Gay Desert Guide: Week of May 11, 2026

The controversy surrounding a recent incident at Tool Shed with Honey Davenport has laid bare the cumulative weight of being a Black gay man in a city that markets itself as a “sanctuary”. It is not the reality for Black queer residents and visitors.

Quincy Taylor eloquently addressed that friction in a post May 8th that has given me and many others in our community an opportunity to listen and reflect.

While Palm Springs celebrates its openness, voices like Quincy Taylor—remind us that ‘open’ doesn’t always mean ‘equitable.’ There is a specific pain in feeling tolerated rather than celebrated in your own sanctuary.

Honey Davenport responded to Quincy’s post with the following: “…I truly believe that now that this town is taking (sic) about this problem we can make steps to eradicating this issue in our community. This will be a sanctuary for all of us one day. Growing hurts sometimes but I am thankful for all that have taken this moment as an opportunity to do so.“

So what can we do and how should we think about what’s been presented to us as white gay men (and women)?

Move from “Tolerance” to “Intentional Celebration”

As Quincy pointed out, there is a difference between being tolerated and being valued. For we in the white majority, “reading the room” should mean noticing who isn’t there or who is being ignored. So, don’t just frequent spaces that are “diverse” by accident. Seek out and patronize events specifically curated by Black queer organizers, such as ONYX SoCal-Southwest and Brothers of the Desert. We can use our economic and social capital to ensure these events are successful, profitable, and sustainable.

Interrupt the “Atmospheric” Racism

Quincy described covert racism as “the warmth that is present for everyone else and somehow just slightly cooler when it reaches you.” This is often where white allies can have the most impact. If you see a person of color being ignored at a bar while you are being served, or if you hear a “compliment” that feels like a reduction or a fetishization, speak up in the moment.

Challenge Our “Sanctuary” Mentality

Palm Springs prides itself on being a liberal haven, but that self-image can sometimes act as a shield against growth. When Black members of the community express pain, resist the urge to defend the city’s reputation or the bar’s history. Instead, listen with the intent to understand the ‘cumulative weight’ they carry.

As we move forward, the goal isn’t just to ‘read the room,’ but to ensure everyone in the room has an equal seat at the table. Advocacy in the desert isn’t about liking a one-time social media post; it’s about the half-second faster we turn to include someone in a conversation, the cash we put behind Black-led fundraisers, and the humility to realize that our ‘open’ city still has doors that feel heavy to some.

Let’s make the warmth of Palm Springs reach everyone equally.

Brad Fuhr, your K-Gay Desert Guide

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TUE: “Cathedral City Takes Flight” State of the City

The City of Cathedral City invites residents, business leaders, and community partners to the 2026 State of the City luncheon, “Cathedral City Takes Flight,” taking place on Tuesday, May 12 from 10:30 am–1:30 pm at the DoubleTree by Hilton Golf Resort. The event features a sponsor reception at 10:30 am, followed by a business expo, awards, and luncheon from 11:30 am–1:30 pm. Mayor Raymond Gregory will deliver the State of the City address at approximately 12:30 pm, joined by members of the City Council. Hosted by Patrick Evans of Sunny 106.5 FM and KESQ TV, this annual gathering highlights Cathedral City’s progress, innovation, and future initiatives. More info

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WED/FRI: Firebirds in Round Three

The Coachella Valley Firebirds have clawed their way into Round Three of the 2026 Calder Cup Playoffs after a thrilling weekend victory over the Ontario Reign. Now, they face the Colorado Eagles in the Pacific Division Finals, a best‑of‑five series that begins Wednesday, May 13 at 7 pm at Acrisure Arena. The Firebirds will also host Game 2 on Friday, May 15 at 7 pm, before heading to Colorado for Game 3 and Games 4 and 5 (if necessary). Get tickets

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THU: Harvey Milk Diversity Breakfast

The 14th Annual Harvey Milk Diversity Breakfast is on Thursday, May 14, beginning with an 8:30 am coffee hour and followed by a 9:30 am breakfast and program at the Palm Springs Convention Center. This year honors Brandon Wolf with the Harvey B. Milk Leadership Award and Judy and Dennis Shepard with the Harvey B. Milk Legacy Award. The program celebrates LGBTQ+ leadership, resilience, and advocacy, featuring stories that uplift community progress and inspire continued action. This cherished annual gathering brings together civic leaders, students, and allies for a morning of reflection and empowerment. More info

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THU–SAT: Marvelous Marilyn Maye! at The Purple Room

Experience the legendary Marilyn Maye in an intimate, cabaret‑style showcase at The Purple Room from Thursday–Saturday, May 14–16, where her extraordinary artistry takes center stage. A Grammy‑nominated singer, actress, director, arranger, and educator, Ms. Maye has devoted her life to the craft of song and performance. She holds the record for a singer with 76 appearances on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson, who famously told his millions of viewers, “And that, young singers, is the way it’s done.” More info

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THU–SUN: Joshua Tree Music Festival

The 24th Spring Joshua Tree Music Festival returns to the Mojave for four days of music, movement, and community from May 14–17. Immerse yourself in a vibrant mix of live performances, mindfulness workshops, and creative experiences set against the desert’s expansive landscape. This beloved festival brings together artists and attendees from around the world, fostering connection through sound, art, and shared discovery. More info

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FRI: Agua Caliente Indian Reservation 150th Anniversary

Honor a historic milestone as the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum hosts a free community celebration on Friday, May 15, 2026 from 10 am–5 pm, marking the 150th anniversary of the establishment of the Agua Caliente Indian Reservation. Throughout the day, you can explore a vibrant Native American Market, enjoy cultural demonstrations, savor local food vendors, and experience traditional bird singing and dancing. Complimentary museum admission will be offered on a first‑come, first‑served basis, giving you a special opportunity to engage with the Tribe’s rich history and living culture. More info

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FRI–SUN: Princesses: Crowned & Dangerous

Musical Theatre University presents the Southern California premiere of Princesses: Crowned & Dangerous, an all‑new musical comedy created by David Zippel, Cheri and Bill Steinkellner, and Matthew Wilder. This reimagined production features MTU students performing alongside Broadway veterans in a rare opportunity to see original material before it reaches the national stage. Performances run May 15–17. More info

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FRI–SUN: Kiss Me, Kate at McCallum Theatre

College of the Desert presents the classic musical Kiss Me, Kate at the McCallum Theatre, running May 15–17. This spirited production follows feuding ex‑spouses Lilli Vanessi and Fred Graham as they clash onstage and off in a musical adaptation of Shakespeare’s Taming of the Shrew. With romance, comedy, backstage antics, and iconic Cole Porter songs like “So in Love” and “Too Darn Hot,” the show blends wit, sophistication, and show‑stopping numbers. More info

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A Man of No Importance

The BENT presents A Man of No Importance, running May 8–24, a tender musical exploring identity, acceptance, and the courage to live authentically. Set in Dublin, the story follows Alfie Byrne, a gentle bus conductor determined to stage an amateur production of Wilde’s Salome at his local church. As he confronts prejudice and the quiet ache of a love “that dare not speak its name,” Alfie discovers the transformative power of friendship and community. Our theatre reviewer Stephen Radosh says the play “is a reminder that theatre doesn’t need spectacle to move us. It needs truth, compassion, and a story told with care — and this production delivers all three.” Read his full review and get tickets: More info

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The Ritz

Palm Canyon Theatre brings big laughs to the stage with The Ritz, running May 8–17, a riotous farce set inside a 1970s Manhattan gay bathhouse. When a straight man on the run from the mob hides in what he assumes is the last place anyone would look, he’s swept into a whirlwind of flamboyant personalities, mistaken identities, and escalating comedic chaos. With its campy humor, bold characters, and rapid‑fire pacing, the production embraces the era’s theatrical flair while delivering a fresh, high‑energy experience for modern audiences. More info

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ALSO THIS WEEK

• Run for the Wall Welcome Event
  • The Twenty-Nine Palms Band of Mission Indians welcomes participants of Run for the Wall on Wednesday from 8–11 am at Shelee’s Travel Center. Over 400 motorcyclists make their first fueling stop for complimentary gas and refreshments during this annual cross-country ride honoring veterans and military families.
• The Gand Band: Viva Trini Lopez
  • The Gand Band performs on Wednesday from 7–8:30 pm at the Cascade Lounge at the Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs. This joyful birthday celebration honors the music of Trini Lopez, featuring Latin flair and folk rhythms .
• The Lofts Art Walk
  • Explore eight gallery and work studios during this event on Thursday at The Lofts Art District from 4–7 pm. The walk features a dynamic mix of styles including geometric abstraction, graphic screen printing, and hyper-surrealism.
• Pirates of the Queeribbean
  • College of the Desert’s Pride Student Leaders host this Pride Showcase on Thursday from 4:30–6 pm at the College of the Desert, Pollock Theater. The event celebrates LGBTQIA student achievement and talent.
• Hell-Bent For Leather
  • Michael Pacas presents this personal evening of music and storytelling on Thursday from 7–8:30 pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center/Camelot Theatre. The performance explores identity and growing up queer in the church.
• The Music of Irving Berlin
  • Step into the golden age of American music on Thursday from 7–8:30 pm at the Cascade Lounge at the Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs, celebrating the influential songwriter who shaped Broadway, Hollywood, and the American songbook.
• Sunnylands Tour Tickets
  • Monthly blocks of tickets for June visits to the historic house go on sale Friday from 9–10 am at Sunnylands Center & Gardens. These tickets are only available online and sell out fast, though visiting the gardens and center is always free.
• Mikael Healey’s Baby Grand: Bella Voce
  • Pianist Mikael Healey and vocalist Anna Magno perform on Friday from 7–9 pm at Spirit Animal @ Hotel Zoso. This intimate, in-the-round concert experience features a white baby grand piano at center stage.
• Films in the Gardens: The NeverEnding Story
  • Sunnylands Center & Gardens concludes its outdoor movie series on Friday from 8–10 pm with a screening of The NeverEnding Story. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets for this free event.
• Reefer Madness Live: The Sloshed Dinner Show Series
  • This immersive production of Reefer Madness occurs Saturday–Sunday at Spirit Animal at Hotel Zoso. The 21+ show features dinner and a partially intoxicated cast performing cult-classic storytelling with live musical numbers and improv.
• Finding Balance in Your Life
  • This four-week meditation course explores practical ways to develop a calm mind on Sunday from 10–11:30 am at the Dharmachakra Kadampa Buddhist Center. Through guided meditations, participants learn to respond to life’s challenges with equanimity and peace while cultivating inner balance.
• The Judy Show!
  • Celebrated entertainer Michael Holmes parodies the spirit of Judy Garland on Sunday from 5–8 pm at the Purple Room Supper Club. This blend of comedy and music features a razor-sharp wit and nonstop laughs.

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ONGOING EVENTS

• MONDAY • Mahjong Mondays from 1–3:30 pm: This American style game is played at The Social Cafe and Play Lounge. • Hot Spot Bingo from 7–8:30 pm: Deven & Ned host this party featuring comedy and music in the Cascade Lounge at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs.
• TUESDAY • Let’s Bingo Again from 7–10 pm: Hostess Vanity Halston leads this game at King’s Highway in the ACE Hotel & Swim Club.
• WEDNESDAY–FRIDAY • Out in the I.E. from 9 am–5 pm: This exhibition at the Civil Rights Institute of Inland Southern California celebrates LGBTQ+ history through archived objects from the desert.
• THURSDAY • Villagefest from 6–10 pm: Local businesses celebrate food, entertainment, art, and shopping at this street fair on Palm Canyon Drive.
• THURSDAY–SUNDAY • Steel Magnolias Thursday–Saturday from 7–10 pm and Sunday at 2:30 pm at Theatre 29 in Twentynine Palms.
• FRIDAY • Drag Bingo at Arrive from 4:30–7 pm: Friends are invited for rounds of bingo and happy hour deals at the Arrive Hotel. • Disco Drag Bingo from 6–8 pm: Hostess Ember Vain leads an interactive night of bingo, disco sing-alongs, and performance numbers at V Wine Lounge & Martini Bar.
• SATURDAY • Dance Ranch / Country Dance Saturdays from 7–9:30 pm: Jan Alden teaches a beginner waltz lesson at 7 pm followed by dancing at Step by Step Dance Studio.
• ALL WEEK • A Queer Arcana: Art, Magic, and Spirit: This exhibition at Palm Springs Art Museum explores how esoteric knowledge and spiritual practices shaped queer art and culture through intergenerational artists. • Convergence – Artist Marcus Doyle creates a feeling of an alien presence connecting with the landscape in this series at Rubine Red Gallery.

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SAY KGAY to Save on 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% storewide at checkout with promo code SAYKGAY – Shop Now

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Spring 2026 Visitor Map & Guide – FREE!

Check out the Spring 2026 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, all curated to make exploring the valley even easier. Look for the latest edition at businesses and newsstands around town, as well as at hotels, visitor centers, and participating sponsors, or view it online.

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THIS WEEKEND

SAT–SUN: Long Beach Pride

Long Beach Pride returns May 16–17 for its 42nd annual celebration, bringing three days of community, entertainment, and LGBTQ+ visibility to Marina Green Park. Sunday at 10 am it’s the famous Long Beach Pride™ parade, and the festival features multiple live‑music stages, drag performances, DJs, food and drink vendors, and more than 150 arts and crafts booths. More info

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SAT: Duran, Duran, Duran

Agave Caliente Terraza continues its free outdoor concert series with Duran, Duran, Duran: A Tribute to Duran Duran on Saturday, May 16 at 8 pm. Dance in a neon‑bright night of ’80s new‑wave nostalgia, complete with shimmering synths, sleek vocals, and the iconic sound that defined MTV’s early era. This high‑energy tribute brings the band’s biggest hits to life on the open‑air stage at Agua Caliente Casino Cathedral City. More info

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SUN: International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia & Biphobia

Observed globally on Sunday, May 17, the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia (IDAHOBIT) highlights the 2026 theme, “At the heart of democracy,” reflecting on how equity, justice, and inclusion form the foundation of thriving democratic communities. First celebrated in 2005, IDAHOBIT commemorates the World Health Organization’s 1990 decision to declassify homosexuality as a mental disorder. More info

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SUN: The Westminster Chorus

The award‑winning Westminster Chorus performs at The Plaza Theatre on Sunday, May 17 from 3–5 pm as part of the Desert Classical Series. Under the direction of Dr. Dan Wessler, this internationally acclaimed ensemble—winners of the Choir of the World Pavarotti Trophy and multiple Barbershop Harmony Society gold medals—brings its signature precision, warmth, and youthful energy to the stage. More info

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LOOKING AHEAD

Join Team KGAY for Marilyn’s 100th (And Get a Free T!)

Palm Springs is going platinum for Marilyn Monroe’s 100th birthday, and you can help set a world record on Saturday, May 30. When you register, be sure to scroll down and select KGAY 103.1 from the team drop‑down menu. KGAY team members will also receive a special “SAY KGAY” T‑shirt. To ensure you’re included, just send a quick email to mile@KGAYPalmSprings.com after registering. Your $75 registration includes the full Icon Kit—the white dress, platinum wig, Visit Palm Springs cat‑eye sunglasses, and a martini glass. Join the celebration, strike a pose in a sea of Marilyns, and represent KGAY 103.1!

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• “Cathedral City Takes Flight” – State of the City
  Tue. May 12 from 10:30 am–12:30 pm at the Doubletree Golf Resort
• Harvey Milk Diversity Breakfast
  Thu. May 14 from 8:30–10:30 am at The Palm Springs Convention Center
• Joshua Tree Music Festival
  May 14–17 at Joshua Tree Lake Campground
• Agua Caliente Indian Reservation 150th Anniversary
  Fri May 15 from 10 am–5 pm at the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum
• The Ritz – presented by Palm Canyon Theatre
  May 8–17
• A Man of No Importance – presented by The BENT
  May 8–24 at the Palm Springs Cultural Center
• Desert Classical Series Presents The Westminster Chorus
  Sun. May 17 at 3 pm at The Plaza Theatre
• The Merry Widow – presented by Palm Canyon Theatre
  May 21–24
• Silver Foxes – presented by Revolution Stage Company
  May 12–31
• Pool Party for a Cause
  Fri. May 22 from 6–9 pm at Palm Springs Surf Club
• 3rd Annual Pink Ball
  Sat. May 23 from 6–9 pm at V Wine Lounge & Martini Bar
• House Party PS: Pink Saturday 4
  Sat Jun 6 from 5–8 pm in Palm Springs
• Tidal Wave Party 18: SPACE!
  Jun 18–21 at Hilton Palm Springs
• Gay Wine Weekend – 15th Anniversary Celebration
  July 17–19 in Sonoma Valley

This Weekend: DJ Galaxy fires up the weekend with his signature fun‑forward energy, taking over Fur Friday at Hunters Nightclub at 4 pm. His vibe rolls into Saturday at Vista Grande Resort from 12–3 pm, bringing sun‑soaked grooves perfect for poolside play. Meanwhile Modgirl steps in on Friday, May 15 at 4 pm for DJ at Dusk: Poolside Sounds at The Skylark, shaping the afternoon with her rhythmic pulse and effortless cool.

This Way Out, the award‑winning weekly LGBTQ radio program, airs every Sunday at 6:30 a.m. on KGAY 103.1 and is also available on‑demand via our streaming player under Menu>Streams>Podcasts. As the only internationally distributed LGBTQ radio show, it airs on about 200 community stations worldwide and delivers global queer news, reporting, interviews, and cultural features.