the Piazza di Liberace - World Art Day Festival
Sat. Apr 12 from 10 am–2 pm at Palm Springs Downtown Park - House Party PS: Lights! Camera! Action! – Celebrating Stars of the Silver Screen
Sat. Apr 12 from 5–8 pm, Deepwell Estates, Palm Springs - Leslie Odom, Jr. – Broadway’s Brightest Stars Series
Sat. Apr 12 at 8 pm at the McCallum Theatre - Coachella Valley Local Government Vendor Fair
Wed. Apr 16 from 8:30 am–12:30 pm - Glow with Pride at the Living Desert Zoo & Gardens
Thu. Apr 17 from 6:30–10 pm - Tusk – The Ultimate Fleetwood Mac Tribute with The Desert Symphony
Thu. Apr 17 at 8 pm at the McCallum Theatre - Beyond Therapy, presented by Desert Ensemble Theatre
Apr 18–27 at the Palm Springs Cultural Center - 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 - Retro Palm Springs – A Nostalgic ’90s Fan Convention
Sat. & Sun. May 3 & 4 at the Palm Springs Convention Center - Cinco de Mayo Arenas District Fiesta
Sun. May 4 from 2–10 pm - 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 - Straight From Carnegie Hall: Lea Michele Live
Fri. May 30 at 8 pm at the McCallum Theatre - Palm Springs International ShortFest
Jun 24–30 at Festival Theatres and Renaissance Palm Springs
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
KGAY 106.5 & 92.1 are giving you the chance to WIN TICKETS to Falsettos, presented by Dezart Performs from April 18–27 at the Pearl McManus Theater [More info].This Tony Award-winning musical is a witty and poignant tale of family, love, and resilience, set against the backdrop of bar mitzvahs, baseball, and the AIDS crisis. Falsettos is a must-see production that will leave audiences both laughing and moved. Enter to WIN on the KGAY Contest Page
KGAY 106.5 & 92.1 invite you to WIN TICKETS to KGAY Night Glow with Pride at the Living Desert Zoo on Thursday, April 17 at 6:30 pm [More info]. Celebrate LGBTQ+ joy with dazzling lights, fierce performances, and a dance floor where your authentic self is the star. This 21+ event is more than a party—it’s a defiant reminder to shine brighter than ever. Let your pride roar in this evening of light, love, and community! 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! NEW: Listen for Brad Fuhr 9a-2p and Paul Ciliano from 2–6 pm Saturdays on 103.1 MeTV FM ! Listen online
103.1 MeTV FM is giving you the chance to WIN TICKETS to Tusk – The Ultimate Fleetwood Mac Tribute, presented by The Desert Symphony on Thursday, April 17 at 8 pm at the McCallum Theatre [More info]. Since 2008, Tusk has wowed audiences nationwide with their spot-on renditions of Fleetwood Mac’s greatest hits, perfectly capturing the sound, chemistry, and iconic energy of the original band. Enter to WIN on the 103.1 MeTV FM Contest Page
- Kimsooja Floods Coachella Valley in Iridescent Light With Glass Installation at Desert X
- Preserving and Reimagining Modernism: A Closer Look at the Critical Role of Architectural Photography
- New Sitcom Captures Palm Springs Style from a Burbank Soundstage
- Your Guide to After-Parties and Experiences During Coachella Festival and Stagecoach
- Palm Springs Plans Convention Center District with Downtown Connections to Maintain Competitive Edge
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.