My body hurts from a weekend of lifting, hugging and standing. Oh, and some dancing too. DJ Modgirl’s closing set on Sunday night gave me some time to reflect on the weekend. With her momentous set from Abba to Chic, Diana Ross to Sylvester, those who witnessed the final celebration of Palm Springs Pride got a treat. I couldn’t stand still even with aching legs.
After that, I was wiped out. I came home to a what had been my staging area for the weekend, but was really home. There were piles of changes of clothes everywhere. Buddy the Wonder Dog wonders where I’ve been all weekend. The garbage can was full of to-go boxes; the sink piled with dirty dishes. The counter filled with business cards, postcards and flyers that I’ve gathered from various booths and people I met. Will I remember the context?
I replay conversations in my head. One sticks: “You saved my life with KGAY!” I flashback to the Pride Parade (March) where I can picture the faces of those I saw along the route — friends from near and far who came out to support our LGBTQ + community during these troubled times.
My camera roll tells the story of a week’s worth of activities. From the time when Pre-Pride celebrations were on our mind (celebrations in Cathedral City and Acrisure Arena), to Friday night’s kickoff at the Hyatt for our incredible honorees, I documented many moments that will show as memories for years to come.
As Pride was winding down Sunday afternoon, I texted Ron deHarte to see if he’d been on the Ferris Wheel yet. We had been talking about taking a ride all week, and solo riders weren’t allowed. So we took a few minutes to stand in line and wait our turn to board the Coachella-famous wheel.
Rising above our city was such a sight to behold. The sun was still illuminating distant mountains and deserts as dusk fell on a shrouded Palm Canyon Drive. Music reverberated, revelers sashayed. Yet blocks away, the rest of the Coachella Valley was going about its regular business.
Not us. We were making a statement about the state of world affairs. Every person or business who supported Pride is a part of a movement that proves to the world that we will not be erased or marginalized. So thanks to each of you for your part. Our “Be Heard” theme resonated around the world and was timely in so many ways.
Now the planning starts for Pride 2026.
Brad Fuhr, your K-Gay Desert Guide
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Get Your 2025 KGAY Pride Shirt Online Now
If you weren’t able to get one of our T-Shirt Swaps in person at Palm Springs Pride this past weekend, fear not! You can still show your Pride and support KGAY by grabbing the official 2025 KGAY Pride Shirt online. Featuring a bold, celebratory design in your choice of colors and styles (classic-T, tank top, sweatshirt, v-neck, fitted scoop, and more) this limited-edition design lets you rep Palm Springs Pride wherever you are. Shop now
TUE: Veterans Day Ceremony at LGBTQ Veterans Memorial
Join the community on Tuesday, November 11 at 10 am for a moving Veterans Day Ceremony at the California LGBTQ Veterans Memorial in Desert Memorial Park. This inclusive tribute honors all who have served, with special music by Prince Fleet Easton and heartfelt recognition of LGBTQ veterans and allies. Palm Springs Police Officer Jorge Diaz will also be recognized for his exemplary service to both his country and community. More info
TUE: Palm Springs Veterans Day Parade
Honor our heroes at the Palm Springs Veterans Day Parade on Tuesday, November 11 from 3:30–5:30 pm along Palm Canyon Drive and E. Tahquitz Canyon Way. This free community event features a procession followed by a patriotic concert and fireworks finale at Amado Road. Celebrate service, sacrifice, and unity in the heart of downtown. More info
TUE: Veterans Day in Cathedral City
On Tuesday, November 11, Cathedral City invites the community to honor Veterans Day with a visit to the Fields of Valor, a powerful installation of more than 2,000 American flags saluting local veterans and fallen service members. The display, located at Patriot Park, includes dedicated areas for veterans of WWI, WWII, Korea, Vietnam, Iraq, Desert Storm, and Afghanistan, as well as a newly designated section recognizing service dogs. That evening, from 5–7:30 pm, the city hosts a free Veterans Day Cookout as part of Tastes & Sounds of Cathedral City, featuring live music by the Rancho Mirage High School Band and BBQ hot dogs available for purchase from Nick’s Bistro. More info
TUE & WED: Little Shop of Horrors
It’s two nights of musical mayhem as Musical Theatre University and Palm Springs Art Museum present Little Shop of Horrors under the stars on Tuesday and Wednesday, November 11 and 12 at 7 pm. Set in the Elrod Sculpture Garden, this stylish concert version features standout student performances alongside guest artists Jason Graae and Randy Brenner. Enjoy table seating, charcuterie, dessert, wine, and champagne courtesy of Willie Rhine and Eight4Nine. Get Tickets
WED: Gimme Shelter Luncheon
The Palm Springs Animal Shelter invites the community to its annual Gimme Shelter Luncheon on Wednesday, November 12 from 12–1 pm at the Ace Hotel & Swim Club. This free, one-hour gathering offers guests a meaningful look into the shelter’s mission, including updates on the Desert Wildlife Center and opportunities to pledge long-term support for the animals in their care. RSVP today
WED: Cheyenne Jackson Live in Concert
Cheyenne Jackson, acclaimed Broadway performer and television star, takes the stage at the Palm Springs Cultural Center on Wednesday, November 12 from 7–9 pm for a one-night-only concert presented by the Mizell Center. Known for his standout roles in Glee, American Horror Story, and 30 Rock — as well as his celebrated performances in Xanadu and Finian’s Rainbow — Jackson brings his powerhouse vocals and magnetic presence to an intimate evening of music and storytelling. Limited Tickets
THU: Rancho Mirage Business Expo
The Rancho Mirage Business Expo returns Thursday, November 13 from 4–7 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa Rancho Mirage, offering a dynamic platform for professionals to connect, collaborate, and showcase their brands. With hundreds of attendees and a reputation for selling out, this annual event is a prime opportunity to boost visibility, spark new partnerships, and engage with industry leaders across the Coachella Valley. More info
THU–SAT: Sutton Lee Seymour in “Witch, Please!”
Get ready for a whirlwind of campy comedy as Sutton Lee Seymour brings Witch, Please! to the Palm Springs Cultural Center at 7 pm nightly, Thursday–Saturday, November 13–15. From Oz to Wicked, Sutton spins the ultimate parody with ruby tap shoes, rapid-fire musical mashups, and witchy one-liners that’ll leave you cackling. Whether you’re a Broadway buff or just love a good laugh, this spellbinding show is not to be missed! Get tickets
THU–SUN: La Quinta Art Celebration Encore
The La Quinta Art Celebration returns Thursday–Sunday, November 13–16 at the La Quinta Civic Center, bringing together jury-selected artists from around the world for four days of creativity and connection. Set against the stunning backdrop of one of the Coachella Valley’s most picturesque venues, this premier event features original artworks, vibrant community energy, and a VIP experience that art lovers won’t want to miss. More info
THU–SUN: West Side Story in Concert, a Gala Celebration
Dezart Performs celebrates the grand opening of its new playhouse with West Side Story in Concert, a gala event running Thursday–Saturday, November 13–15. The festivities begin Thursday, November 13 from 5:30–9 pm with a patio reception followed by a live orchestral performance of the Tony award-winning musical. Set in a mid-century modern architectural gem, this tribute to 1957 blends timeless music, bold design, and community spirit. Get tickets
THU: “Deck the Walls” Opens at the Galen
Celebrate the season with the opening reception of “Deck the Walls” on Thursday, November 13 from 5–7 pm at the Artist Council Artist Center at the Galen in Palm Desert. This festive exhibition and sale showcases original works by local artists, offering a vibrant mix of styles perfect for holiday gifting or personal inspiration. Guests are invited to enjoy light refreshments while exploring the gallery and connecting with the creative community. More info
THU–SUN: Head over Heels
Desert TheatreWorks presents a musical journey through the kingdom of Arcadia with Head Over Heels, running through November 30. Fueled by the infectious hits of The Go-Go’s, this joyful production blends royal drama, mistaken identities, and heartfelt discovery into a celebration of love, freedom, and self-expression. Get tickets
FRI: Karen & Tony Barone Walk of Stars Dedication
Celebrate creativity and community on Friday, November 14 from 3:30–4 pm at Downtown Park in Palm Springs as Karen and Tony Barone receive their star on the Walk of Stars. This free dedication honors the beloved artist duo’s vibrant contributions to the city’s cultural landscape and enduring legacy. More info
FRI & SAT: Daniel LeClaire – “My Heart Belongs to Daddies”
Daniel LeClaire brings the sass, swing, and a wink of leather to the Palm Springs Cultural Center with My Heart Belongs to Daddies—a cabaret comedy running at 9 pm on Friday and Saturday, November 14 and 15. Directed by Tim Murray, this jazzy, elegant-ish evening features original songs, parodies, and Broadway favorites from icons like Elvis, Eartha Kitt, and Sinatra. Whether you’re rocking steel toe boots or boat shoes, it’s a cheeky tribute to daddies everywhere. Harness optional, fun guaranteed. Get tickets
FRI: Q+ After Dark – Euphoria
Palm Springs Art Museum invites guests to Q+ After Dark: EUPHORIA on Friday, November 14 from 6–9 pm—a luminous evening of music, art, and community in support of the Q+ Art Initiative. Featuring DJ Shaun J. Wright and honoring artist Nick Cave with a screening of his short film Drive-By, the event celebrates LGBTQ+ creativity and expression. Get tickets
OPENS FRI: The Roommate
Desert Ensemble Theatre presents The Roommate by Jen Silverman, opening Friday and running November 14–23 at the Palm Springs Cultural Center. Directed by Kudra Wagner, this dark comedy explores the twists of unlikely friendship and the messy beauty of reinvention. Fresh off a successful Broadway run, the play brings sharp wit and emotional depth to the stage in a production that promises both laughter and reflection. Get tickets
FRI Preview: Retro After Dark Estate Sale
Retro After Dark takes place on Saturday, November 15 from 10 pm–3 am with a bold and cheeky late-night vintage sale for adults 18+. Located near the Tool Shed and Club 541 (address shared upon RSVP), this no-cost event features thousands of retro adult-themed items—from magazines and leatherwear to artwork and novelty treasures. A limited preview sale takes place Friday, November 14 from 6–8 pm. RSVP now and prepare for a night of nostalgic naughtiness and playful finds. More info
Get our Pride 2025 Visitor Map & Guide – FREE!
Check out our Pride 2025 Edition of the K-Gay Desert Guide Visitor Map & Guide —just released! 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!
ALSO THIS WEEK
Monday, November 10
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, November 12
3rd Annual Big Gay Tupperware Party Happy Hour | 4–6 pm at one eleven bar
Veterans Dinner & Concert in the Park | 5–8:30 pm at Downtown Palm Springs Park
Hot Spot Bingo with Deven & Ned | 7–8:30 pm at Agua Caliente Cathedral City
Sutton Foster | 7 pm at the McCallum Theatre
Thursday, November 13
Carousel Live Retro Music | 7–8:30 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs
VillageFest Street Fair | 6–10 pm in Downtown Palm Springs
Friday, November 14
Drag Bingo/Trivia Nights (alternating) | 4:30–7 pm at Arrive Hotel
Food Truck Fridays | 5–10 pm in Downtown Indio
The Black Market Trust | 6–9:30 pm at The Purple Room
Lea Salonga | 8 pm at the McCallum Theatre
Jefferson Starship | 8 pm at The Show
Saturday, November 15
Quarterly Art Exhibits | 10 am–4 pm at Cathedral City Public Library
The Amy Winehouse Experience w/Mia Karter | 6–9:30 pm at The Purple Room
Dance Ranch: Barn Dance with Rob Ollander-Krane | 7 pm at Step by Step
Storm Large Holiday Show | 8 pm at the McCallum Theatre
Sunday, November 16
Quarterly Art Exhibits | 10 am–4 pm at Cathedral City Public Library
Elvis: The Early Years | 5–8:30 pm at The Purple Room
Gregory Douglass | 7 pm at Revolution Stage Company
Sunday & Monday, November 16 & 17
Mannheim Steamroller Christmas | 3 pm Sun and 7 pm Mon at the McCallum Theatre
THIS WEEKEND
Palm Springs International Food and Wine Festival
The Palm Springs International Food and Wine Festival is an extraordinary celebration of flavor, creativity, and the hip, cool, and bohemian vibe of the city. Taking place Saturday, November 15 and Sunday, November 16 at the Palm Springs Stadium Pavilion, the gastronomic extravaganza offers a unique experience running from 12–4 pm (with optional early VIP admission at 11 am). Attendees can indulge in an array of international foods and local specialties, enjoy an extensive selection of over 500 wines from around the world and watch live demonstrations from a powerhouse lineup of celebrity and emerging chefs, including Susan Feniger, Nik Sharma, Angelo Sosa, Elizabeth Falkner, and Joe Sasto. Get tickets
Real Talk, Real Health with Brothers of the Desert
Join Brothers of the Desert for Real Talk, Real Health on Saturday, November 15 from 9 am–1 pm at the Renaissance Palm Springs. This free, half-day Wellness Summit Preview centers holistic health for Black men and allies, featuring keynote speaker Dr. Daniel Driffin and a powerful lineup of community leaders. Expect inspiring conversations on mental wellness, HIV advocacy, and culturally responsive care — plus a complimentary lunch sponsored by Gilead Sciences. Space is limited, so RSVP today: More info
Book Signing with Lucie Arnaz
Spend a heartfelt afternoon with Lucie Arnaz on Saturday, November 15 from 1–4 pm at Just Fabulous in Palm Springs, as she unveils Lucy & Desi: The Love Letters. This exclusive book signing marks the first for her newly released collection of never-before-seen correspondence between Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz, offering a deeply personal glimpse into their legendary love story. Space and number of books is limited and demand is high — pre-order your signed copy today. More info
Kenny G.
Let the smooth sounds of Kenny G sweep you away on Saturday, November 15 from 8–10 pm at the Spotlight 29 Showroom. With over 75 million albums sold and a signature saxophone style that’s captivated audiences for decades, Kenny G brings his timeless hits and newest lullaby-inspired album Innocence to the stage for one captivating night. Get tickets
Magic of Lights
Get ready to sparkle! Magic of Lights returns to the Empire Polo Club November 15–December 31, transforming the grounds into a dazzling drive-through wonderland. This beloved holiday tradition features millions of lights, festive displays, and an enchanting Holiday Village powered by IID—all set beneath the starry skies of the Coachella Valley. Perfect for families, date nights, and seasonal selfies, it’s a celebration that shines brighter every year. Get tickets
Pawshion Week Palm Springs
Pawshion Week Palm Springs happens Saturday, November 15 from 2–4 pm with a runway event that’s all bark and all bite—in the best way. Hosted at a mid-century modern home (address shared upon RSVP), this stylish canine fashion show features fifteen fabulous pups strutting designer looks to benefit Friends of the Palm Springs Animal Shelter. Guests will enjoy mimosas, hors d’oeuvres, desserts, and a curated art showcase, all wrapped in tail-wagging glamour and community spirit. Get tickets
Mid-Century Magic at Rubine Red Gallery
Step into a world of nostalgia and vibrant detail at Mid-Century Magic, Geoffrey Gersten’s debut solo exhibition at Rubine Red Gallery, running November 15–December 16. Known for his masterful throwback realism, Gersten captures the essence of mid-century joy—from vintage treats to playful memories. Don’t miss the opening reception on Saturday, November 15 from 5–8 pm, where the artist’s iconic works come to life in the heart of Palm Springs. More info
Ice Castles & Inside Stories
Festival Theaters hosts a special screening of Ice Castles on Saturday, November 15 at 6 pm, followed by an on-stage conversation with star Lynn-Holly Johnson. Presented by The Desert Figure Skating Club, this heartfelt evening revisits the beloved 1978 film and its enduring message of love and resilience. Johnson shares behind-the-scenes stories from her skating and acting journey, offering fans a rare glimpse into the making of a classic. VIP Reception to follow at V Wine Lounge. Get tickets
Joshua Treenial “Desert Futures”
Joshua Treenial’s second weekend unfolds Friday–Sunday, November 14–16 with a dynamic lineup of workshops, performances, and exhibitions exploring the theme Desert Futures. Highlights include mycomaterial innovation with Sam Shoemaker, immersive sound at the Integratron, and thought-provoking installations at BoxoPROJECTS, Goat Gallery, and Harrison House. From ecosomatic landscapes to experimental hieroglyphs, each event invites reflection on adaptation, reinvention, and the creative pulse of the desert. 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!
- Palm Springs Veterans Day Parade
Tue. Nov 11 from 3:30–5:30 pm in Downtown Palm Springs - Mizell Center Presents Cheyenne Jackson Live in Concert
Wed. Nov 12 at 7 pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center - Rancho Mirage Business Expo and Job Fair
Thu. Nov 13 from 4–7 pm at Agua Caliente Rancho Mirage - La Quinta Art Celebration
Thu.–Sun. Nov 13–16 at La Quinta Civic Center - West Side Story in Concert: A Gala Celebration
Thu.–Sat. Nov 13–15 at 7 pm at Dezart Playhouse - Sutton Lee Seymour – “Witch, Please”
Thu.–Sat. Nov 13–15 at 7 pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center - Head Over Heels feat. songs by The Go-Go’s
Nov. 7–30 at Desert Theatreworks - Daniel LeClaire – “My Heart Belongs to Daddies”
Fri. & Sat., Nov 14 & 15 at 9 pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center - Kenny G. at the Spotlight Showroom
Sat. Nov 15 at 8 pm at Spotlight 29 Casino - Classic Elton with The Desert Symphony
Thu. Nov 20 at 7 pm at The Show at Agua Caliente Rancho Mirage - Hedwig & The Angry Inch
Thu.–Sat. Nov 20–22 at 7:30 pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center - 11th Annual Cathedral City International Hot Air Balloon Festival
Fri.–Sun. Nov 21–23 at Cathedral City Civic Center Plaza - Desert Winds Freedom Band: For the Heroic, Bright and Beautiful
Sat. Nov 22 at 7 pm at the Jewish Community Center - Premium Bourbon Tasting
Mon. Dec 1 from 6–8 pm at The Purple Room Supper Club - Rock the Park: The Springsteen Experience
Wed. Dec 3 at 7pm at Downtown Palm Springs Park - David Bowie Tribute: David Brighton’s Space Oddity Concert
Sat. Dec 6 at 7:30 pm at The Riviera Resort & Spa - Texas Tenors Christmas Concert with The Desert Symphony
Wed. Dec 10 at 7:30 pm at The Show - Modern Men Presents “Cool Yule”
Sat. Dec 13 at 7 pm and Sun. Dec 14 at 3 pm at the Plaza Theatre - Palm Springs Gay Men’s Chorus: Bells, Brass & Sass
Fri.–Sun. Dec 19–21 at the Palm Springs Plaza Theatre - Palm Springs International Film Festival
Jan 2–13, 2026 – Passes on Sale Now - Palm Springs International Film Awards
Sat. Jan 3, 2026 – Tickets on Sale Now
KGAY Travel is an outstanding gay travel specialist, and Steven Krumholz, also known as Steven K, is an absolute gem in the industry. With his expertise and passion for LGBTQ+ travel, Steven goes above and beyond to curate unforgettable experiences for his clients. Learn more
Querencia Palms is now selling 14 fully renovated condos in South Palm Springs, offering fee simple ownership with no land lease and HOA-approved short-term rentals. These stylish 1- and 2-bedroom units feature midcentury-inspired finishes, smart home upgrades, and resort-style amenities in a charming community setting. Learn more
Canopy Wine Lounge is a dynamic destination nestled in the vibrant landscape of Palm Springs, and it’s the venue for That Totally 80’s Party this Saturday from 7–10 pm, featuring DJ Galaxy! Designed by acclaimed interior designer Christopher Kennedy, the lounge features a modern, stylish aesthetic that sets the stage for casual evenings, special occasions, and private events alike. 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
Modgirl lights up the desert this week with a whirlwind of appearances across Palm Springs and beyond. Catch her Wednesday, November 12 at 9 pm bringing disco flair to Wednesday Night Fever at The Red Barn in Palm Desert. On Thursday and Saturday, she returns to Lola Rose at The Thompson Palm Springs at 8 pm for two unforgettable nights of glam and groove. Friday features a double bill: a 4:30 pm Walk of Stars Dedication in downtown Palm Springs, followed by the 10 pm Opening Party at Hideaway Golf Club in La Quinta. She joins the Palm Springs Food & Wine Festival on Saturday at noon, then wraps the week with a soulful A.M. Stream set at Café La Jefa on Sunday, November 16 at 10 am.
To listen to KGAY Palm Springs via Alexa, say “Alexa ENABLE K. Gay Palm Springs SKILL” (include “SKILL”) or manually enable it in the Alexa app or at Amazon. Once enabled, access the station by saying “Alexa, OPEN,” “LAUNCH,” or “PLAY K. Gay Palm Springs.” You can also make special requests, such as birthday shoutouts or song dedications! Happy streaming! Learn more
103.1 MeTV FM
103.1 MeTV FM plays a Timeless and Memorable variety of the ’60s, ’70s, and ’80s with a touch of the ’50s! Rise and Shine weekday mornings with a Timeless and Memorable variety of songs you know and love, and get your weather from Jerry Steffen at NBC Palm Springs. Listen in your car, at work, at home or around the world, online at 1031metvfm.com or tell Alexa, “Open 103.1 MeTV FM.”
WIN TICKETS to Classic Elton
103.1 MeTV FM wants you to WIN TICKETS to Classic Elton, a dazzling tribute concert presented by The Desert Symphony on Thursday, November 20 at 7:30 pm at The Show at Agua Caliente Casino in Rancho Mirage. Featuring Andrew Johns in full Rocket Man glory—complete with iconic costumes, soaring vocals, and a full band—this electrifying journey through Elton John’s career promises a night of music, humor, and high-energy performance. Enter to WIN on the 103.1 MeTV FM Contest Page
- Jeremy Novy’s Queer Street Art Exhibit Amplifies Global Resistance at Palm Springs Pride
- Peter Daut Finds Love and Pride in Palm Springs
- 10 LGBTQ-Friendly Hotels in Palm Springs: Skylark, Ace, Kimpton Rowan, Riviera, and More
- Midcentury Church Becomes Dezart Playhouse in Palm Springs
- Acrisure Arena Becomes Unlikely Desert Hub for Major Concert Tours and Rehearsals
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 iHeart Radio with Alexa or Siri by saying “Play K-GAY 106 5 .” 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.