Tequila or THC. Which is worse for you? With all the political turmoil, it’s tempting to numb the “pain” with alcohol or drugs. (We won’t know how usage rates went up post-election for some time, but I have my theories…)
In a Wall Street Journal article titled, “Booze or Weed: What’s Worse for Your Health?”, the answer is both.
“The reality is, if you’re really worried about your health, you wouldn’t use either of them,” says Ryan Vandrey, a professor at Johns Hopkins University who helps run the Cannabis Science Lab.
And that’s no surprise, as we’ve heard study after study tell us the downsides of drinking. Wine was suppose to be better, but that’s been recently debunked. And weed especially as gummies can help with sleep and anxiety. “Cannabis may be lower in calories than alcohol but both substances can have the net effect of causing people to eat more, the so-called munchies,” according to the article.
Mushrooms are also gaining favor, even among CEO’s. I read an article about a Canadian former CEO now leading retreats for others in the boardroom who trip for the betterment of their companies. Many report coming away “enlightened”. Sounds intriguing, but I think I’ll stay with my regiment of Manhattans and Malbec. And maybe an occasional gummy.
Brad Fuhr, your Gay Desert Guide on KGAY 106.5 Palm Springs
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Soak, Sip & Paint
The Coachella Valley Cannabis Alliance Network (CVCAN) is hosting a “Soak, Sip & Paint” event on Monday, February 10 from 4–8 pm at the Miracle Springs Resort in Desert Hot Springs. Guests can enjoy a rejuvenating soak in the mineral-rich pools, followed by a delightful tasting of fine wines and THC-infused cocktails. The highlight of the event is a guided painting session where attendees can unleash their inner artist with the help of an experienced instructor. Get tickets
DBA Mixer at Low Desert Modern Mexican
Join the Desert Business Association for the February DBA Mixer at Low Desert/Modern Mexican on Monday, February 10 from 5:30–7 pm. This event offers an evening of networking and delicious food. Enjoy a variety of standard Mexican dishes, as well as unique vegan and vegetarian options. DBA members attend for free, while future members can join for $20. Those who stay for dinner after the event will receive 10% off of their meal. More info
All About Bette
All About Bette: An Interlude with Bette Davis starring Morgana Shaw takes the stage one night only at the Palm Springs Cultural Center on Tuesday, February 11 from 7–9 pm. This show pays tribute to Hollywood’s Golden Age, featuring a mesmerizing performance that explores the life, loves, and legacy of Bette Davis, the fearless actress who changed the course of cinema. Shaw’s spellbinding portrayal captures Davis’s wit, fire, and vulnerability, making this an unforgettable evening of drama, glamour, and storytelling. Get tickets
The Children’s Hour – A Staged Reading
THE BENT presents a staged reading of The Children’s Hour on Tuesday and Wednesday, February 11 & 12 at 7 pm. This playreading series features the 1934 groundbreaking lesbian play by Lillian Hellman. Set in an all-girls boarding school, an accusation of a lesbian affair leads to the destruction of two headmistresses’ careers, relationships, and lives. Despite being nearly 90 years old, this powerful story remains relevant today. Get tickets
Red Dress Tickets on Sale Wednesday
Don’t miss the highly anticipated Red Dress/Dress Red Dance Party on Saturday, March 15 from 8 pm–Midnight at the Palm Springs Air Museum. Tickets go on sale on Wednesday, February 12 and are expected to sell out fast, so set your alarm! This event, featuring a stunning venue and a great cause, has become a highlight of the Palm Springs social scene, raising support for The LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert’s programs. Dress in red to show unity, solidarity, and community, and get ready for an unforgettable night. More info
Modernism Week 2025
Modernism Week is set to celebrate its 20th anniversary from February 13–23. This 11-day festival in Palm Springs will feature over 400 events, including the popular Palm Springs Modernism Show, home tours of historic neighborhoods, and the Palm Springs Signature Home Tour. Attendees can look forward to double-decker bus tours, architectural walking, biking, and bus tours, visits to the Annenberg Estate at Sunnylands, a vintage trailer show, a classic car show, garden tours, and nightly parties. The event will also include live presentations, historic films, and talks from experts, providing an in-depth exploration of modernist architecture. Many events are free or low-cost, ensuring everyone can experience the beauty and history of midcentury modern architecture. More info
Palm Springs Modernism Show
The Palm Springs Modernism Show runs from Friday, February 14 to Monday, February 17 at the Palm Springs Convention Center. Featuring 135 national and international exhibitors, this event showcases the best in midcentury and modern design, all available for purchase. The Show opens with a festive Opening Night Party on Friday, February 14, from 6–9 pm, with open bar, hors d’oeuvres, a show catalog, live music, and early access to shopping. The Show continues through the weekend: Saturday, February 15 from 10 am–6 pm; Sunday, February 16 from 10 am–5 pm; and Monday, February 17 from 10 am–4 pm. There will be a free Classic Car Show on Monday from 12 pm – 3 pm in front of the convention center. Get tickets
Tastes & Sounds of Cathedral City
Join the lively celebration at the Tastes & Sounds of Cathedral City on Tuesday, February 11 from 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm at the Cathedral City Community Amphitheater. This free weekly event combines live music and delicious food, featuring local artists and restaurants. On this evening, enjoy the musical talents of Daytime Moon while savoring tasty dishes from Taqueria Copacabana. It’s a wonderful opportunity to connect with the community in a scenic outdoor setting and indulge in great food and music. This vibrant event series is scheduled every Tuesday through April 8. More info
This Week at the McCallum Theatre
This week at the McCallum Theatre is packed with extraordinary performances. On Monday, February 10 at 7 pm, immerse yourself in the powerful drumming of Kodo as they explore the traditional Japanese taiko drums. Tuesday, February 11 at 7 pm, GRAMMY®-winning violinist Joshua Bell and vocalist Larisa Martínez, accompanied by pianist Peter Dugan, present a diverse repertoire ranging from classical pieces to musical theatre in their program “Voice and the Violin.” Wednesday, February 12 at 7 pm, “Palm Springs Legends” showcases tribute artists portraying iconic stars like Frank Sinatra, Liza Minnelli, Kenny Rogers, and more. Thursday, February 13 at 8 pm, the Desert Symphony brings “Ones – The Beatles #1 Hits,” an exciting tribute show featuring every number one song from The Ed Sullivan Show to the Apple Rooftop, complete with stunning visuals and period-accurate instrumentation. On Friday, February 14 at 8 pm and Saturday, February 15 at 2 pm & 8 pm, “George Gershwin Alone” tells the story of the legendary composer with performances of his best-known songs, including a complete rendition of “Rhapsody in Blue.” Finally, on Sunday, February 16 at 3 pm, Jeffrey Siegel’s “Schubert: Subtle and Sublime” offers an enchanting exploration of Franz Schubert’s music through performances of waltzes, impromptus, and sonatas. Get tickets
Black History Month at the Palm Springs Art Museum
On Thursday, February 13 from 5:30–8 pm at the Palm Springs Art Museum for Conversation: Black Perspectives on Palm Springs Architecture & Housing. This in-depth panel, part of Black History Month, will be led by Jerald Cooper of Hood Century, featuring Dieter Crawford, Founder and CEO of Urban Palm Springs, and LaVera Hoyes, a Section 14 survivor. More info
Welcome, Gay Pilots Association
The National Gay Pilots Association’s Palm Springs Winter Warm-Up takes place this Thursday–Sunday, February 13–16 in Palm Springs. As the largest annual gathering for the NGPA, the Winter Warm-Up offers a unique mid-winter retreat for pilots, aviation professionals, and flying fans alike. More info
Honky Tonk Angels
Desert Theatreworks presents Honky Tonk Angels, a musical extravaganza, from February 1–March 30 at the Black Box Theatre. This lively show features three fearless women from diverse backgrounds chasing their dreams to Nashville. With 30 timeless country hits like “Stand By Your Man,” “9 to 5,” and “Harper Valley PTA,” this toe-tapping journey celebrates sisterhood, resilience, and the power of music. Get tickets
ALSO THIS WEEK
Wednesday, February 12
Desert Candlelight Series: Barry Allen Cohen | 6 pm at Mary Pickford Theater
Friday, February 14 – Valentine’s Day
Ride ‘n’ Dine for Valentine’s Day | After 4 pm at the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
Elizabeth “Beth” Edwards – Walk of the Stars Ceremony | 2 pm at 300 S. Palm Canyon Dr.
Saturday, February 15
The Protagonists: New Works by Eric Rewitzer | 4 pm at James Bacchi Contemporary
Celebrating Modernism Week at Artier Fine Art Gallery | 6–9 pm
Country Dance Saturdays: Beginner Two Step with Jan Alden | 7 pm at Step by Step
Sunday, February 16
Palm Springs Vintage Market Modernism Week Edition | 7 am–2 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs
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!
THIS WEEKEND
Out at the Fair® – Riverside County Fair and National Date Festival
The Riverside County Fair & National Date Festival runs from Thursday, February 13–Sunday, March 2, at the fairgrounds in Indio. This beloved festival, celebrating the end of the annual date harvest, draws over 250,000 guests each February. Now in its 77th year, the event focuses on community and delicious date-themed treats, with highlights including a dedicated date-tasting booth featuring ‘Date Flights’ and over forty unique date items from various food vendors. Be sure to try the unique offerings like date al pastor tacos, date-topped cinnamon rolls, and the crowd-favorite date beer-battered corn dogs!
Celebrate community and inclusivity at the 3rd Annual Out at the Fair (OATF) at the Riverside County Fair & National Date Festival on Saturday, February 15. This all-day event on the Pageant Stage features exciting performances and activities, kicking off at 11 am, featuring emcees Alexander Rodriguez and Landa Plenty. The diverse lineup includes Zumba class, live music from bands like Arena Red Band and KINGQUEEN, and the first LGBTQ+ Mariachi Band, Mariachi Arco-Iris de Los Angeles. Attendees can also enjoy The Glam Show featuring RuPaul’s Drag Race star Scarlet Envy and other talented drag performers. The event wraps up with the Date Pageant at 7:30 pm and an all-ages dance party with DJ Lotus at 8:30 pm. Join the fun and celebrate diversity at this vibrant and inclusive event! More info
OATF Bingo with Deven & Ned
Come join the fun at Out at the Fair® Bingo with the fabulous Deven Green and her co-host, Ned, on Saturday, February 15 from 1:30–3 pm. Held in The Shalimar Building, this lively event promises a hilarious and eco-friendly experience with 100% digital bingo. More info
The Velvet Rope Open House
The Velvet Rope Open House, a featured event during Modernism Week, takes place on Friday–Sunday, February 14–16, from 11 am–4 pm. This special occasion celebrates the legacy of Herbert W. Burns, a renowned designer who created stunning homes and boutique hotels in Palm Springs. The event pays homage to the golden era of Hollywood, honoring classic actors who once resided in the iconic Old Las Palmas neighborhood. Explore the beautifully designed rooms of a majestic 10-bedroom boutique hotel, showcasing vintage charm with glamorous Hollywood Regency renovations by celebrity designer David Rios. Experience a day of design, history, and nostalgia as you step into the glamour of mid-century Palm Springs. Get tickets
Racist Trees Documentary Screening
Catch the powerful screening of Racist Trees on Sunday, February 16 from 3–5 pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center. This impactful documentary delves into the controversy surrounding a wall of tamarisk trees that separated a predominantly Black neighborhood in Palm Springs, highlighting the community’s struggle with segregation and feelings of isolation. Sponsored by the Coachella Valley Journalism Foundation and the Palm Springs Black History Committee, the screening will be followed by a panel discussion with the film’s producers, residents of the Crossley neighborhood, and the editor of The Desert Sun. Get tickets
Avenue Q
Revolution Stage Company presents Avenue Q from February 7–21. This Tony Award-winning musical brings its irreverent humor and quirky characters back to life, offering a hilarious and touching look at the trials and triumphs of adulthood. Follow Princeton, a bright-eyed college grad, as he navigates life with his colorful neighbors, including Kate Monster, Rod, Nicky, and the unforgettable duo of Trekkie Monster and Lucy the Slut. With catchy songs like “It Sucks to Be Me” and “Everyone’s a Little Bit Racist,” this unique blend of puppetry and live actors explores love, friendship, and finding purpose. Get tickets
Perfect Arrangement
THE BENT presents Perfect Arrangement from February 6–16 at the Palm Springs Cultural Center. Inspired by the true story of the earliest stirrings of the gay rights movement. This hard to believe but historically accurate tale merges madcap sitcom-style laughs with provocative drama as two closeted U.S. State Department employees struggle to maintain their cover – and their sanity – in 1950s America, a world recently depicted in Matt Bomer’s Fellow Travelers. These married co-workers not only share a secret, they are also next door neighbors who share a wall. Get tickets
Gay Softball Tryouts
Join the Palm Springs Gay Softball League for their Spring 2025 tryouts and clinics on Saturday, February 15 at 9 am. Held at DeMuth Park in Palm Springs on Field #7, these clinics welcome all players, regardless of identity or experience. Meet new friends, assess your skill level, and get assigned to a team that matches your abilities. Whether you’re a beginner, haven’t played in a long time, or want to play competitively, there’s a place for you in the league. More info
Bosom Buddies Starring Sherry Vine & Billy L’Amour
Get ready for a night of glamour and laughs at Toucans in Palm Springs on Saturday, February 15 at 7 pm with “Bosom Buddies,” starring Sherry Vine and Billy L’Amour! This brand-new, all-live-singing drag revue combines old-school Hollywood glam with sassy and naughty drag comedy. Featuring hilarious song parodies and scintillating choreography, the show includes songs from icons like Marilyn Monroe to contemporary artists like Chappell Roan. This dynamic duo promises an evening filled with unforgettable entertainment and SHELarious fun. Get tickets
The Odd Couple (Female Version)
Desert Theatreworks presents Neil Simon’s The Odd Couple, reimagined to its female version, from February 14–March 2 at Blackbox Theater. Join Olive Madison and Florence Unger and their group of girlfriends for their weekly Trivial Pursuit night in Olive’s cluttered apartment. When freshly dumped Florence arrives, Olive invites her to move in, what could go wrong? Everything! Total opposites, Olive’s laid-back demeanor clashes with Florence’s neurotic cleanliness, putting their friendship to the test. Get tickets
Have a Heart for Homeless Pets Drag Bingo Fundraiser
Join Animal Samaritans at Dick’s on Arenas for the Have a Heart for Homeless Pets Drag Bingo Fundraiser on Saturday, February 15 from 2–4 pm. Support the No Kill Shelter while enjoying an afternoon of entertaining Bingo rounds with fellow animal lovers. Hosted by Sister Burna Cross, this fabulous event promises fun and camaraderie for a great cause. More info
Broadway’s Best in the West: Stephanie J. Block
Broadway’s Best in the West at the Palm Springs Cultural Center features Stephanie J. Block on Saturday, February 15 at 7 pm. Block has established herself as one of the most relevant and versatile voices in contemporary musical theatre. She won the 2019 Tony Award® for Best Leading Actress in a Musical, as well as winning The Drama Desk Award and Outer Critics Award for her STAR turn in The Cher Show. Upcoming in the Best in the West series: Max Von Essen (3/15). Get tickets
Christopher Kennedy Midcentury Home Tour
Don’t miss the chance to join acclaimed interior designer Christopher Kennedy for an exclusive home tour in support of the Palm Springs Animal Shelter on Saturday, February 15 from 1–3 pm. Attendees will tour a stunning 5,000-square-foot ground-up construction designed by Kennedy and get a preview of his plans for the transformation of a newly acquired “Before” home. Enjoy a bubbly reception at the “Before” home and envision its incredible potential. Get tickets
Rolling Stones Tribute at The Gardens on El Paseo
The Gardens on El Paseo 27th Annual Concert Series continues on Saturday, February 15 at 4 pm with Jumping Jack Flash (Rolling Stones Tribute), benefiting Parade Charities. Reserve your tickets now and wine down on the Center Lawn, Saturday evenings to support your community. Upcoming benefit shows include: John Stanley King Band (2/22), Jimmy Buffett Tribute (3/1), and Rod Stewart Tribute (3/8). Get tickets
LOOKING AHEAD
Sazerac Premium Bourbon Tasting
Join the Purple Room on Monday, February 17 from 6–8 pm for the Bourbon Bar Sazerac Premium Bourbon Tasting. Experience a curated bourbon journey with Casey Becker from Sazerac, featuring some of the most sought-after and hardest-to-find whiskies in the world. Enjoy light hors d’oeuvres and sip good bourbon with good company! 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!
- Soak, Sip & Paint at Miracle Springs Resort
Mon. Feb 10 from 4–8 pm - All About Bette, An Interlude with Bette Davis with Morgana Shaw
Tue. Feb 11 at 7 pm at Palm Springs Cultural Center - Tastes and Sounds of Cathedral City
Feb 11–Apr 8, Tuesdays from 5:30–7:30 pm at Cathedral City Amphitheater - The Children’s Hour, a Staged Reading presented by THE BENT
Tue. & Wed., Feb 11 & 12 - The Desert Symphony: Ones – The Beatles #1 Hits
Thu. Feb 13 at 8 pm at the McCallum Theatre - Modernism Week – 20th Anniversary
Feb 13–23 - Palm Springs Modernism Show
Feb 14–17 at the Palm Springs Convention Center - Riverside County Fair & National Date Festival
Feb 13–Mar 2 at Riverside County Fairgrounds, Indio - Out at the Fair at the Riverside County Fair
Sat. Feb 15 at Riverside County Fairgrounds, Indio - The Art Behind the Scarf – Textile Design of Fashion Icon Vera Neumann
Feb 8–Mar 3 at Rubine Red Gallery - Palm Springs Gay Softball League Tryouts & Clinic
Sat. Feb 15 at 9 am at Demuth Park - Rhythms at the Riviera – “Elton” with Kenny Metcalf and the Early Years Band
Sat. Feb 15 at 8 pm at the Riviera Resort & Spa - Racist Trees Documentary Screening
Sun. Feb 16 at 3 pm at Palm Springs Cultural Center - Neil Simon’s The Odd Couple (Female Version), presented by Desert Theatreworks
Feb 14–Mar 2 at Blackbox Theater - Honky Tonk Angels, presented by Desert Theatreworks
Feb 1–Mar 30 at the Indio Performing Arts Center - My Fair Lady, presented by Palm Canyon Theatre
Feb 7–Mar 2 - Avenue Q, presented by Revolution Stage Company
Feb. 7–21 - Perfect Arrangement, presented by The Bent
Feb 6–16 at the Palm Springs Cultural Center - Sazerac Premium Bourbon Tasting
Mon. Feb 17 from 6–8 pm at The Purple Room Supper Club - Palm Springs International Pride Hockey Tournament
Feb 20–23 at Acrisure Arena and Berger Foundation Iceplex - Dear Evan Hansen
Feb 21–23 at the McCallum Theatre - “Don’t Bring the Kids” by Lady Bunny
Fri. Feb 21 at 7 pm at Palm Springs Cultural Center - Ben Jones: TEMPTATION
Fri. & Sat., Feb 21 & 22 at The Purple Room Supper Club - Modernism Week Art District Tour
Fri. & Sat. Feb 21 & 22 from 11 am–4 pm (Reception Fri. 4–7 pm) - McCormick’s Palm Springs Collector Car Auction
Fri–Sun, Feb 21–23 at the Palm Springs Convention Center - Annual Desert Pet Walk
Sat. Feb 22 from 9 am–Noon - An Evening with John Cameron Mitchell
Fri. Feb 28 from 5:30–9 pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center - Rock the Park: ABBAFAB The #1 ABBA Tribute
Wed. Mar 5 at 7 pm at the Downtown Palm Springs Park - Cathedral City LGBT+ Days
Mar 7–10 at Cathedral City Civic Center Plaza - Desert X 2025
Mar 8–May 12 at Various Locations Throughout Coachella Valley - Fashion Week El Paseo
Mar 14–19 at The Gardens on El Paseo - Red Dress Dress Red Party (Tickets on Sale Feb 12)
Sat. Mar 15 from 8 pm–Midnight at the Palm Springs Air Museum - Palm Desert Food & Wine
Mar 20–23 at The Gardens on El Paseo - The Chase – 31st Annual Steve Chase Humanitarian Awards
Sat. Mar 29 from 5:30–8 pm at the Palm Springs Convention Center - Desert Legends Women’s Weekend
April 4–6 at Hotel Zoso, Indian Canyons, & Demuth Park - Billy Idol: It’s a Nice Day To…Tour Again!
Fri. Sep 12 at 7:30 pm at Acrisure Arena
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
Celebrate Community at the 3rd Annual OUT AT THE FAIR at Riverside County Fair & National Date Festival presented on Saturday, February 15 [More info]. This is the first Pride Day of the year in California! Enjoy an exciting lineup including performances by KINGQUEEN, Mariachi Arco-Iris de Los Angeles, The Glam Show with RuPaul’s Drag Race stars, and the OutAt After Dark dance party. Also, don’t miss OATF® Bingo hosted by Deven Green and Ned. YOU CAN WIN a 4 pack of tickets and a parking pass, courtesy of KGAY 106.5 and 92.1! – Enter to Win on the KGAY 106.5 & 92.1 Contest Page
103.1 MeTV FM
103.1 MeTV FM is KGAY’s sister station, featuring timeless and memorable music including the ‘60s and ‘70s with a touch of the ‘50s and ‘80s. Listen online
103.1 MeTV FM has your chance to win tickets to the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens! This fabulous giveaway offers you the opportunity to explore the wonders of the desert, from exotic animals to beautiful botanical gardens. Don’t miss your chance to experience a day filled with fun and adventure at one of Palm Springs’ most beloved attractions. 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 TuneIn Radio with Alexa or Siri by saying “Play K-GAY 1065 from Tune In Radio.” 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 now 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.