It is said that on the opening night of The Plaza Theatre on Dec. 12, 1936, Greta Garbo snuck into the theatre unnoticed to watch audience reaction to the premier of her film, Camille.
That’s a far cry from the weekend’s preview of the storied theatre’s renovation when celebs walked among us at Saturday’s Community Open House.
Lance Bass and newly-crowned Walk of Stars honoree Jonathan Bennett were spotted along with others who have no problem being seen in public. Most of those in the public eye regularly show their faces in Palm Springs — and for the most part are left alone.
I remember seeing Barry Manilow and Suzanne Somers dine regularly at El Mirasol. The Rat Pack used to hang out at Club Trinidad, now Purple Room, in the 50s. And of course, many adult filmmakers are a regular fixtures at bars, gyms and restaurants in the area. But that’s a different story…
One star we will miss seeing is Udo Kier, whose portrait hangs above the bar at The Evening Citizen speakeasy on Arenas Road. The openly gay actor lived in Palm Springs and was visible throughout his residency. Kier, 81, died on Sunday morning, according to his partner, artist Delbert McBride.
Kier, a German actor, became a cult icon known for his extensive work and collaborations with figures like Andy Warhol, Lars von Trier, and Madonna.
Following his success with Warhol, Kier spent the next two decades working in Europe. His introduction to American audiences came in 1991 in Gus Van Sant’s drama “My Own Private Idaho,” which also starred River Phoenix and Keanu Reeves.
The 1990s saw Kier take on supporting roles in major Hollywood productions like “Ace Ventura: Pet Detective,” “Armageddon,” and “Blade.” He also collaborated with Madonna, appearing in her book Sex and her music videos for “Erotica” and “Deeper and Deeper.”
The opening night of The Plaza Theatre starring Cynthia Erivo will certainly be star-studded. In today’s social media-driven world, it’s doubtful any celeb would want to lurk in the shadows and not be noticed. We’ll miss those who have left us like Kier and Sommers. But in our hamlet, there are plenty waiting in the wings for their time in the spotlight.
Brad Fuhr, your K-Gay Desert Guide
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KGAY Sweeps Best of Coachella Valley Readers’ Poll
KGAY 106.5/92.1 extends heartfelt thanks to the readers of the Coachella Valley Independent for their support in the annual “Best of Coachella Valley” poll! We are honored to be named Best Radio Station, a reflection of the trust and enthusiasm our listeners place in us. We are equally proud of our hosts whose community connection was recognized: John Taylor (1st Place, Best Local Radio Personality) and Modgirl (1st Place, Best Local DJ). We also celebrate Patrick Evans (2nd Place, Best Local Radio Personality), Chris Shebel (3rd Place, Best Local Radio Personality), 103.1 MeTV FM (3rd Place, Best Radio Station), DJ Galaxy (2nd Place, Best Local DJ), and DJ Eric Ornelas (3rd Place, Best Local DJ). Your continued support inspires us to serve the valley every day! See the complete list of Best of Coachella Valley Winners
MON: Re-Dedication of Memorials
Join the City of Palm Springs for a historic re-dedication ceremony honoring LGBTQ+ civil rights pioneer Morris Kight and the brave LGBTQ+ veterans who served with pride. Taking place Monday, November 24 at 10 am at Francis Stevens Park (also the site of the new LGBTQ+ Pride Monument), the event marks the relocation of two culturally significant memorials—originally placed in Sunrise Park in 2002—to a more visible and well-maintained site. Speakers include Mayor Ron deHarte, Tom Swann Hernandez of Veterans for Peace, and leaders from the Arts and Parks departments. This moving tribute formally welcomes the memorials into the Palm Springs Public Art Collection.
STARTS TUE: Wildlights at The Living Desert
WildLights returns to The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens on select nights from Tuesday, November 25 through Monday, December 30, from 6–9 pm. This dazzling holiday tradition features more than three million lights, immersive displays like the Tunnel of Lights, and a glowing African Safari walk. Guests can enjoy festive treats, s’mores, and a full bar while exploring the zoo after dark. With limited capacity each night, advanced reservations are recommended for this magical desert experience. Get tickets
TUE–SUN: Shucked
The McCallum Theatre presents Shucked, the Tony Award–winning musical comedy running Tuesday–Sunday, November 25–30. With a book by Robert Horn, music by Brandy Clark and Shane McAnally, and direction by Jack O’Brien, this laugh-out-loud production delivers heartland humor and Broadway brilliance. Called “flat out hilarious” by The Wall Street Journal, Shucked offers a fresh twist on musical theater that’s as clever as it is catchy. Get tickets
DJ Galaxy’s Free Holiday Meals
DJ Galaxy’s Annual Holiday Meal Distribution returns with free, anonymous meal deliveries on Wednesday, November 26 and Wednesday, December 24 throughout the greater Palm Springs area. To request meals for yourself, your family, or others in your household, email DJGalaxyProductions@gmail.com or call/text (909) 953-6115. No name or phone number is required, but including delivery details helps coordinate timing. Supplies are limited, so early requests are encouraged.
WED: The Center’s Gay Men’s Social
Make meaningful connections at The Center Social on Wednesday, November 26 from 5:30–7 pm at The Social Cafe and Play Lounge. Held every fourth Wednesday of the month, this free mixer offers a welcoming space to unwind, meet new friends, and enjoy a delicious happy hour in good company. More info
THU: Thanksgiving at The Purple Room
Celebrate Thanksgiving in timeless style at The Purple Room Supper Club on Thursday, November 27 at 6:30 pm with a three-course holiday dinner and live jazz. Guests will enjoy a classic menu featuring roasted turkey, Duroc pork chop, Scottish salmon, braised short ribs, and butternut risotto—all set to the seasonal sounds of the Pam Phillips Jazz Quartet. Surrounded by the vintage glamour of the Rat Pack era, this festive evening blends fine dining, live music, and old-school elegance. RSVP today
THU: Thanksgiving at the Tramway
Celebrate Thanksgiving at the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway with stunning mountain views and festive dining. From Thursday, November 27–Sunday, November 30, special holiday hours run with the first tram up at 8 am, the last tram up at 8 pm, and the last tram down at 9:30 pm. On Thanksgiving Day, Ride ‘n’ Dine tickets at Pines Café feature holiday meals of turkey, ham, or vegetarian lasagna with sides and pumpkin pie. Peaks Restaurant offers an elevated menu beginning at 11 am, including turkey breast, salmon, or filet mignon with seasonal accompaniments and desserts. Reservations are recommended for Peaks. Full menus are available at www.pstramway.com/dining/.
OPENS FRI: Annie
Palm Canyon Theatre presents Annie, opening Friday, November 28 and running through Sunday, December 21. This heartwarming musical follows the spirited orphan Annie and her dog Sandy as they search for family and hope. With beloved songs like “Tomorrow” and “It’s the Hard Knock Life,” the production offers a joyful theatrical experience for audiences of all ages this holiday season. Get tickets
FRI–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–SUN: Desert Art Festival at The River
The Desert Art Festival comes to The River at Rancho Mirage this Friday–Sunday, November 28–30 with a vibrant showcase of fine art from hundreds of West Coast artists, daily from 10 am–4 pm. Visitors can explore original works in acrylic, oils, mixed media, photography, and more—spanning styles from contemporary to southwest. This open-air event offers a dynamic opportunity to discover one-of-a-kind pieces for personal or professional collections. More info
FRI: Fall of Freedom – Anne Bedrick
On Friday, November 28, Anne Bedrick Fine Art in Cathedral City joins the nationwide Fall of Freedom movement with a powerful solo exhibition by Anne Bedrick, open from 11 am–7 pm. Featuring four new large-scale abstracted figurative paintings, Bedrick’s work explores the emotional terrain of womanhood in a time of rising authoritarianism. More info
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, 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
ALSO THIS WEEK
Monday, November 24
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 26
Hot Spot Bingo with Deven & Ned | 7–8:30 pm at Agua Caliente Cathedral City
Thursday, November 27
VillageFest Street Fair | 6–10 pm in Downtown Palm Springs
Carousel Live Retro Music | 7–8:30 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs
Friday, November 28
Drag Bingo/Trivia Nights (alternating) | 4:30–7 pm at Arrive Hotel
Food Truck Fridays | 5–10 pm in Downtown Indio
42nd Annual Cabazon Indio Powwow | Fri.–Sun. at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino
Miss Conception’s Happy Holigays | 6–9:30 pm at The Purple Room
Saturday, November 29
🏒 CV Firebirds vs. Texas Stars | 6 pm at Acrisure Arena
Miss Conception’s Happy Holigays | 6–9:30 pm at The Purple Room
Dance Ranch: Beginner Waltz with Alicia Hennick | 7 pm at Step by Step
Sunday, November 30
A.M. Stream with Modgirl | 10 am–1 pm at Café la Jefa
Judy’s Old-Fashioned Christmas (SOLD OUT) | 5–8:30 pm at The Purple Room
Ongoing…
Magic of Lights | through Dec 31 at Empire Polo Club
Mid-Century Magic | through Dec 16 at Rubine Red Gallery
Alpine Zoo Wildlights | Wed–Sundays through Jan 4 at Big Bear Alpine Zoo
Get our Latest Visitor Map & Guide – FREE!
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!
Ask a Gay Doc Episode 29: The Return of Mpox
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 29, John and Dr. Corzano are joined by Dr Phyllis Ritchie of healthyPStest.org to talk about the recent outbreak of MPOX and how you can keep yourself safe.
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.
THIS WEEKEND
Art in the Park in the Dark
Now in its third year, Art in the Park in the Dark returns to Demuth Park on Saturday, November 29 from 5–9 pm with a free, glow-forward celebration of creativity. Founded by comedian Shann Carr, this inclusive event transforms the park into a radiant playground of lasers, light installations, music, and hands-on art experiences. Families, friends, and curious creatives are invited to explore the magic of nighttime art in a welcoming, community-driven atmosphere. More info
World AIDS Day events
Join the Mizell Center for a powerful three-day tribute in honor of World AIDS Day, running Saturday–Monday, November 29–December 1. Events include the AIDS Quilt Display, receptions, and the 4th Annual Timothy Ray Brown Community Cure Symposium featuring research panels and art-driven storytelling. This gathering offers reflection, education, and community connection in support of a cure. More info
Coachella Valley Holiday Singalong
Raise your voice and your holiday spirit at the Coachella Valley Holiday Singalong on Saturday, November 29 from 2–4 pm at St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church in Palm Desert. Inspired by the beloved Disney Concert Hall tradition, this festive afternoon invites families to sing along to seasonal favorites like “Feliz Navidad,” “Rudolph,” and “White Christmas,” accompanied by the majestic Great Quimby Organ. Hosted by beloved actress Joyce Bulifant of The Mary Tyler Moore Show, the event also features hot chocolate, cider, and ornament-making fun after the concert. Get tickets
What A Feeling – Movie Hits of the ’80s
Get ready to flash back in style—on Saturday, November 29 at 6 pm, the Palm Springs Cultural Center presents What A Feeling, a high-energy tribute to the Oscar-winning movie hits of the 1980s. Hosted by Craig Ramsay and Catherine Wreford, this live fundraiser features standout local performers, retro cocktails, and a photo booth to capture your best ’80s glam. From Flashdance to Footloose, it’s a night of sequins, neon, and nonstop nostalgia. Get tickets
Matteo Bocelli
International recording artist Matteo Bocelli brings his Falling in Love World Tour to The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa on Saturday, November 29 from 8–10 pm. Known for blending timeless elegance with modern romanticism, Matteo’s one-night-only performance promises heartfelt lyrics, soaring vocals, and a sound shaped by generations of musical tradition. Get tickets
Timothy Ray Brown Community Cure Symposium
Experience a transformative day of education, art, and community at the Timothy Ray Brown Community Cure Symposium & 2025 Video by Visual AIDS on Sunday, November 30 from 10 am–2 pm at the Mizell Center. This free, four-part gathering offers expert-led discussions on HIV cure research, a welcoming community reception, and the premiere of Meet Us Where We’re At — six powerful short films that illuminate harm reduction and the lived experiences of drug users. Celebrate creativity, advocacy, and the ongoing pursuit of healing and justice. RSVP today
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!
- Head Over Heels feat. songs by The Go-Go’s
Nov. 7–30 at Desert Theatreworks - Annie, presented by Palm Canyon Theatre
Nov 28–Dec 21 - Coachella Valley Holiday Singalong
Sat. Nov 29 from 2–4 pm at St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church - Premium Bourbon Tasting
Mon. Dec 1 from 6–8 pm at The Purple Room Supper Club - Palm Springs Annual State of the City
Tue. Dec 2 from 2–5:30 pm at the Palm Springs Convention Center - Rock the Park: The Springsteen Experience
Wed. Dec 3 at 7 pm at Downtown Palm Springs Park - Dear Evan Hansen, presented by CVRep
Dec 3–21 - Palm Springs Tree Lighting Ceremony
Fri. Dec 5 at 5:15 pm - Coachella Valley Heart & Stroke Walk
Sat. Dec 6 at 8 am at Palm Desert Civic Center Park - 33rd Annual Indio International Tamale Festival
Sat. & Sun. Dec 6 & 7 from 10 am–7 pm at Miles Avenue Park - Paws & Claus at Rio Del Sol
Sat. Dec 6 from 11 am–2 pm - Contour Dermatology Day of Beauty
Sat. Dec 6 at Contour Dermatology in Rancho Mirage - Palm Springs Festival of Lights Parade
Sat. Dec 6 at 5:45 pm in Downtown Palm Springs - David Bowie Tribute: David Brighton’s Space Oddity Concert
Sat. Dec 6 at 7:30 pm at The Riviera Resort & Spa - Men of the Desert Fashion Show and Luncheon
Sun. Dec 7 from 11 am–2 pm at the Palm Springs Air Museum - A Gay Night of Christmas Melodies featuring A Cabbello
Sun. Dec 7 at 7 pm at Desert Oasis Chapel - Texas Tenors Christmas Concert with The Desert Symphony
Wed. Dec 10 at 7:30 pm at The Show - Tail-A-Thon for the Palm Springs Animal Shelter
Thu. Dec 11 from 4–7 pm on NBC Palm Springs - Thank Yule for Being a Friend, The Golden Girls Musical
Thu. Dec 11 at 7:30 pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center - An Intimate Evening of Music with Brian Justin Crum
Fri. & Sat. Dec 12 & 13 at 7 pm at Palm Springs Cultural Center - Modern Men Presents “Cool Yule”
Sat. Dec 13 at 7 pm and Sun. Dec 14 at 3 pm at the Plaza Theatre - Barry Manilow’s A Gift of Love VII
Tue.–Sun. Dec 16–21 - 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 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
Catch Modgirl spinning her A.M. Stream at Café La Jefa on Sunday, November 30 at 10 am!
Win Tickets to the Coachella Valley Firebirds
KGAY 106.5 and 92.1 is turning up the heat with a chance to WIN A PAIR OF TICKETS to see the Coachella Valley Firebirds take on the Texas Stars on Saturday, November 29 at 6 pm at Acrisure Arena. Don’t miss this high-energy matchup on home ice—enter now for your shot at free seats! Winners will be drawn and notified Wednesday afternoon. Enter to WIN on the KGAY Contest Page
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
‘Tis the Season! 103.1 MeTV FM brings you all of your Timeless & Memorable Christmas favorites! Bing Crosby, Mariah Carey, Elvis, Wham, Brenda Lee & more! Listen when you’re out shopping, wrapping presents, baking cookies, prepping holiday meals or spending time with your family! Patrick Evans will keep you company every weekday 10 am–3 pm with his News Channel 3 First Alert Weather forecast and play great holiday songs you can sing along with! Brought to you by Palm Springs Ace Hardware, Palm Springs Holidays, Fantasy Springs Resort Casino, Stuft Pizza, Skylark Bar, Home Instead Home Care Services, HR Simplistic & Insurance Simplistic and Contour Dermatology. Listen in your car, at work, at home or around the world, online at 1031metvfm.com or tell Alexa, “Open 103.1 MeTV FM.”
- Palm Springs AIDS Memorial Adopts Aluminum for Safety and Reflection
- Middle-Age Mayhem and Heart: DET’s ‘The Roommate’ Delivers Laughs and Layers
- Plan Ahead: PSP’s Thanksgiving Travel Tips, Parking, and Peak Days
- Explore Pioneertown Mountains Preserve: Chaparrosa Peak, Indian Loop, and Olsen Ruins
- Thanksgiving Weekend in Palm Springs: Shopping, Hiking, Art & Family Fun
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.