Gay Desert Guide: Week of May 4, 2026

Vacations are starting already and kids of all ages are thinking about their summer break. I am just returning from an amazing Brandg Vacations expedition cruise to the Caribbean.  It’s a bit early for me to up and leave work at the end of ‘season’.  But the opportunity arose, and I’m not getting any younger. As I chatted with my fellow travelers – some 25 from the Palm Springs area — I got nostalgic for those summer vacations when I was a child.

YMCA camp was a highlight as was vacation bible school and frequent trips to the dozens of lakes that surrounded my childhood home in Michigan.  There was usually a family vacation to a new destination — always in our station wagon with grandma in tow!

I travel with a reminder of relaxation: an advertisement from a life insurance company that was first printed in the early 1920s.   It’s a great essay on the importance of taking a break. 

So the very best advice I’ve seen about recreating came from the president of the Metropolitan Life Insurance Company in New York City in the form of an advertisement for his company’s policies. 

It starts with the headline:

Are You Happy?

He goes on to show that doing the opposite of your normal routine is a recipe for leisure:

“Ask a hundred people what they want most in the world and the answer is likely to be – Happiness.

To some, Happiness is represented by riches or fame. 

To others, leisure spells Happiness. But all agree that there can be no real Happiness without Health.

Tom Sawyer and Huck Finn were the ideal vacationists. They took a vacation whether they needed it or not – and had fun!

This is what a real vacation means: 

To “vacate” your old environments, your regular occupation, your everyday self and have a complete change.

Try to get away from to things you have been doing all year and do the opposite.

The Postman Does Not Need a Walk:  He needs a hammock and a lazy time. The town man needs the quiet of the country – the country many needs the stimulus of the town. 

The mountaineer needs the ocean; the lowlander needs the hills. 

One man needs solitude-another needs company. 

Think of your own needs and plan the vacation that will do you most good.

There are two famous health doctors whom we advise you to consult. They are Dr. Sunshine and Dr. Fresh Air.

If you want more health, more energy, more enthusiasm, more earning power in the days to come, play hard and be happy.

Good advice, indeed! No matter what you have planned this summer, we’ll be here to keep you updated on what’s happening locally.

Brad Fuhr, your K-Gay Desert Guide

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MON: Blue Zones Project Palm Springs & Convergence Summit: Purpose Workshop

Discover your “why” at the Blue Zones Project Palm Springs & Convergence Summit: Purpose Workshop held on Monday, May 4 from 7–8:30 am. This interactive experience takes place at the Renaissance Palm Springs as part of the inaugural Convergence Beauty Wellness Science Summit. Created by celebrity hairstylists Ted Gibson and Jason Backe, the summit brings together beauty professionals and industry leaders for education and community building. Participants will engage in guided discovery activities and reflection exercises rooted in longevity principles to uncover what inspires them. More info

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TUE: HIV State Legislative Update 2025/2026

The Positive Life Series hosts an essential community session on Tuesday, May 5 from 6–8 pm, offering a clear and accessible breakdown of recent and upcoming HIV‑related legislation. Presented by Inland Counties Legal Services, the discussion translates complex policy into practical guidance for people living with HIV, covering enacted 2025 laws and what to expect in the 2026 legislative cycle. Attendees will gain insight into how new policies may affect rights, healthcare access, and daily life, all without the jargon that often makes legal updates difficult to navigate. Doors open at 5:30 pm, providing time to connect with community members before the program begins. More info

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WED: 1st Wednesday Art Walk @ Backstreet Art District

The Backstreet Art District opens its galleries and studios for the monthly Art Walk on Wednesday, May 6 from 5–7 pm, giving locals and visitors a chance to meet working artists and explore one of Palm Springs’ most creative enclaves. The district’s unique layout—studios in the back, galleries in the front—creates an intimate setting where guests can view new works, learn about artistic processes, and support local talent. More info

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WED: Rock the Park – Doobie Brothers Tribute

Downtown Park hosts its season finale of Rock the Park on Wednesday, May 6 from 7–9 pm, featuring the Doobie Brothers-inspired Listen to the Music, the final tribute performance in the December–May lineup. Set in the open‑air setting of Downtown Palm Springs, the concert brings together locals and visitors for an evening of live music under the desert sky. More info

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FRI–SUN: 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. More info

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FRI–SUN: 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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WED–SUN: Ernest Shackleton Loves Me

Ernest Shackleton Loves Me is a wildly inventive new musical comedy performing Wednesday–Sunday at CV Rep from April 22–May 10. The story follows a sleep-deprived single mom who connects through space and time with the famous polar explorer Ernest Shackleton. Together they overcome the odds in a timeless and very funny musical romance. Our theatre reviewer Stephen Radosh says “the pace never slackens, the surprises keep coming and the performances shine.” Read his full review and Get tickets

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ALSO THIS WEEK

• Star Wars: A New Hope
  • This screening of the classic film takes place on Monday at 7 pm at The Plaza Theater. Guests are encouraged to wear costumes and bring soft props, such as plastic light sabers.
• Border Grill Taco Tuesday Pop Up Series
  • Chefs Susan Feniger and Mary Sue Milliken present the season finale of their acclaimed Mexican cuisine pop-up on Tuesday from 5–9 pm at Alice B. The evening features a multi-course prix fixe menu including plantain empanadas, green corn tamales, and a choice of signature tacos.
• Jeffrey Siegel’s Keyboard Conversations®
  • Pianist Jeffrey Siegel performs and discusses well-loved works by Gershwin, Debussy, and Rachmaninoff on Tuesday from 7–9 pm at McCallum Theatre.
• Hope Diamond: Ladies of Soul
  • Multi-genre vocalist Hope Diamond brings her deep roots in jazz, R&B, and gospel to the stage on Wednesday from 7–8:30 pm at the Cascade Lounge at the Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs.
• Pino Noir
  • This electric gypsy jazz quartet delivers fiery arrangements and a high-octane sound on Thursday from 7–8:30 pm at the Cascade Lounge at the Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs.
• Films in the Gardens: Where the Wild Things Are
  • The outdoor movie series continues with a screening of the 2009 film on Friday from 8–10 pm at Sunnylands Center & Gardens. This free event, presented with the Palm Springs International Film Festival, follows a young boy’s adventure to an island filled with mysterious creatures.
• Palm Springs Symphony
  • The symphony presents “May Musical Mischief: A Symphony of Surprises” on Saturday at 7:30 pm at The Plaza Theater. The Mother’s Day celebration features guest pianist John Novacek performing works by Gershwin in a program filled with musical humor and unexpected twists.
• What’s New Pussycat? A Tom Jones Legacy Tribute
  • This free outdoor concert celebrates the timeless charisma of Tom Jones on Saturday at 8 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Cathedral City.
• Unbuttoned: A Boylesque Social Experience
  • Dancer Michael Silas, known for his work with Lady Gaga, performs an intimate evening of dance and storytelling on Saturday from 6–8:30 pm at The Social Cafe and Play Lounge.
• The Judy Show!
  • Michael Holmes parodies Judy Garland and various Golden Age icons in this high-camp blend of comedy and music on Sunday from 5–8 pm at the Purple Room Supper Club.

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ONGOING EVENTS

MONDAY • Mahjong Mondays from 1–3:30 pm: Play American-style mahjong at The Social Cafe and Play Lounge. • Hot Spot Bingo from 7–8:30 pm: Join Deven and Ned at the Cascade Lounge at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs for a party with comedy, music, and prizes.

TUESDAY • Let’s Bingo Again from 7–10 pm: This event at King’s Highway at the Ace Hotel & Swim Club is hosted by Vanity Halston and features bingo, food, and prizes.

THURSDAY • Villagefest from 6–10 pm: This unique street fair on Palm Canyon Drive brings together local businesses to celebrate food, entertainment, art, and shopping.

FRIDAY • Drag Bingo at Arrive from 4:30–7 pm: Join friends at the Arrive Hotel for rounds of bingo and enjoy happy hour deals.

SATURDAY • Second Saturday Book Swap from 12–4 pm: Participate in a curated book swap at the Perez Road Art and Design District focused on art, design, and architecture with complimentary drinks and snacks. • Indio Second Saturdays at 7 pm: This free community event in Downtown Indio on Miles Avenue and Smurr Street features live music, food vendors, family entertainment, and non-stop fun. • Dance Ranch / Country Dance Saturdays from 7–9:30 pm: Join a night of dancing at Step by Step Dance Studio including two-step, waltz, shadow, swing, and line dances.

ALL WEEK • A Queer Arcana: Art, Magic, and Spirit: This exhibition at the Palm Springs Art Museum explores how magic, spirituality, and esoteric knowledge have shaped queer art and culture.

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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

FRI: Ann Hampton Callaway: Here’s to Life

The Purple Room welcomes Ann Hampton Callaway on Friday & Saturday, May 8-9, offering an evening of expressive vocals and timeless songs in her uplifting show Here’s to Life. Enjoy dinner at 6 pm before the 8 pm performance, creating a full night of dining and entertainment in the iconic supper‑club setting. Callaway performs classics by Arlen, Porter, Rodgers, and the Bergmans, along with contemporary selections and original works. More info

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OPENS FRI: Steel Magnolias at Theatre 29

Theatre 29 in Twentynine Palms brings Robert Harling’s beloved Steel Magnolias to life in a heartfelt and humorous production running May 8–24. You are invited to step inside a Louisiana beauty parlor where six unforgettable women share laughter, resilience, and deep friendship through life’s joys and sorrows. More info

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OPENS SAT: Convergence at Rubine Red Gallery

Rubine Red Gallery invites you to Convergence, a striking exhibition by Marcus Doyle that reimagines the nocturnal desert as an otherworldly realm. The series features single‑frame, in‑camera images created without retouching or AI, each capturing the feeling of an alien presence merging with the landscape. The run spans May 9–June 4, with an Opening Night reception on Saturday, May 9 from 5–8 pm, offering your first chance to experience the work in an immersive gallery setting. More info

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FRI: Becky Robinson – The Beasts in Me Tour

A comic whirlwind hits the desert as Becky Robinson unleashes her wild characters, razor‑sharp wit, and high‑energy chaos at The Show. You are invited to experience the viral personas and bold stand‑up that have made her one of comedy’s breakout forces. Catch her live on Friday, May 8 from 8–9 pm, where every beast in her comedic arsenal takes the stage for a night of unpredictable fun. More info

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SAT: The Official IML Send‑Off Party

The Palm Springs Leather Order of the Desert hosts its Official IML Send‑Off Party on Saturday, May 9 from 8 pm–12 am. The event honors Mr. Palm Springs Leather, Honey Davenport, as he prepares to compete at International Mr. Leather. Held at Dick’s on Arenas, the gathering brings together the local leather community and supporters for an evening of camaraderie and Pride‑centered energy. More info

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SUN: Mother’s Day

TRIO invites guests to celebrate Mother’s Day in true Palm Springs style on Sunday, May 10, offering a full day of festive dining designed to honor moms with great food and lively energy. The restaurant opens early with a special brunch from 10 am–3 pm, featuring TRIO favorites and bottomless mimosas to keep the celebration going. Beginning at 4 pm, the evening continues with dinner service and chef‑driven specials. 🌹 One eleven bar hosts Not Your Mama’s Bingo on Sunday, May 10 from 4–6 pm, offering an afternoon of lively games, community connection, and spirited entertainment. Hosted by Vanity Halston, the event blends humor, friendly competition, and a welcoming atmosphere that draws both regulars and newcomers. All proceeds support the HIV+Aging Research Project, adding a meaningful philanthropic element to the fun. More info

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LOOKING AHEAD

PS Tramway Summer Passes Available Now

The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway kicks off summer with its popular Summer Pass, available now, offering one of the coolest escapes in the desert—literally. With mountaintop temperatures typically 30–40 degrees lower than the valley floor, passholders can enjoy unlimited Tram rides through August 31, plus discounts at Peaks Restaurant, Pines Café, and on additional admissions, along with free parking. Passes may be purchased online at pstramway.com/tickets or in person at Valley Station.

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• Blue Zones Project Palm Springs & Convergence Summit
  Mon. May 4 from 7–8:30 am at Renaissance Palm Springs
• Rock the Park: Listen to the Music (Doobie Brothers Tribute)
  Wed. May 6 at 7 pm at Downtown Palm Springs Park
• 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
• Ernest Shackleton Loves Me – presented by CVRep
  Apr 22–May 10
• “Cathedral City Takes Flight” – State of the City
  Tue. May 12 from 10:30 am–12:30 pm at the Doubletree Golf Resort
• Joshua Tree Music Festival
  May 14–17 at Joshua Tree Lake Campground
• Desert Classical Series Presents The Westminster Chorus
  Sun. May 17 at 3 pm at The Plaza Theatre
• 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
• 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 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.