Is Long Beach Pride’s cancellation a precursor to what’s to come? Has the Trump administration won? Let’s hope not.
And I don’t mean to ring the death knell to LGBTQ+ celebrations and liberties as we’ve known them, but the chipping away of our rights under this regime is noticeable.
It’s trans healthcare here, a rainbow crosswalk there. And before you know it, we’re back in the dark ages.
Now it’s not fair to blame the cancellation on political ideology. But it’s just one more “win” for those who want to take away the rights we’ve worked so hard for over the past decades.
I can imagine the Fox News commentators gloating over this failure for an all-volunteer Pride organization to secure proper permits before the event.
Long Beach Pride President Tonya Martin took to Instagram to write: “Long Beach Pride is deeply disappointed by the City’s decision to cancel the Long Beach Pride Festival, a long-standing community institution built by volunteers, sustained by love, and rooted in the belief that every person deserves to live openly, safely, and with dignity.”
Rep. Robert Garcia responded with a post of support, telling supporters how important Long Beach Pride was to his coming out experience. He went on to say, “Pride is more than a festival. It is the parade down Ocean Boulevard, the Dyke March, local LGBTQ+ bars, community events, neighborhood celebrations, chosen family, and the people who keep showing up for one another.” (The parade did continue.)
What really happened will come out over time. June Pride Month is just around the corner. Let’s hope that more Pride’s don’t face the same fate this year. Underlying is the strain on financial support that Pride organizations are receiving. One strategy of the Trump administration was to vilify DEI, and to pressure corporations into dropping support for events like Pride. We’ve seen that play out for Palm Springs Pride where revenue and sponsorship was down last year.
Let’s hope that our 40th Palm Springs Pride celebration in November will gain the community and corporate support it deserves to continue on. Events like Big Gay BBQ and Marilyn 100 are small ways you can help keep our Pride going strong. I’m looking forward to a robust (and properly permitted) Pride celebration for the Coachella Valley.
Brad Fuhr, your K-Gay Desert Guide
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WED: Monthly Queer Women’s Social at Saffron Restaurant
The LGBTQ Community Center of The Desert’s Monthly Queer Women’s Social returns on Wednesday, May 20 from 5:30–7 pm at Saffron Restaurant and Lounge. Held every third Wednesday, this rotating meetup offers a relaxed space for queer women to connect, build community, and enjoy great conversation in a welcoming environment. Each month features a new venue, giving attendees a chance to explore local spots while strengthening community ties.
Firebirds Quest for the Calder Cup
Following a tough Game 3 loss to the Colorado Eagles, the Coachella Valley Firebirds are determined to strike back as the Pacific Division Finals continue in Loveland, CO. Catch Game 4 on Wednesday, May 20 at 6 pm PT and Game 5 (if necessary) on Friday, May 22 at 6 pm PT at official Bar Network Watch Parties hosted by Taproom 29 in Coachella and Burgers & Beer in La Quinta and Rancho Mirage. Rally the Valley and show your Firebirds pride from right here in the desert!
WED: UNSTOPPABLE: A Drag Spectacle
UNSTOPPABLE: A Drag Spectacle takes the stage at Oscar’s Palm Springs on Wednesday, May 20 at 7 pm, with doors opening at 5:30 pm for an evening centered on resilience, artistry, and the transformative power of drag performance. Hosted by LaWanda Jackson, a beloved entertainer and stroke survivor, the show features a remarkable lineup of drag artists from across the country who have navigated life‑altering physical challenges—including stroke, Parkinson’s disease, and other conditions—and fought their way back to the spotlight. More info
THU: Women Who Lead Luncheon
Palm Springs Life presents the Women Who Lead Luncheon on Thursday, May 21 from 11 am–2 pm at The Ritz‑Carlton, Rancho Mirage. The event honors outstanding women shaping the Coachella Valley, with keynote speaker Barbara Boxer, former U.S. Senator and local resident. This year’s honorees include Julie Bloom, Cindy Burreson, and Priscilla Zamarron, recognized for leadership across business, nonprofit work, and healthcare. The luncheon benefits the IECF Women’s Giving Fund and Do The Right Thing.
More info
THU: Silver Foxes
Silver Foxes, the hit comedy by writers James Berg & Stan Zimmerman, begins its run at Revolution Stage Company, opening Thursday, May 21 at 7 pm and running May 21–31. This witty and heartfelt play follows four longtime friends navigating senior dating apps after an unexpected loss, blending humor with themes of resilience, friendship, and second chances. Fans of The Golden Girls and Grace and Frankie will appreciate its warm, character‑driven storytelling. More info
FRI: Harvey Milk Day
Harvey Milk Day arrives this Friday, May 22, and it’s the perfect moment to revisit the voices and stories that continue to shape our movement. KGAY was on site at the Harvey Milk Diversity Breakfast held last week, capturing powerful conversations with Dennis & Judy Shepard, Andy & Cathy Mills, Brandon Wolf, and more—now available to watch on our Facebook page. You can also dive deeper into the event with thoughtful coverage from The Hollywood Times.
FRI: Pool Party For A Cause
Pool Party For A Cause comes to the Palm Springs Surf Club on Friday, May 22 from 6–9 pm, benefiting the Palm Springs Animal Shelter. The evening begins with a pre‑party Happy Hour from 4–6 pm, offering $8 well drinks and house wines before the main event moves poolside. Guests enjoy exclusive access to River Island and the Lazy River, creating a relaxed, summer‑ready atmosphere perfect for the summer’s first big weekend. DJ Galaxy spins live throughout the night. With great music, water features, and a strong community purpose, it’s a standout way to support local animal welfare while kicking off Memorial Day Weekend. More info
FRI: The Merry Widow at Palm Canyon Theatre
Coachella Valley Classical Voices presents The Merry Widow at Palm Canyon Theatre, running Friday–Sunday, May 22–24. This beloved operetta blends romance, intrigue, and sparkling humor as a wealthy widow’s fortune becomes the center of attention at a lavish Parisian ball. Featuring Jenne Carey as Hanna Glawari, the production showcases lush music and elegant staging. More info
FRI: WILD at The Sonoran
The Eagle Cathedral City (coming soon) launches Memorial Day Weekend with WILD on Friday, May 22 from 9 pm–2 am at The Sonoran. This late‑night dance party transforms the venue into a high‑energy nightlife destination, featuring DJ James Anthony and DJ Matt Effect, a packed dance floor, and a crowd ready to go all in for the holiday weekend. More info
FRI–SAT: Desertopia Memorial Day Weekend 2026
Desertopia returns with a full‑scale, very queer celebration of music, dance, art, and pure Palm Springs expression, unfolding across multiple venues from Friday–Saturday, May 22–23, beginning on Friday with a high‑energy night at 4707 Events, then shifting into a caftan‑laden pool takeover at The Sonoran on Saturday before the evening ignites again inside the venue. This year’s lineup brings major queer talent to the desert, including Horse Meat Disco, X3Butterfly, Father Figure and more. More info
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
ALSO THIS WEEK
- The Carole King and James Taylor Story
- Phoebe Katis and Dan Clews perform a loving tribute to these music legends on Monday at 7:30 pm at The Plaza Theatre.
- Tryppin’ Tuesday Nights — Non-Profit Spotlight Mixer
- This event benefits The Tysen Knight Scholarship Fund on Tuesday from 5–8 pm at Revel Palm Desert.
- Rancho Mirage Speakers Series
- Scott White and Sean Smith of Visit Greater Palm Springs discuss the Coachella Valley Economic Development Strategic Plan on Wednesday from 11:30 am–1:30 pm at the Rancho Mirage Chamber of Commerce.
- Hannah Rose Dexter and the True Joys of Life
- Hannah Rose Dexter brings a reflective sensibility to the stage on Thursday at 7 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs.
- Hell-Bent for Leather
- Michael Pacas presents a personal evening of music and storytelling on Thursday at 7 pm at Palm Springs Cultural Center/Camelot Theatre. The show explores identity and growing up queer in the church, capturing the moment one finally stops apologizing for who they truly are.
- Steel Magnolias
- This heartwarming and hilarious story runs Thursday–Sunday through May 24 at Theatre 29 in Twentynine Palms.
- Billy L’Amour & The Love Notes
- Billy L’Amour & The Love Notes deliver vintage romance and show-stopping vocals on Friday from 7–9 pm at Spirit Animal @ Hotel Zoso.
- That Arena Rock Show
- Agave Caliente Terraza presents a full-scale tribute to the biggest arena rock anthems of the ’70s and ’80s on Friday at 8 pm.
- Carissa Gomez Comedy Show
- Carissa Gomez delivers sharp, fearless, and laugh-out-loud stand-up comedy on Friday from 8–9:30 pm at Spotlight 29 Casino.
- Nutrition: Sorting Science from Hype
- Dr. Carsten Smidt leads a science-based discussion on dietary supplements on Saturday from 11 am–12:30 pm at The LGBTQ Center of the Desert. He separates evidence from marketing hype regarding multivitamins, vitamin D, and omega-3s. The interactive session explores how protein intake and metabolism affect well-being after sixty-five.
- Avery Pearson’s Comedian Rhapsody
- Host Avery Pearson creates a musical comedy spectacular on Saturday from 7–9 pm at Spirit Animal @ Hotel Zoso, featuring Justine Marino and Justin Martindale.
- Dance Ranch / Country Dance Saturdays
- This country western dance group serving the LGBTQ+ community meets on Saturday from 7–9:30 pm at Step by Step Dance Studio. Lise Baadh teaches a beginner East Coast swing lesson followed by general dancing.
- JUMP – America’s Van Halen Experience
- This high-energy tribute captures the iconic guitar work and stage presence of Van Halen on Saturday at 8 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Cathedral City.
- Palm Springs Retro Market
- This edition marks the season finale of the market on Sunday from 10 am–3:30 pm at Palm Springs Cultural Center/Camelot Theatre.
- The Judy Show!
- Michael Holmes parodies Judy Garland on Sunday at 5 pm at Purple Room Supper Club in this seasonal finale. Holmes nails female icons of the Golden Age of Hollywood with a razor-sharp wit and killer wardrobe. The Purple Room begins its summer break next week.
- The Sound of Music
- The historic Plaza Theatre hosts a screening of this classic film on Sunday at 7:30 pm.
- Made in America – A Tribute to Toby Keith
- This patriotic performance features Rich Eckhardt, the longtime guitarist for Toby Keith, on Sunday at 8 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Cathedral City.
ONGOING EVENTS
- MONDAY • Hot Spot Bingo from 7–8:30 pm: Play a party-style game featuring comedy, music, and prizes with Deven & Ned in the Cascade Lounge at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs.
- TUESDAY • Let’s Bingo Again from 7–10 pm: Host Vanity Halston invites guests to King’s Highway inside the ACE Hotel & Swim Club for a night of food, marking squares, and winning prizes.
- THURSDAY • Villagefest from 6–10 pm: Visit this street fair on Palm Canyon Drive to enjoy food, entertainment, art, and shopping from local valley businesses.
- ALL WEEK • A Queer Arcana: Art, Magic, and Spirit: Intergenerational artists explore how magic, spirituality, and esoteric knowledge shaped queer culture at the Palm Springs Art Museum. • Convergence: Experience images by Marcus Doyle creating the feeling of an alien presence connecting with the nocturnal desert landscape at Rubine Red Gallery.
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
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.
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!
THIS WEEKEND
SAT: Pink Ball
The 3rd Annual Pink Ball takes place on Saturday, May 23 from 6–9 pm at V Wine Lounge & Martini Bar. This party‑forward fundraiser supports the Transgender Health & Wellness Center’s Domestic Violence and Rapid Rehousing Program. Guests are encouraged to dress in pink for an evening of elevated bites, cocktails, and community celebration. More info
SAT: Rob Thomas
Rob Thomas brings his acclaimed songwriting and dynamic stage presence to The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa on Saturday, May 23 at 7:30 pm. With more than 80 million records sold across his solo career and work with Matchbox Twenty, Thomas continues to deliver emotionally resonant performances. His latest album, All Night Days, showcases the introspective storytelling that defines his artistry. More info
SUN: IML Viewing Party
The Palm Springs Cultural Center brings the leather community together for an exciting IML Viewing Party on Sunday, May 24 from 3–6 pm. Hosted by @thepuphades, the event features special appearances from @rene_jacque_strappe, @honeydavenportofficial, and @thyromeo as they cheer on this year’s competitors and celebrate Palm Springs’ vibrant leather titleholders. Guests will enjoy the International Mr. Leather contest broadcast on the largest screen in Palm Springs, all while supporting the Cultural Center through this community‑driven fundraiser. More info
SUN: WET at The Sonoran
The Eagle Cathedral City’s Memorial Day party weekend keeps the momentum going with WET, the daytime pool party taking over The Sonoran on Sunday, May 24 from 12–5 pm. The afternoon unfolds with sun‑drenched beats from DJ Max Bruce and DJ John LePage, ice‑cold cocktails, and a stylish pool deck that’s a prime destination for anyone looking to dance, lounge, or cool off between sets. Guests are encouraged to arrive early to secure the best lounge space. More info
MON: Memorial Day Service at the California LGBTQ Veterans Memorial
The 25th anniversary of America’s first LGBTQ Veterans Memorial is honored with a solemn Memorial Day Service on Monday, May 25 from 9–11 am, held at the California LGBTQ Veterans Memorial at Desert Memorial Park. This annual gathering pays tribute to all fallen service members and deceased veterans, featuring guest speakers, musical selections, and a presentation by the Desert Winds Freedom Band. Community members, veterans, families, and allies come together at Desert Memorial Park in Cathedral City to reflect, remember, and recognize the sacrifices made in service to our nation.
MON: Memorial Day Air Fair & Flower Drop
The Palm Springs Air Museum commemorates Memorial Day with its annual Memorial Day Air Fair & Flower Drop on Monday, May 25 from 10 am–5 pm, honoring fallen U.S. service members with a full day of ceremonies and aviation experiences. The Air Fair opens at 10 am, leading into the 1 pm Flower Drop Memorial Ceremony, followed by the dramatic 2 pm flower drop after the Missing Man formation. Throughout the day, guests can explore aircraft displays, enjoy kids’ activities, and visit multiple food vendors, all included with regular museum admission. More info
FRI–MON: Memorial Day Weekend at the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
Summer kicks off in the coolest way as the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway launches its Memorial Day Weekend lineup, featuring extended evening hours, guided nature walks, and the start of seasonal programs at Mount San Jacinto State Park. Beginning Friday, May 22, summer hours include the last tram up at 9 pm and the last tram down at 10:30 pm every Friday and Saturday, with Peaks Restaurant seating until 8:45 pm and Pines Café open until 9:30 pm. Holiday hours on Sunday, May 24 match the extended schedule, while Monday, May 25 begins early with the first tram up at 8 am. Sunday nature walks resume May 24 with easy guided hikes at 11 am and 1:30 pm, offering a refreshing mountaintop escape all season long.
Ask a Gay Doc Episode 35: Thinking Healthy & Aging Happy
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 35, Damon L. Jacobs, Marriage and Family Therapist, author and host of the YouTube series Tub Talks With Damon joins John and Dr. Corzano to discuss ways we can change our thinking to live happier and healthier as we age. 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.
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!
- A Man of No Importance – presented by The BENT
May 8–24 at the Palm Springs Cultural Center - 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 - Michael Childers Nude Yoga Series Photography Exhibit
Fri. & Sat. May 29 & 30 at Art @401 N. Palm Springs - Villain Arts Palm Springs Tattoo Arts Festival
Fri.–Sun. May 29–31 at the Palm Springs Convention Center - House Party PS: Pink Saturday 4
Sat. Jun 6 from 5–8 pm in Palm Springs - Catalina Island Pride
Sat. & Sun. Jun 12–13 - Equality Wine & Food Festival
Sat. Jun 13 from 12–4 pm at Hyatt Palm Springs - Gay Wine Weekend – 15th Anniversary Celebration
July 17–19 in Sonoma Valley
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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 nonstop 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: DJ Galaxy keeps the energy high at Vista Grande Resort on Wednesday from 12–3 pm and Saturday from 12–3 pm. He also provides the live soundtrack for Pool Party For A Cause on Friday from 6–9 pm at the Palm Springs Surf Club. Modgirl brings her effortless cool and rhythmic pulse to DJ At Dusk: Poolside Sounds on Friday at 4 pm at The Skylark.
Sunny 106.5 FM
Take the sunshine indoors with the Sunny 106.5 Alexa skill — just tell Alexa to “enable Sunny Palm Springs Radio skill” and the brightest variety will be one voice command away at home or at work. Sunny 106.5 is the Coachella Valley’s new home for feel‑good hits from the ’90s, 2000s, and beyond, blending familiar favorites with local updates and weekday weather from Patrick Evans. Play Sunny 106.5 Online
WIN TICKETS to the Palm Springs 70mm Fest
Sunny 106.5 is giving you the chance to WIN TICKETS to the Palm Springs 70mm Fest 2026, where you can experience iconic films like Close Encounters of the Third Kind, The Searchers, 2001: A Space Odyssey, Boogie Nights, Lawrence of Arabia, and West Side Story in stunning 70mm at the Historic Camelot Theatre. ENTER TO WIN on the Sunny 106.5 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 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.
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.