The morning headlines went from bad to worse. As I looked for fodder for this twice-weekly blog, a scan of The Desert Sun and LA Times did nothing for my morale.
We’re now blockading Cuba, causing residents to experience food shortages and power outages. The National Park Services is removing Native American verbiage from its displays.
Catherine O’Hara dies, while a vigil was held for “Walking Man” Ricardo Marano who was the victim of another hit and run. Prescott Preserve suffered a devastating fire to its palm trees. Worst of all: Puxatawny Phil saw his shadow portending six more weeks of Winter (we’re unscathed here – one bright spot!)
It is a lot, and for those of us who are paying attention the news cycle does take a toll. It’s a real thing – documented during the last administration. “Trump Anxiety Disorder” is recognized for raising the collective fears of Americans. Heart attack rates were 42% higher in the five days following the 2020 election than in the period prior.
Gen Z youth reported significantly higher levels of sociopolitical stress compared to older generations, with those identifying as LGBQ+ being over 20 times more likely to experience high stress trajectories during the 2020 election cycle.
And ever before the history books are written and research is done on what’s happening IRL, we can feel the impact in our psyche. That’s part of the plan, of course. But it’s hard to rise above the din and be logical about one’s feelings: We shouldn’t let it bother us, but it does.
If you don’t pay attention, maybe it’s time you do. Obviously not for the health benefits but for the stake of our republic. And if you need motivation, take it from Jelly Roll, who at Sunday night’s Grammy’s vowed to take a more active civic role. He’s quoted backstage saying, “I didn’t even know politics were f-cking real until I was in my mid-20s in jail.”
According to Billboard Magazine, he is ready to speak out. “I have a lot to say about it and I’m going to in the next week. And everybody’s going to hear exactly what I have to say in the most loud and clear way I’ve ever spoken in my life. I look forward to it.”
My guess is that it won’t be in support of what’s driving these headlines.
P.S. It’s my honor to have DJ Galaxy and DJ Eric Ornelas celebrate seven years on KGAY this week! I hired them both as we started KGAY, and they stayed through thick and thin. To start year eight, Galaxy will rebroadcast his first shows from 2019 this week starting today at noon on KGAYPalmSprings.com and at 103.1 FM.
Brad Fuhr, your K-Gay Desert Guide
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TUE: Positive Life Series
The Positive Life Series continues at the Mizell Center on Tuesday, February 3 from 6–7 pm with an informative session on Urological Health and HIV led by Dr. Jay Bischoff of Eisenhower Medical Center. This community program offers clear, accessible guidance on an often‑overlooked aspect of wellness, creating space for attendees to learn, ask questions, and better understand how urological issues intersect with HIV care. More info
This week at the McCallum Theatre
The McCallum Theatre delivers a remarkable week of music and movement, beginning Tuesday, February 3 at 7 pm with Counterpoint, an inventive collaboration between pianist‑composer Conrad Tao and choreographer‑dancer Caleb Teicher. Their acclaimed blend of rhythm, harmony, and theatricality bridges traditions from Bach to Gershwin in a performance that expands the boundaries of both dance and music. On Friday and Saturday, February 6 and 7 at 8 pm, the McCallum Theatre Orchestra takes the stage under the baton of Richard Kaufman, celebrated for his work conducting and supervising music for major films and television. Get tickets
WED: Rock the Park – Bruno and the Hooligans
Rock the Park keeps the energy high on Wednesday, February 4 from 7–9 pm as Bruno and the Hooligans take over Downtown Palm Springs Park with a lively tribute to the chart‑topping hits and show‑stopping style of Bruno Mars. This free outdoor concert invites the community to gather under the evening sky for a night of dancing and feel‑good music. The series continues next month with Always, Adele (3/4), followed by Song Bird: The Singular Tribute to Barbra Streisand (4/1). More info
This Week at the Plaza Theatre
The Plaza Theatre lights up this week with three spectacular events: On Wednesday, February 4, Piaf! The Show brings Edith Piaf’s world to life in a breathtaking theatrical tribute praised internationally for its emotional depth and authenticity. On Friday and Saturday, February 6 and 7, the theatre unveils rePLAY: The Importance of Being Earnest (in New York), a star‑studded script‑in‑hand performance featuring Christine Ebersole, Isabella Coben, Judy Kaye, Priscilla Lopez, Jess Salgueiro, Ryan Spahn, Michael Urie, and Lillias White. The week wraps on Sunday, February 8, with MANIA: The ABBA Tribute, a globe‑touring celebration of ABBA’s greatest hits, complete with stunning vocals, choreography, and disco‑era magic. Get tickets
THU: Black History Month Opening Celebration
Black History Month begins with a community celebration at the Palm Springs Art Museum on Thursday, February 5 from 5–8 pm. The evening opens the exhibition A Century of Black History Commemorations and features a high‑energy performance by the James O Jessie Desert Highland Unity Center drumline and drill team, remarks from local leaders, a live set by Poetic Moor, and small bites from Tasteful Soul Catering with Chef Corinne. More info
THU: Palm Springs Yappy Hour
Yappy Hour returns to the Riviera Resort’s Desert Rose Garden on Thursday, February 5 from 4–6 pm, offering an afternoon of wine, hors d’oeuvres, and tail-wagging fun. Hosted by KiKi Tormo, this pet-friendly gathering invites guests and their leashed pups to mingle in a lush garden setting while supporting Animal Samaritans’ life-saving programs for local homeless animals. More info
THU–FRI: NGPA Industry Expo
The National Gay Pilots Association brings its annual Industry Expo to the Palm Springs Convention Center on Thursday–Friday, February 5–6, offering one of the country’s largest aviation recruiting and networking gatherings. Pilots, students, and aviation professionals from across the industry will be in town for two days of speakers, exhibitors, and career‑focused programming that highlight the depth and talent of the LGBTQ aviation community. More info
Opens THU: Timeless Traditions, Modern Context
The Artists Council Exhibition: Timeless Traditions, Modern Context opens on Thursday, February 5, running through March 1 at the Artists Council Artist Center at the Galen, presenting more than 130 juried works from the region’s creative community. Featuring pieces that bridge historical influence with contemporary vision, the exhibition highlights the depth and diversity of talent among the Artists Council’s 700 members. It’s an inspiring showcase of how tradition and modern expression continue to shape the Coachella Valley’s artistic landscape. More info
THU–SAT: Varla Jean Merman is The Drowsy Chappell Roan
Varla Jean Merman storms into Palm Springs Cultural Center with a deliriously fun new spectacle, serving up her own drowsy, deliciously off‑kilter take on Chappell Roan and today’s reigning pop powerhouses. The evening performances for Thursday–Saturday, February 5–7 at 7:30 pm are now sold out, but a newly added Saturday matinee on February 7 at 3 pm has been scheduled by popular demand. She rewires hits from Chappell Roan, Dua Lipa, Sabrina Carpenter, Billie Eilish, Doechii and Miley Cyrus, all while unraveling her accidental identity crisis with trademark wit, glamour and theatrical chaos. With Todd Alsup joining the ride, this is Varla at her most playful and pop‑obsessed. Get tickets
STARTS FRI: Hair
Hair opens at Palm Canyon Theatre on Friday, February 6, launching a spirited run through March 1 that channels the raw energy and cultural revolution of the 1960s. Audiences are invited into a world of peace, love, and youthful rebellion as a tribe of free‑spirited hippies navigates identity, protest, and the power of community. With its electrifying rock score and timeless call for change, this landmark musical continues to resonate with its bold, joyful, and unapologetically revolutionary spirit. Get tickets
FRI & SAT: The Kinsey Sicks
The Purple Room turns up the sparkle Friday and Saturday, February 6 and 7, as DRAGAPELLA! featuring The Kinsey Sicks storms the stage with their outrageous blend of four‑part harmonies and razor‑sharp comedy. This beloved troupe delivers a night that’s equal parts Pitch Perfect polish and Drag Race attitude, serving fresh a cappella spins on pop hits, musical‑theater favorites, and classics — all wrapped in their signature bawdy brilliance. Get tickets
FRI: National Wear Red Day
National Wear Red Day on Friday, February 6 invites everyone to stand in solidarity for women’s heart health by wearing red and helping raise awareness of cardiovascular disease, the leading cause of death for women in the United States. Landmarks across the country—including the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway—will glow red in support, while the American Heart Association encourages all to join the Go Red for Women movement by sharing the message and spreading awareness throughout the day. More info
ALSO THIS WEEK
Monday, February 2
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, February 4
Intro to Energy Healing | 10 am at The Center
Ernesto Ramirez Fine Art at Backstreet Art Walk | 5–7 pm at Backstreet Art District
La Quinta Concerts in the Park: The Stellar Band | 6 pm at SilverRock Park
Hot Spot Bingo with Deven & Ned | 7–8:30 pm at Agua Caliente Cathedral City
Thursday, February 5
VillageFest Street Fair | 6–10 pm in Downtown Palm Springs
Carousel Live Retro Music | 7–8:30 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs
Cabaret L’Amour | 7 pm at The Velvet Rope Hotel
Laughter on the 23rd Floor | 7:30 pm at Desert Theatreworks
Friday, February 6
Drag Bingo | 4:30–7 pm at Arrive Hotel
Food Truck Fridays | 5–10 pm in Downtown Indio
Laughter on the 23rd Floor | Fri, Sat & Sun at 7:30 pm at Desert Theatreworks
Saturday, February 7
Sober & Strong | 8–9 am at Atlas Training Club
Special Talk: Love, Desire & Relationships | 11 am–12:30 pm at The Dharmachakra Kadampa Buddhist Center
Heart of Rock & Roll (Huey Lewis Tribute) | 4:30 pm at The Gardens on El Paseo
The Rat Pack Hour | 7–8:30 pm at Rancho Mirage Amphitheatre
Dance Ranch: Marvin Gaye Line Dance with Kyle Young| 7 pm at Step by Step
Sunday, February 8
A.M. Stream with Modgirl | 10 am–1 pm at Café la Jefa
Elvis: The Early Years with Scot Bruce | 5–8:30 pm at The Purple Room
KGAY Wants to Hear From YOU!
As a KGAY 103.1 listener, you already know we’re always hustling to stay ahead of the fast‑moving world of radio and technology. We want to keep delivering the content you love in the ways you actually use, which is why we’re inviting you to take part in our annual tech survey. Tell us how radio fits into your day alongside social media, smartphones, tablets, streaming and the web—everything that keeps you connected to entertainment, news and updates from KGAY and beyond. You might even enjoy taking a moment to reflect on how your own listening habits have evolved as a KGAY fan! Take the survey
A Fresh New Glow on Sunny 106.5 and KGAY is Now at 103.1
Sunny 106.5 is the Coachella Valley’s new home for feel‑good hits from the ’90s, 2000s, and beyond, pairing bright, familiar favorites with local updates and weekday weather from Patrick Evans. At the same time, KGAY has kicked off the New Year on a stronger, farther‑reaching signal at 103.1 FM, expanding its coverage and adding HD digital sound while continuing to stream worldwide.
Score Your 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% at checkout with promo code SAYKGAY. Shop Now
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
Gay Softball New Player Clinic
The PS Gay Softball League welcomes new players on Saturday & Sunday, February 7 & 8 at 9 am at Demuth Park for a friendly, low‑pressure clinic designed to introduce newcomers to the league. This is not a tryout but an opportunity for players of all experience levels—from beginners to those returning to the game—to have their skills assessed so they can be matched with the right team. Participants are encouraged to bring a glove, good shoes, water, and a positive attitude. More info
BAM!Tastic with Alexis Mateo!
RuPaul’s Drag Race favorite Alexis Mateo brings her high‑energy BAM!Tastic showcase to The Social Cafe and Play Lounge on Saturday, February 7 from 6–8 pm. Expect live vocals, fierce fashion and the full force of Alexis’s signature charisma in a night built for fans who love big personality and bigger performances. With a special half‑price offer available using promo code ALEXIS 50, this is a prime chance to experience her fabulousness up close. Get tickets
Soul Springs Festival
The Soul Springs Festival returns to the Cathedral City Community Amphitheater on Saturday, February 7 from 1–6 pm, bringing an afternoon of soul, R&B, and community connection back to the Coachella Valley. Following a sold‑out debut, this second annual celebration invites guests to settle in with picnic baskets and blankets for a relaxed outdoor experience filled with live performances, wine tastings, local vendors, and the joyful spirit of a true musical reunion. More info
Tour de Palm Springs
The 28th Annual Tour de Palm Springs returns to downtown on Saturday, February 7, celebrating its theme of honoring military, first responders, and veterans with one of the most spirited charity rides in the country. Participants can choose from a wide range of walking and cycling routes as the event winds through the Coachella Valley, welcoming riders of all levels, including those on e‑bikes. Known for drawing thousands of cyclists and supporting more than 150 local nonprofits since its inception, the Tour offers a community‑driven atmosphere from start to finish, complete with medals for all who take part. More info
Reduce, Reuse, Redress
Reduce, Reuse, Redress invites the community to refresh their closets with purpose on Saturday, February 7 from 2–7 pm at participating businesses in the Arenas District. Guests are encouraged to donate their previously worn but still fabulous Red Dress Dress Red outfits, all of which will help stock a special pop‑up resale event on February 21. Every donation earns an entry into prize drawings for pairs of general admission RDDR tickets, RDDR tickets, or tickets to the Sunday pool party, making this drop‑off day both stylish and rewarding. More info
Sweet Jazz Opening Reception
Rubine Red Gallery hosts the Sweet Jazz Opening Reception on Saturday, February 7 from 5–8 pm, celebrating the legacy of Malcolm Myers and his lifelong devotion to America’s great musical art form. Inspired by his early years in New York’s historic jazz clubs, Myers translated the rhythm, soul, and improvisational spirit of jazz into Watercolors, Etchings, Intaglios, Oil, and Acrylic works that capture the genre’s unmistakable energy. More info
Our Voices Our Stories: Celebrating Black Authors
The Mizell Center hosts the second annual Our Voices Our Stories: Celebrating Black Authors on Sunday, February 8 from 10 am–1 pm, a free community gathering presented with the Palm Springs Public Library and Brothers of the Desert in honor of Black History Month. The morning begins with a welcome reception before featured authors RK Russell and Toni Ann Johnson take the stage for conversations about their work, their journeys, and the power of storytelling. With book signings, curated selections from The Best Bookstore in Palm Springs, and space for meaningful connection. Registration requested. More info
Big Game Viewing Parties
Agua Caliente Casinos is gearing up for an action‑packedBig Game celebration on Sunday, February 8, with viewing parties happening across all three properties. Fans can catch every play at the award‑winning 360 Sports locations in Palm Springs, Cathedral City and Rancho Mirage, or experience the excitement on the massive screens inside The Show. Guests can enjoy food and drink specials, exclusive access options, premium seating, lively atmospheres and plenty of game‑day energy. More info
Desert Hot Springs Classical Concerts: Oakwood Brass
Desert Hot Springs Classical Concerts continues its twelfth season on Sunday, February 8 from 4–5 pm at Grace Church with a performance by Oakwood Brass, bringing rich, vibrant brass ensemble sound to this beloved community series. Known for drawing enthusiastic audiences and showcasing exceptional professional musicians, the series offers an inviting hour of music in an intimate setting, with no tickets or reservations required. More info
Camp Morning Wood
Camp Morning Wood is making its west coast premiere, presented by the new PRISM Theater at The 4707 for a run that continues through Sunday, March 22. Fresh from its Off‑Broadway success, this bold and irreverent musical follows a newly engaged couple who unexpectedly land at a gay nudist camp, setting the stage for cheeky comedy, lively songs and outrageous choreography. Get tickets
The Art of Science
The Art of Science offers an intimate one‑man performance that blends live music, immersive visuals, and thought‑provoking scientific storytelling. Created by local artist Patrick Olson and refined after a successful Off‑Broadway chapter, the show invites audiences to explore connection, consciousness, and the universe in a uniquely moving way. Complimentary preview performances take place Saturdays from 7:30–8:45 pm and Sundays from 2–3:15 pm. More info
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!
- Rock the Park: Bruno & The Hooligans
Wed. Feb 4 at 7 pm at Downtown Park, Palm Springs - National Wear Red Day – Women’s Cardiovascular Disease Awareness
Fri. Feb 6 - PS Gay Softball New Player Clinic & Tryouts
Sat. & Sun. Feb 7 & 8 at Demuth Park - BAM!Tastic with Alexis Mateo!
Sat. Feb 7 at 6 pm at The Social Cafe and Play Lounge - Hair – presented by Palm Canyon Theatre
Feb 6–Mar 1 - Camp Morning Wood – presented by PRISM Theater
Jan 23–Mar 22 - The Art of Science with Patrick Olson
Sat. at 7:30 pm, Sun. at 2 pm at Studio 1068 - The TEN Tenors
Tue.–Sun. Feb 10–15 at The McCallum Theatre - Modernism Week 2026
Feb 12–22 - Palm Springs Modernism Show
Sat. & Sun. Feb 14 & 15 at the Palm Springs Convention Center - In the Wake – presented by THE BENT
Feb 12–28 at the Palm Springs Cultural Center - Valentine’s Weekend Jazz Dinner
Fri. & Sat. Feb 13 & 14 at The Purple Room Supper Club - Bernadette Peters in Concert with The Desert Symphony
Thu. Feb 19 at 7 pm at The Show - The Chase 2026
Sat. Feb 21 from 6–10 pm at the Palm Springs Convention Center - Legends of Pop Festival: Madonna, Prince & Michael Jackson
Sat. Feb 28 at 6 pm at The Show - A Studio 54 Celebration Benefiting McCallum’s Education Programs
Mon. Mar 2 at 4:30 pm at Renaissance Esmeralda Resort - Cathedral City LGBT+ Days
Mar 6–8 at Cathedral City Civic Center Plaza - Solid Gold Soul
Wed. Mar 11 at 7:30 pm at The Plaza Theatre - Fashion Week El Paseo
Fri.–Wed. Mar 13–18 at The Gardens on El Paseo - Palm Desert Food & Wine
Thu.–Sun., Mar 19–22 at The Gardens on El Paseo - Red Dress Dress Red Party
Sat. Mar 21 at 8 pm at the Palm Springs Air Museum
A Queer View provides compassionate, client‑centered therapy in a safe, affirming space for the LGBTQ2+ community and its allies. Founded by psychotherapist Joseph Voors, AQV’s collective of LGBTQ2+‑identified and allied clinicians offers culturally aware, identity‑focused care that honors each person’s story while supporting healing, resilience, and authentic living. Learn more
KGAY 103.1 FM
The KGAY 103.1 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 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 103.1 online
This Week: Modgirl kicks things off on Wednesday, February 4 at 1 pm with a sun‑splashed Go Jet Pool Party at Trixie Motel in Palm Springs, then heads to La Quinta on Thursday, February 5 at 7 pm for a night of groove at the Hideaway Club. On Friday, February 6 at 8 pm she brings her signature pulse to Friday Night Fever at Ace Hotel & Swim Club. Then on Sunday, February 8 at 10 am with a bright A.M. Stream session at Café La Jefa.
- Coachella Valley Restaurant News: Date Fest, Greek Fest, New Tapas, Openings, and Closures
- Art Party 2026 Honors Bob Mackie with Glamour, Community, and Palm Springs Style
- Seasonal Modernism Week Architecture Tours Return to Palm Springs
- Coachella Valley Padel Guide: Courts, Lessons, Local Pros, and Rising Demand
- 6 Must‑Try Guided Tours Across Greater Palm Springs
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 2026 Coachella Valley Calendar of Events.
Listen to KGAY over the air, stream it [here], or listen on iHeart Radio with Alexa or Siri by saying “Play K-G-A-Y” 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.