Inspiration for my blog comes from many places: An overheard comment at a bar, serious discourse with friends, movies, and of course, Rachel Maddow.
As we celebrate MLK Day and wince at the other event happening today, I was truly uplifted by a very lengthy analysis by John Blake of CNN. It’s titled, “What MLK knew that today’s progressives keep forgetting”.
I found it well worth the 12 minute read because I was inspired by the four lessons that King’s legacy taught us. Among them — and not popular today: “Don’t judge a movement’s success by who’s in office”. The piece gives a lesson in dealing with the despair we are feeling. It reminds us that “The civil rights movement of the 1950s and ‘60s was filled with failures. Civil rights activists were assassinated, beaten, betrayed by friends, tortured in jail and disowned by their families,” quotes Blake of Diane Nash, now 86, who knew King.
From the essay: “King said there’s another solution to despair. He believed every social justice movement has “cosmic companionship” — that God, or some other force in the universe, is on the side of justice.”
“I believe that unarmed truth and unconditional love will have the final word,” King said during his Nobel Peace Prize acceptance speech in 1964. “That is why right temporarily defeated is stronger than evil triumphant.”
I’m more hopeful today having read the words of the immortal MLK. Take a few minutes to read this essay and try to avoid the other news of the day. Maybe take in the “Forget Tomorrow World Tour” tonight with Justin Timberlake as a diversion…
Brad Fuhr, your Gay Desert Guide on KGAY 106.5 Palm Springs
For the latest, follow our socials @GayDesertGuide and @KGAY1065 and listen to KGAY Palm Springs wherever you may reside!
#ILoveGayPalmSprings #ILoveGayCatCity #ILoveGayTravel #ILoveGay #SayKGAY #FindYourOasis
Justin Timberlake – The Forget Tomorrow World Tour
Justin Timberlake’s “Forget Tomorrow World Tour” makes its highly anticipated stop at Acrisure Arena on Monday, January 20, at 7:30 pm. This tour, supporting his sixth studio album “Everything I Thought It Was,” marks Timberlake’s return to the stage after a five-year hiatus. With 102 shows across North America, Europe, and South America, the tour features standout performances on a floating stage and intimate sets with his band, the Tennessee Kids. Get tickets
Red Dress Tickets on Sale Feb 12
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 mark your calendar! 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
Safety Blows!
Safety Blows presents Sound Off on Monday, January 20 at Chill Bar. This engaging community conversation series is dedicated to promoting safety, awareness, and empowerment in response to increasing concerns of hate crimes, targeted discrimination, and potential violence in communities most at risk. Come for a meet-and-greet at 5:30 pm, followed by an informative presentation from 6–7 pm. Learn how to better protect ourselves and each other, and support the efforts of the City of Palm Springs and the Palm Springs Police Department in improving safety for everyone. Find out more at SafetyBlows.org.
January Center Social
KGAY 106.5 & 92.1 is the proud sponsor of this month’s Center Social, presented by The LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert on Wednesday, January 22 from 5:30–7:30 pm at Arrive Hotel Palm Springs. Look forward to connection, friendship, and a tasty happy hour! Everyone is invited. More info
The Light in the Piazza
CVRep presents The Light in the Piazza from January 22–February 2. Winner of six Tony Awards & five Drama Desk Awards, The Light in the Piazza takes us to the Tuscan countryside where, a beautiful, surprisingly childish young woman loses her hat in a sudden gust. As if guided by the hand of the Sistine Chapel, the hat lands at the feet of a handsome young Florentine man. But as events unfold and secrets are revealed we follow a love story unlike any other. Filled with a beautiful blend of classical and Broadway melodies. Get tickets
This Week at the McCallum Theatre
The McCallum Theatre is hosting an array of captivating events this week. On Monday, January 20 at 7 pm, National Geographic Live presents “Earth After Dark” by Babak Tafreshi, who merges art and science to showcase breathtaking night scenes from around the world. On Tuesday, January 21 at 7:30 pm, the Los Angeles Philharmonic, led by Swiss conductor Philippe Jordan, will perform Beethoven’s “Emperor Concerto” and Tchaikovsky’s “Patétique.” Thursday, January 23 at 7 pm sees Canadian guitar sensation Jesse Cook returning to the stage with his fusion of modern and world music traditions. David Foster and Katharine McPhee will take the stage on Friday and Saturday, January 24-25 at 8 pm with a show featuring Foster’s hits and McPhee’s biggest songs. Finally, on Sunday, January 26 at 3 pm, comedian Rita Rudner will share her thought-provoking one-liners and amusing observations on everyday life. Get tickets
Meet Patrick Evans & Discover Norway at Frank’s Hideout
Join 103.1 MeTV FM’s Patrick Evans at Frank’s Hideout in Palm Desert on Wednesday, January 22, from 4:30–6 pm for an exciting event where you’ll get the chance to learn about the upcoming Tour of Norway. Scheduled for July 25 to August 2, 2025, this journey promises breathtaking landscapes, majestic mountains, glacial fjords, and legendary sights, including the iconic Oslo and charming towns of Bergen and Loen. Patrick Evans and a Collette representative will be on hand to share details and answer any questions. More info
Southwest Arts Festival
The Southwest Arts Festival® returns to the stunning Empire Polo Club in Indio from Thursday–Sunday, January 23–26, 10 am–4 pm daily. This acclaimed four-day event will feature over 200 artists showcasing traditional, contemporary, and abstract fine art, jewelry, and quality crafts. Set against the beautiful natural landscape and sweeping mountain ranges, the festival offers a unique blend of creative display and live music. Organized by the Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce, the Southwest Arts Festival® is renowned for its high-quality art and professional integrity, supported by over 200 dedicated community volunteers. More info
An Evening with Figure Skating Pairs World Champion Randy Gardner
Join World Champion and Two-Time Olympian Randy Gardner at the Palm Springs Cultural Center on Thursday, January 23, from 6:30–8:30 pm. This special event will feature a screening of Go Figure: The Randy Gardner Story a film by Sharidan Sotelo that delves into Gardner’s journey with his pairs skating partner Tai Babilonia, and his personal pursuit of his true identity as a gay man. The evening includes a live interview, audience Q&A, and an optional VIP meet-and-greet. Get tickets
Chuck Yates as Tru
Desert Ensemble Theatre presents Tru from January 24–February 2 at the Palm Springs Cultural Center. Celebrating Truman Capote’s centennial year, actor Chuck Yates recreates his critically acclaimed performance that he created for Coyote StageWorks in 2013 (“Performer of the Decade,” Broadway World/Palm Springs). Capote remains a literary icon, but today is perhaps more known for his infamous betrayal of his society “Swans” in the pages of Esquire. Adapted from the writer’s own words and works, Tru is a one-person tour-de-force. Get tickets
Spring Awakening
Revolution Stage Company presents Spring Awakening from January 14–30. This groundbreaking rock musical, based on Frank Wedekind’s controversial 1891 play, captures the turbulent journey of adolescence with unflinching honesty. Set in late 19th-century Germany, it tells the poignant story of teenagers grappling with sexual awakening, societal expectations, and identity. With powerful performances and a haunting score by Duncan Sheik and Steven Sater, featuring unforgettable songs like “Mama Who Bore Me” and “The Bitch of Living,” this production speaks to the heart of growing up. Get tickets
Fat Ham
Dezart Performs presents Fat Ham from January 17–26 at the Pearl McManus Theater. Fat Ham is about a Black, queer discovery of self, softness, and resilience. Your typical Southern family cookout just got anything but. Juicy gets a visit from his father’s ghost seeking revenge for his death by his brother – now married to his mother! Sound familiar? Our theatre reviewer Stephen Radosh says Fat Ham is “at once laugh-out-loud funny and truly touching…” Read his full review here and Get tickets
Legally Blonde The Musical
Desert Theatreworks presents Legally Blonde The Musical from January 17–February 9. Follow Elle Woods as she takes on Harvard Law, fueled by the desire to win back her ex-boyfriend. With infectious energy and catchy tunes, the show captures Elle’s journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Along the way, she faces challenges from peers, professors, and her former flame, but with the help of newfound friends, she proves her resilience and determination. Get tickets
A Very Sordid Wedding
Palm Canyon Theatre presents A Very Sordid Wedding from January 17–26. It’s 2015, seventeen years after Sordid Lives and Peggy’s unfortunate death, after tripping over G.W.’s wooden legs, and life has now moved on for the residents of Winters, Texas. A Very Sordid Wedding explores the questions, bigotry and the fallout of what happens when gay marriage comes to communities and families that are not quite ready to accept it. Get tickets
ALSO THIS WEEK
Tuesday, January 21
Palm Springs Walk of Stars Honors Phil Ford & Mimi Hines | 2 pm at Downtown Palm Springs Park
Wednesday, January 22
Rancho Mirage Chamber Meet & Greet Mixer | 4 pm at Wally’s Desert Turtle
Desert Candlelight Concerts: Angie Delarie | 6 pm at Mary Pickford Theatre
Thursday, January 23
Wine & Design | 5:30–7:30 pm at Cambria in Palm Desert
Friday, January 24
The Comparable Dina Martina | 7 pm & 9 pm at Revolution Stage Company
Collective Soul: Harmonizing the World, One Note at a Time | 8 pm at The Show
Saturday, January 25
Country Dance Saturdays (New Day & Location) | 7 pm at 933 Crossley Road
The Dinner Detective Palm Springs Grand Opening | 6 pm at Hilton Garden Inn
Sunday, January 26
PS Concerts: Andrew Sords, violin | 2 pm at Richards Center for the Arts
THIS WEEKEND
Palm Springs Health Run & Wellness Festival
The Palm Springs Health Run & Wellness Festival will take place on Saturday, January 25 from 8 am–1 pm at Ruth Hardy Park. This energizing event offers a 10K, 5K, 1K Fun Run, and Bike Ride, catering to fitness enthusiasts of all levels. Alongside the runs, the Wellness Festival features over 60 vendors showcasing the latest in nutrition, exercise, and wellness. It’s a comprehensive fitness expo designed to inspire, challenge, and energize participants of all ages. More info
Desert Open Studios Tour
The 5th Annual Desert Open Studios Tour will take place from Friday to Sunday, January 24–26, 11 am–4 pm daily. This event offers a rare glimpse behind the scenes, with 150 artists from Indio to Desert Hot Springs opening their studio doors. Art lovers can explore a variety of artistic styles and mediums in both small, personal studios and larger creative hubs. Visitors will have the opportunity to view works in progress, purchase art directly from the artists, and support the vibrant creative community of Southern California. More info
Art Party 2025: Cosmic Odyssey
Art Party 2025: Cosmic Odyssey at the Palm Springs Art Museum is a cosmic gala fundraiser honoring artist Lita Albuquerque. On Saturday, January 25 from 6–10 pm, guests will immerse themselves in an otherworldly evening featuring creative cocktails, gourmet hors d’oeuvres, interactive entertainment, and out-of-this-world experiences. The evening kicks off with a cocktail reception at 6 pm, followed by dinner at 7:30 pm, and entertainment and dancing at 8:30 pm. Join in a memorable night that supports the Palm Springs Art Museum. Get tickets
Christine Andreas: S’WONDERFUL!
Christine Andreas will take the stage at The Purple Room on Friday and Saturday, January 24 and 25, with her show “S’WONDERFUL!” This performance promises an elegant and stylish mix of the very best of the American Songbook. Christine will reflect on some of the most iconic songs spanning from Berlin to Bacharach, Gershwin to Billy Joel, Kern to Cahn, and even a touch of Rodgers with Hammerstein and Hart, Mancini, Mercer, Hoagy, and more. Dinner at 6 pm, show at 8 pm. Get tickets
Agua Caliente Bird Song and Dance Festival
The Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians is hosting the annual Bird Song and Dance Festival, “Singing the Birds,” on Saturday, January 25 from 10 am–7 pm at Palm Springs High School. This event brings together bird singers and dancers from tribes across Southern California and the Southwest, celebrating the region’s rich Native American heritage. The day-long festival features bird singing and dancing, a Native American Market, and various food vendors. Reserve your free admission: Get tickets
Huey Lewis Tribute at The Gardens
The Gardens on El Paseo 27th Annual Concert Series continues on Saturday, January 25 at 4 pm with The Heart of Rock and Roll (Huey Lewis & The News Tribute), benefiting Shay’s Warriors Life After Cancer. Reserve your tickets now and wine down on the Center Lawn, Saturday evenings to support your community. Upcoming benefit shows include: Billy Joel Tribute (2/1), Journey Tribute (2/8), Rolling Stones Tribute (2/15), John Stanley King Band (2/22), Jimmy Buffett Tribute (3/1), and Rod Stewart Tribute (3/8). Get tickets
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!
LOOKING AHEAD
Illusionist Rick Thomas – Mansion of Dreams
Experience the magic of Illusionist Rick Thomas in “Mansion of Dreams” at the McCallum Theatre on Monday, January 27 from 7-9 pm. This captivating show features breathtaking grand illusions, taking audiences of all ages through the mysteries within the Mansion’s walls. Rick Thomas, a world-renowned illusionist, has completed five world tours, performed at Caesars Colosseum, headlined the Sydney Opera House, and starred in Las Vegas for 15 years. Get tickets
DBA January Networking Mixer
Mark your calendar for the DBA January Networking Mixer on Monday, January 27, from 5:30–7 pm, hosted by All People’s Presbyterian Church. This exciting evening offers a chance for DBA members to connect for free, while future members can join for just $20. Participate in the regular raffle supporting LGBTQ Youth Education Scholarships through Safe Schools Desert Cities—bring an item for the raffle and get a shout-out for your business. More info
Virtuoso Voyage
Join the Palm Springs International Piano Competition for the Annual Benefit: Virtuoso Voyage on Monday, January 27, from 4:30–6 pm. This event heralds the 2024-25 season with a tribute to Peggy Cravens and features pianist Nathaniel Zhang, winner of the 2019 Junior Division Competition. Proceeds support vital music education programs and competition offerings. The evening includes a lively cocktail reception and a gourmet dinner prepared by award-winning executive chef Luke Patterson. Get tickets
Volunteers Needed for the 2025 Best Friends National Conference
Best Friends Animal Society is seeking dedicated volunteers for the 2025 Best Friends National Conference, taking place at the Palm Springs Convention Center from February 20–22. This crucial event aims to end the killing of dogs and cats in America’s shelters by the end of 2025. Volunteers are needed for various roles from February 19–22, including team leaders and event day assistants. While working with people, not animals, volunteers will engage in tasks such as event setup, support during the conference, and closing activities. Shifts typically last 3-4 hours, and volunteers must be 18 or older. 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!
- Justin Timberlake – The Forget Tomorrow World Tour
Mon. Jan 20 at 7:30 pm at Acrisure Arena - Tour of Norway – Meet Patrick Evans
Wed. Jan 22 from 5:30–7 pm at Frank’s Hideout - The Light in the Piazza, presented by CVRep
Jan 22–Feb 2 - Southwest Arts Festival
Jan 23–26 at Empire Polo Grounds, Indio - 5th Annual Desert Open Studios Tour
Fri.–Sun., Jan 24–25 at various studios throughout the valley - Christine Andreas: S’WONDERFUL!
Fri. & Sat. Jan 24 & 25 at The Purple Room Supper Club - David Foster & Katherine McPhee (Fri & Sat), Rita Rudner (Sun)
Jan 24–26 at the McCallum Theatre - Tru, presented by Desert Ensemble Theatre
Jan 24–Feb 2 at the Palm Springs Cultural Center - Palm Springs Health Run & Wellness Festival
Sat. Jan 25 from 8 am–1 pm at Ruth Hardy Park - Spring Awakening, presented by Revolution Stage Company
Jan 15–30 - Fat Ham, presented by Dezart Performs
Jan 17–Jan 26 at the Pearl McManus Theater - Legally Blonde The Musical, presented by Desert Theatreworks
Jan 17–Feb 9 at the Indio Performing Arts Center - Illusionist Rick Thomas – Mansion of Dreams
Mon. Jan 27 at the McCallum Theatre - Lunar New Year
Wed. Jan 29 from 5–8 pm at Hotel Zoso - Rock the Park: Twisted Gypsy – Fleetwood Mac Tribute
Wed. Feb 5 at 7 pm at Downtown Palm Springs Park - PS Test Fest Cocktail Party & Silent Auction
Thu. Feb 6 at 5:30 pm at Toucans Tiki Lounge - Stephen Harper, Former Canadian Prime Minister
Fri. Feb 7 at 5 pm at the Renaissance Esmeralda Resort - 27th Annual Tour de Palm Springs
Feb 7 & 8 in downtown Palm Springs - LGBTQ+ Victory Fund w/Keynote from Karine Jean Pierre
Sat. Feb 8 from 11 am–2 pm in Palm Springs - Palm Springs Gay Softball League Tryouts & Clinics
Sun. Feb 9 at 9 am at Demuth Park - Modernism Week – 20th Anniversary
Feb 13–23 - 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 - 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 - Dear Evan Hansen
Feb 21–23 at the McCallum Theatre - Cathedral City LGBT+ Days
Mar 7–10 at Cathedral City Civic Center Plaza - Fashion Week El Paseo
Mar 14–19 at The Gardens on El Paseo - Red Dress Dress Red Party
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 - Billy Idol: It’s a Nice Day To…Tour Again! (Tickets on Sale Jan 24)
Fri. Sep 12 at 7:30 pm at Acrisure Arena
Step into the recently opened Hall Wines Tasting Room, nestled in the heart of Palm Springs. Located in the chic Thompson Hotel, this tasting room offers a sophisticated wine-tasting experience. Guests can enjoy wine flights, sip wine by the glass, explore bottle service, and savor paired food bites designed to enhance each wine’s unique flavor profile. Learn more
Natural Retreats Vacation Homes offers luxury vacation homes that promise an unforgettable stay. Ideal for homeowners looking to market their property for luxury renters, each home tells a unique story through creative artwork and furnishings, complementing distinctive architecture and design. Many homes are situated on gated, landscaped grounds within walking distance of downtown areas. Each property features a swimming pool with resort-style lounge furniture, and some grand estates are spacious enough to host weddings. 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
KGAY Wants to Hear From YOU!
As a KGAY 106.5 & 92.1 listener, you’re probably aware that we’ve been working hard to stay ahead of rapid changes in the radio and technology landscape. Our goal is to continue to provide great content the way that you want it on the platforms you use most often, so we’re inviting you to share your opinions about technology in our annual survey. Tell us how you use the radio, along with social media, smartphones, tablets, streaming and the web to stay connected to entertainment, news, and updates from KGAY and other sources. We hope you’ll find it to be an interesting way to reflect on your own changing habits as a KGAY fan and radio listener! Take the survey
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
- White Party Palm Springs Takes a Break for 2025
- Legendary Chefs Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger Serve Up Hope Amid Fire Crisis
- From Teacher to Trailblazer: Comedian Mina Hartong Filming Palm Springs Special
- 20 Must-Try International Restaurants in Palm Springs and Beyond
- Lola Rose Grand Mezze Executive Chef Dishes on New Restaurant, Growing Up in the Desert
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.