It’s not lost on many that the dichotomy of Pottersville and Bedford Falls in “It’s a Wonderful Life” is an allegory for the ages. Especially the age we are living in.
We get to see what the town would have been like if George Bailey hadn’t ever existed – instead of the heartfelt community spirit of Bedford Falls, we had the bleak and commercialized atmosphere of Pottersville. These cities showcase a stark contrast to what George’s life and contributions meant to the people around him, filled with seedy nightlife and shadowy dealings that prioritize profit over people. The absence of his kindness and dedication to helping others reveals a society where despair reigns, demonstrating just how crucial one person’s impact can be on an entire community’s fate.
Our president stands in nicely for bank president Mr. Potter, who asks, “Are you running a business or a charity ward? Not with my money!”
But who is our Jimmy Stewart? Who will not off themselves because of all the turmoil in the world and change the trajectory of our America? And what will be the aftermath? We’ve already had our taste of Pottersville.
CBS Sunday Morning did a piece on the movie and its origin in Seneca Falls, NY. The curator of the “It’s A Wonderful Life” museum was asked about the state of the world today. “It’s trying to be Mr. Potter’s world, I think. But I think there’s enough George Baileys out there that it’s gonna balance their direction.”
As Andy Borowitz wrote on Substack, “When this s**tshow is over, all the assets of the Trump family should be seized to pay for the reconstruction of the USA”. That certainly would go a long way to get our beloved Bedford-Falls America back.
Brad Fuhr, your K-Gay Desert Guide
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MON: Pops at the Plaza – The Most Wonderful Time of Year
Celebrate the season in style at the Plaza Theatre on Monday, December 22 at 7:30 pm with a heartwarming holiday concert from the Palm Springs Pops. This festive evening features beloved carols, pop favorites, and timeless classics performed by an all-star lineup including Lizzie Sosa, Carole J. Bufford, the Palm Springs Gay Men’s Chorus, Coachella Valley Classical Voices, and KESQ-TV’s Peter Daut. With storytelling, song, and a special visit from Santa, this joyful celebration promises to become Palm Springs’ newest holiday tradition. Get tickets
MON: The Female Form: Tom Wesselmann & Mickalene Thomas
The Palm Springs Art Museum presents The Female Form: Tom Wesselmann & Mickalene Thomas opening Monday, December 22 and running through Sunday, January 25. Drawn from the Collections of Jordan D. Schnitzer and His Family Foundation, this exhibition highlights how two groundbreaking artists have redefined the female nude and challenged its role in art history. More info
TUE–SUN: A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical
From Tuesday–Sunday, December 23–28, the McCallum Theatre hosts A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical, a high-energy celebration of one of America’s most iconic hitmakers. Created in collaboration with Neil Diamond himself, this inspiring Broadway-style production traces his journey from Brooklyn kid to global superstar, featuring beloved classics like “Sweet Caroline,” “America,” and “Forever in Blue Jeans.” Get tickets
TUE: Big Bad Voodoo Daddy – Wild N Swinging Holiday Party
Big Bad Voodoo Daddy brings their Wild N Swinging Holiday Party to the Plaza Theatre on Tuesday, December 23 at 7 pm. Celebrating 32 years of high-energy performances and horn-driven jazz, this legendary band delivers a festive fusion of swing, Dixieland, and holiday cheer. With a lineup of original members and a legacy that includes over 3,000 shows and appearances from Swingers to the Super Bowl Halftime Show, this concert is a jingle-bell-rocking night that’s pure vintage cool. Get tickets
WED: White Christmas Sing-A-Long
The Plaza Theatre invites guests to celebrate the season with a festive favorite, the White Christmas Sing-A-Long, on Wednesday, December 24 at3 pm. The dazzling song-and-dance duo of Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye team up with the sparkling sister act of Rosemary Clooney and Vera-Ellen for a heartwarming Christmas spectacular in snowy Vermont. This merry screening will include free jingle bells and a pre-film sing-a-long featuring some favorite Christmas classics. Get tickets
Christmas Eve and Day at The Purple Room
Celebrate Christmas Eve and Day in classic Palm Springs style at Michael Holmes’ Purple Room Supper Club, where elegance meets holiday cheer. On Wednesday and Thursday, December 24–25 from 6:30–9 pm, enjoy a festive three-course dinner featuring prime rib, Scottish salmon, vegan lasagna, and more, all set to the smooth sounds of the Kevin Tokarz Jazz Quartet. With vintage glamour, seasonal favorites, and an intimate supper club vibe, this holiday experience promises timeless charm. More info
FRI: Happy Birthday KGAY!
KGAY celebrates our 7th birthday this Christmas, marking seven years since the station first debuted its now‑beloved LGBTQ+ focused format at FM 106.5 on Wednesday, December 26, 2018. As KGAY steps proudly into its 8th year, we continue to champion Palm Springs’ vibrant community with the music, voices, and spirit that have made KGAY a local favorite from the very beginning.
FRI: A Holiday Celebration Starring Debbie Wileman as Judy Garland
On Friday, December 26 at 7:30 pm, the Plaza Theatre hosts We Need a Little Christmas: A Holiday Celebration starring Debbie Wileman in her acclaimed tribute to Judy Garland. Direct from London and fresh off her album I’m Still Here, Wileman channels Garland’s legendary voice in a festive concert filled with holiday classics and imagined favorites Judy might sing today. Get tickets
Holidays at the Tram
Celebrate the season at the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway with special holiday hours from Saturday, December 20 through Sunday, January 4, with the first tram up at 8 am and last tram down at 9:30 pm. On both Christmas Day and New Year’s Day, the Pines Café offers a Ride ’n’ Dine holiday meal featuring turkey, ham, or vegetarian lasagna. For a fine‑dining experience on Christmas Day, Peaks Restaurant. presents a special prix fixe menu with selections such as roasted duck, pan‑seared salmon, or filet mignon. Reservations are recommended for Peaks.
ENDS SUNDAY: Best of Desert Voting Round
The Desert Sun’s Best of Desert Community’s Choice Awards Voting Round runs now through Sunday, December 28. The top nominees in each category now compete for your daily votes to determine the winners. Please vote KGAY! When casting your ballot, choose “DJ Mod Girl” (our Modgirl Kellee McQuinn) for Entertainment & Leisure – People: Radio Personality/Show, and select KGAY 106.5 & 92.1 FM for Entertainment & Leisure – Radio Station (Local). Cast votes in 25 or more categories for a chance to win a $250 gift card! More info
Magic of Lights
The holiday season sparkles once again as Magic of Lights illuminates the Empire Polo Club in Indio through Wednesday, December 31. Families can enjoy a twinkling drive‑through light display and the enchanting Holiday Village powered by IID. Now in its fourth year, this beloved tradition transforms the Coachella Valley into a breathtaking winter wonderland, shining brightly under the desert stars. Get tickets
🍄 Ask a Gay Doc Episode 30: Therapeutic Mushrooms
Dr. Renzo Corzano and KGAY’s John Taylor are answering your health-related questions in the Ask A Gay Doc series, sponsored by Desert Oasis Healthcare. In Episode 30, John and Dr. Corzano interview Heather A. Lee, LCSW, a Licensed Psychedelic Psychotherapist on the therapeutic benefits of mushrooms.
Watch the Ask a Gay Doc series, and find out how you can submit your own questions, on the Ask a Gay Doc page at kgaypalmsprings.com.
KGAY Sweeps Best of Coachella Valley Readers’ Poll
KGAY 106.5/92.1 extends heartfelt thanks to the readers of the Coachella Valley Independent for their support in the annual “Best of Coachella Valley” poll! We are honored to be named Best Radio Station, a reflection of the trust and enthusiasm our listeners place in us. We are equally proud of our hosts whose community connection was recognized: John Taylor (1st Place, Best Local Radio Personality) and Modgirl (1st Place, Best Local DJ). We also celebrate Patrick Evans (2nd Place, Best Local Radio Personality), Chris Shebel (3rd Place, Best Local Radio Personality), 103.1 MeTV FM (3rd Place, Best Radio Station), DJ Galaxy (2nd Place, Best Local DJ), and DJ Eric Ornelas (3rd Place, Best Local DJ). Your continued support inspires us to serve the valley every day! See the complete list of Best of Coachella Valley Winners
Get Your 2025 KGAY Pride Shirt Online Now
If you weren’t able to get one of our T-Shirt Swaps in person at Palm Springs Pride, fear not! You can still show your Pride and support KGAY by grabbing the official 2025 KGAY Pride Shirt online. Featuring a bold, celebratory design in your choice of colors and styles (classic-T, tank top, sweatshirt, v-neck, fitted scoop, and more) this limited-edition design lets you rep Palm Springs Pride wherever you are. Shop now
ALSO THIS WEEK
Monday, December 22
Monday Night Bingo with Bella da Ball | 7–9 pm at the Ace Hotel
Hot Spot Trivia with Deven & Ned | 7–8:30 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs
Wednesday, December 24
Hot Spot Holiday Bingo with Deven & Ned | 7–8:30 pm at Agua Caliente Cathedral City
Thursday, December 25
VillageFest Street Fair | Cancelled for Christmas
Carousel Live Retro Music | Returns Jan. 8
Cabaret L’Amour | 7 pm at The Velvet Rope Hotel
Friday, December 26
Drag Bingo/Trivia Nights (alternating) | 4:30–7 pm at Arrive Hotel
Food Truck Fridays | 5–10 pm in Downtown Indio
Live Jazz with No Cover | 6–9:30 at The Purple Room
Saturday, December 27
Live Jazz with No Cover | 6–9:30 at The Purple Room
Dance Ranch: NEW YEARS: Beginner Shadow w/Rob Ollander-Krane | 7 pm at Step by Step
Modgirl’s Birthday Bash | 8 pm–2 am at The Red Barn
Sunday, December 28
A.M. Stream with Modgirl | 10 am–1 pm at Café la Jefa
Judy’s Old-Fashioned Christmas (SOLD OUT) | 5–8:30 pm at The Purple Room
Ongoing…
A Doublewide, Texas Christmas | through Dec 28 at Desert Theatreworks
Wildlights | select nights through Dec 30 at The Living Desert
Alpine Zoo Wildlights | Wed–Sundays through Jan 4 at Big Bear Alpine Zoo
Get our Latest 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. Look for the latest edition at businesses and newsstands around town, or browse it online right here!
THIS WEEKEND
Sinatra, Martin, Davis & Monroe Tribute
An Evening with the Rat Pack brings the magic of 1960s Las Vegas to life at The Show, Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa Rancho Mirage. On Saturday, December 27 at 8 pm, audiences will be transported to the legendary Sands Hotel nightclub as Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr., and Marilyn Monroe are celebrated in a dazzling tribute. Get tickets
Brad Williams – The Growth Spurt Tour
Brad Williams brings his Growth Spurt Tour to the Plaza Theatre on Saturday, December 27 at 7:30 pm for a night of razor-sharp stand-up and unstoppable energy. Known for his hit specials Fun Size and Daddy Issues, and praised by The New York Times as one of comedy’s most hilarious voices, Brad’s rapid-fire wit and fearless storytelling have earned him sold-out shows nationwide. Get tickets
Jim Brickman – The Gift of Christmas
Celebrate the season with Jim Brickman’s The Gift of Christmas at the Plaza Theatre on Sunday, December 28 at 3 pm. Known for heartfelt hits like “The Gift” and “Valentine,” Brickman brings his signature blend of piano, storytelling, and seasonal charm to this afternoon concert. Featuring beloved holiday classics and fan favorites, the performance promises a cozy, joy-filled experience perfect for closing out the year with warmth and wonder. Get tickets
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!
- The Female Form: Tom Wesselmann & Mickalene Thomas
Dec. 22–Jan. 25 at the Palm Springs Art Museum - Christmas Eve & Day at The Purple Room Supper Club
Wed. & Thu. Dec 24 & 25 - Magic of Lights
Now through Dec 31 at Empire Polo Club - Duran Duran – Invisible Days Tour
Tue. Dec 30 at 7:30 pm at Acrisure Arena - New Year’s Eve at The Purple Room Supper Club
Wed. Dec 31 seatings at 5 pm, 7:30 pm, and 10 pm - New Year’s Eve: Studio 2026 Glam Disco Party
Wed. Dec 31 at 9 pm at the Ace Hotel & Swim Club - THRESHOLD: Palm Springs’ Newest Signature New Year’s Eve Event
Wed. Dec 31 at 8 pm at The 4707 - Rock the Park: Bee Gees Forever
Wed. Jan 7 at Palm Springs Downtown Park - Palm Springs International Film Festival
Jan 2–13, 2026 – Passes on Sale Now - Palm Springs International Film Awards
Sat. Jan 3, 2026 – Tickets on Sale Now - Firebirds Pride Night at Acrisure Arena
Sat. Jan 10 2026 from 6–9 pm
The Avalon Hotel is a boutique getaway with grounds that reveal romantic pools and cabanas, a hidden spa, studios and suites, and historic bungalows. It’s just a block from the Design District, making it an easy walk to casual‑chic dining, shopping, and other entertainment. Learn more
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
This Weekend: MODGIRL’s Birthday Bash brings high‑energy fun to The Red Barn in Palm Desert on Saturday, December 27 at 8 pm. The next morning, catch Modgirl at A.M. Stream at Café La Jefa on Sunday, December 28 at 10 am!
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: Duran Duran & Firebirds
KGAY 106.5 and 92.1 are giving listeners the chance to WIN A PAIR OF TICKETS to two incredible back-to-back holiday events. On Tuesday, December 30, iconic 80s legends Duran Duran light up Acrisure Arena as they ring in 2026 following a summer of sold-out European shows [More info]. Then, on Wednesday, December 31, the Coachella Valley Firebirds take on Bakersfield in the final game of the year, complete with an early puck drop at 5 pm, party favors, and the largest indoor fireworks display in the Coachella Valley [More info]. Don’t miss this mid-week holiday celebration—Enter to WIN at the KGAY Contest Page
WIN Shaun Cassidy TICKETS
Shaun Cassidy takes the stage Saturday, January 3 at 8 pm at the Plaza Theatre [More info], and KGAY 106.5 and 92.1 are giving fans a chance to WIN A PAIR OF TICKETS to see the legendary teen idol live. With chart-topping hits like “Da Doo Ron Ron,” “That’s Rock ’n’ Roll,” and “Hey Deanie,” Cassidy’s performance promises a night of nostalgia and high-energy entertainment. Use code HOLIDAY to get 30% off your tickets or Enter to WIN at the KGAY Contest Page
WIN TICKETS to the Palm Springs International Film Festival
KGAY 106.5/92.1 and 103.1 MeTV FM are giving you the chance to WIN A PAIR OF TICKETS to see the film of your choice at the 37th Annual Palm Springs International Film Festival, running Friday, January 2 through Monday, January 12. Experience world premieres, special events, and more than 500 screenings from around the globe at the year’s biggest celebration of film. Enter to WIN on the KGAY and MeTV FM contest pages!
103.1 MeTV FM
‘Tis the Season! 103.1 MeTV FM brings you all of your Timeless & Memorable Christmas favorites! Bing Crosby, Mariah Carey, Elvis, Wham, Brenda Lee & more! Brought to you by Palm Springs Ace Hardware, Palm Springs Holidays, Fantasy Springs Resort Casino, Stuft Pizza, Skylark Bar, Home Instead Home Care Services, HR Simplistic & Insurance Simplistic and Contour Dermatology. Listen to MeTV FM in your car, at work, at home or around the world, online at 1031metvfm.com or tell Alexa, “Open 103.1 MeTV FM.”
- Desert Stonewall Democrats Praise Palm Desert Council for Affirming LGBTQ+ Equality
- Remembering Rob Reiner: Legacy, Activism, and the Questions Left Unasked by Bruce Fessier
- Top LGBTQ+ Shows to Stream This Holiday Season Across Major Platforms
- Explore the New Tukut Trail: Your New Year Hiking Guide to Whitewater Preserve
- Palm Springs International Airport Prepares for Peak Holiday Travel With Expanded Services and Traveler Tips
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 2025-2026 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.