Gay Desert Guide Weekend Oct 17-19 2025
Brad Fuhr

Over the last 12+ years, our website has evolved. But in looking back at our initial design, it’s function hasn’t changed much. Today when you click on the website, you’ll see a new design and some definite improvements.

I’m no designer, but I know what looks good. And this site is beautiful, helping you discover what’s happening in #ILoveGayPalmSprings. And just in time…

There will be around 700 members of the IGLTA — International LGBTQ Travel Association — in Greater Palm Springs for their convention this week. Wer’e a member and proud to be sponsoring the conference because it allows us to showcase our great destination.

This isn’t just any conference. Those who are touring our attractions, eating at our restaurants and staying at our clothing-optional resorts spend their lives in the travel industry. So we’ve been spiffing up the place in anticipation of this group’s visit.

I had the pleasure of getting together with some of our fellow worldwide media friends last evening at Alice B. They’re already tooling around town getting first hand impressions of our wonderful Coachella Valley. Over the coming months and years, you’ll see social media, blogs, print articles and hear podcasts and stories all coming from the IGLTA conference.

So put your best hospitality foot forward this week when you see IGLTA badges around town.

P.S. Help us celebrate our new website at the Center Social Wednesday. Details below.

Brad Fuhr, your K-Gay Desert Guide

For the latest, follow our socials @GayDesertGuide and @KGAY1065 and listen to KGAY Palm Springs wherever you reside!
#ILoveGayPalmSprings #ILoveGayCatCity #ILoveGayTravel #ILoveGay #SayKGAY #FindYourOasis #SupportYourStation #IGLTA2025 #VisitGPS #LGBTQTravel

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Best of Desert: Nominate Daily Until Wednesday!

Best of Desert Communitys Choice Awards Desert Sun

The Desert Sun’s Best of Desert Community’s Choice Awards Nomination Round runs now through Wednesday, October 22. This is your chance to show love for local favorites in the “Entertainment & Leisure” category—consider nominating DJ Galaxy, DJ Eric Ornelas, and Modgirl for DJ Event/Wedding; John Taylor, Patrick Evans, and Chris Shebel for Radio Personality/Show; and KGAY 106.5/92.1 and 103.1 MeTV FM for Radio Station – Local. Submit nominations daily and if you nominate in 25 or more categories, you’ll be entered to win a $250 gift card. Let’s celebrate the voices, beats, and stations that keep the desert dancing! Nominate here


POSTPONED: Palm Springs Pride Equality Walk

Equality Walk 2025 Postponed

The inaugural Pride Equality Walk, originally scheduled for this Saturday, October 25, has been postponed. Organizers made this decision to ensure the event fully reflects its mission: a unified stand for LGBTQ+ visibility, rights, and equality. Due to unforeseen financial and logistical challenges, the team is taking time to restructure and build a stronger foundation for a successful launch in 2026. All current registrations will automatically carry over, and a new date will be announced soon.


MON: Speed Networking with the DBA

DBA

The Desert Business Association (DBA) invites members to a high-energy evening of connection at Speed Networking on Monday, October 20 from 5–7:30 pm at the Coachella Valley Economic Partnership. This structured format ensures everyone meets one-on-one, shares their business, and builds meaningful connections in rapid-fire rounds. Attendees will also receive tips to sharpen their networking skills and have time to reconnect with potential collaborators before the evening wraps. Members only (but you can join prior). More info


TUE–SAT: IGLTA National Convention

IGLTA Logo 2025

Palm Springs will host the 2025 International LGBTQ+ Travel Association (IGLTA) Global Convention from Tuesday–Saturday, October 21–25, bringing up to 2,000 travel industry professionals from more than 40 countries to the Palm Springs Convention Center. Since 1983, IGLTA has been a leading force in shaping inclusive tourism worldwide, and this high-profile gathering marks a significant moment for the Coachella Valley. The convention offers a platform for sharing best practices, building global partnerships, and advancing LGBTQ+ representation in travel. Its presence in Palm Springs underscores our region’s role as a welcoming destination and a hub for innovation in hospitality. More info


WED: The Center Social

Center Social October

The Center Social returns for its October installment on Wednesday, October 22 from 5:30–7 pm at the Renaissance Palm Springs Hotel. Held every fourth Wednesday of the month by The LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert, this lively gathering offers LGBTQ+ community members and allies a chance to connect over conversation, friendship, and a flavorful happy hour. KGAY Desert Guide is the proud media sponsor of this month’s social! More info


THU: Wet & Wild Party Benefiting Police & Fire

Desert Hand

Get ready to soak up the fun at Wet & Wild, a high-energy fundraiser benefiting our local Police and Fire Associations. Join the celebration on Thursday, October 23 from 5–7 pm at Desert Hand Car Wash. Come raise a glass—and some suds—for a great cause. PLUS: 50% of every Car Wash on Thursday & Friday, Oct 23 & 24 will be donated to both organizations! What’s more: KGAY’s Morning Show with John Taylor will be Out and About at the Car Wash on Friday, October 24 from 10 am–Noon! More info


THU: IGLTA Voyage: The Velvet Palm

IGLTA Voyage Velvet Palm 2025

The Velvet Palm invites guests to an unforgettable evening of mid-century glamour on Thursday, October 23 from 6:30–9 pm at the iconic Dinah Shore Estate. This signature fundraiser for the IGLTA Foundation blends 1960s pop art flair, Hollywood elegance, and immersive surprises in support of inclusive global travel. Set against the estate’s lush grounds and cinematic mountain views, the event celebrates bold expression and vintage style in true Palm Springs fashion. Get tickets


FRI: Arenas District Flag Raising Block Party

Flag Raising Block Party

The Arenas District comes alive with pride and purpose at the Flag Raising Block Party on Friday, October 24 from 5–10 pm. This free celebration features live music, drag performances, rally moments, and the historic first raising of the iconic Pride flag. All are welcome to join the festivities and show up for equality. More info


FRI: Revivals After Dark

Revivals After Dark 2025

Revivals After Dark returns Friday, October 24 from 6–7:30 pm at Revivals Palm Springs “Back Alley” with drag icon and DJ Honey Davenport spinning a high-voltage set that fuels both fun and fundraising. This adults-only pop-up transforms the back alley into a vibrant bazaar of pre-loved treasures, leatherwear, erotica, and community connection—all benefiting DAP Health and Palm Springs Leather Order of the Desert. More info


OPENS FRI: Priscilla, Queen of the Desert

Priscilla PCT 2025

Palm Canyon Theatre rolls out the glittery road trip adventure with Priscilla Queen of the Desert, running October 24–November 16. This high-energy musical follows three drag queens across the Australian outback, packed with dazzling costumes, iconic pop anthems, and a heartfelt celebration of identity, friendship, and fabulousness. Get tickets


FRI–SUN: The Addams Family Musical

The Addams Family Musical @ Rancho Mirage Amphitheatre

Get ready for a delightfully ghoulish weekend as The Addams Family Musical takes over Rancho Mirage Amphitheater, Friday–Sunday, October 24–26. Presented by Desert Theatricals and the City of Rancho Mirage, this lively production features a live orchestra and a cast of local stage favorites. With Wednesday Addams in love and Gomez caught in a secret, expect hilarity, heart, and spooky charm in this all-ages musical comedy. Get tickets


FRI/SAT: 10th Annual Night Sky Festival

10 Years Night Sky Festival

The Night Sky Festival returns Friday and Saturday, October 24–25, celebrating the awe-inspiring skies of Joshua Tree National Park with a weekend of stargazing, science, and creativity. This annual fundraiser for Sky’s The Limit Observatory and the Joshua Tree National Park Association features telescope clinics, gold panning, solar crafts, astronomy lectures from NASA scientists, and a spectacular Saturday night star party with live music and constellation tours. All tickets must be purchased in advance: Get tickets


THU-SUN: NoirCon 2025

NoirCon 2025

NoirCon offers four days of shadowy intrigue, cinematic grit, and literary depth from Thursday–Sunday, October 23–26. This year’s theme, “Novel Journeys,” brings seven riveting films to the big screen, each adapted from classic noir novels. Featured titles include Detour, In a Lonely Place, The Talented Mr. Ripley, Lost Highway, Suddenly, Gideon’s Day, and Blitz. Each screening is paired with guest-hosted insights and behind-the-scenes stories. Beyond the films, NoirCon offers panels, award presentations, and a keynote on adaptation by Kristen Lopez, making this a must-attend for noir lovers and newcomers alike. Get tickets


THU-SUN: The Inheritance – Part 2

The inheritance pt2

The Bent Theatre Company presents The Inheritance – Part 2 at the Palm Springs Cultural Center/Camelot Theatre, running Friday, October 17–Sunday, November 2. Inspired by E.M. Forster’s Howards End, this sweeping drama explores three generations of gay men as they navigate survival, identity, and the meaning of home. Whether or not you saw Part One, audiences will be seamlessly caught up before diving into this emotional journey of connection, reckoning, and renewal. Adult content; nudity included. Get tickets


THU-SUN: The Cottage

The Cottage

Broadway’s killer comedy The Cottage runs through Sunday, November 2. Set in the 1920s, this stylish and scandalous romp follows one woman’s daring decision to expose her affair—unleashing a whirlwind of secrets, betrayal, and absurd hilarity. With razor-sharp dialogue and unexpected twists, the production offers a wickedly funny take on love, marriage, and the messiness in between. Get tickets


Take the LGBTQ+ Quality of Life Survey

Quality of Life Survey The Center

The LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert invites Coachella Valley residents to take part in its new LGBTQ+ Quality of Life Survey, designed to gather insights that will shape future programs, services, and advocacy efforts. By sharing lived experiences, participants help strengthen community support and ensure that local voices are heard and valued. Please take the 30-minute survey by October 31.


Visitor Map & Guide Pride 2025 Crop 2

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!


Vote by Sunday for Best of Coachella Valley!

Best of Coachella Valley 2025-2026 Logo

CV Independent’s Best of Coachella Valley 2025–2026 has opened their Final Round BallotThank you for the incredible support and strong showing in this year’s nominations—now’s the time to vote and help spotlight your favorites to win! Our contenders include: KGAY 106.5 & 92.1 and 103.1 MeTV FM in Life in the Valley > Best Radio Station, John Taylor, Patrick Evans, and Chris Shebel in Life in the Valley > Best Local Radio Personality, and our dynamic DJ trio—DJ Galaxy, DJ Eric Ornelas, and Modgirl—in Arts > Best Local DJ. Nominations will be accepted through Sunday, October 19. Cast your vote today!


ALSO THIS WEEK

Monday, October 20
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, October 22
Hot Spot Bingo with Deven & Ned | 7–8:30 pm at Agua Caliente Cathedral City

Thursday, October 23
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, October 24
Drag Bingo/Trivia Nights (alternating) | 4:30–7 pm at Arrive Hotel
Food Truck Fridays | 5–10 pm in Downtown Indio
Anthony Nunziata | 6–9:30 pm at The Purple Room Supper Club

Saturday, October 25
Solar Sessions at Royal Sun Palm Springs | 12–6 pm
Anthony Nunziata | 6–9:30 pm at The Purple Room Supper Club

Sunday, October 26
61st Annual Golf Cart Parade | 8 am–2 pm on El Paseo
Celebrate Día de los Muertos with Palm Springs Art Museum
| 10 am–5 pm
The Judy Show! | 5–8:30 pm at The Purple Room Supper Club


Ask a Gay Doc Episode 28: Allergies and Vaccinations for Fall & Winter

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 28, it’s all about Valley Fever: Allergy flare ups and vaccinations to get for the fall and winter season. Desert Oasis Healthcare’s Dr. Jae Yong Lee joins John and Dr. Corzano to discuss.

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

East Coachella Valley Pride

East Coachella Valley Pride

The 9th Annual East Coachella Valley Pride Festival returns Sunday, October 26 from 3–8 pm at the Coachella Valley Library. This youth-led celebration uplifts LGBTQ+ voices in the Eastern Coachella Valley with performances, art, food vendors, and community resources. The theme of this year’s ECV Pride is “Orgullo floreciendo sin fin” (“Pride blooming without end”). Come for connection, creativity, and pride. More info


Edie: Las Vegas Showgirl Unleashed

Edie Las Vegas Showgirl - Unleashed

On Saturday, October 25 at 7:30 pm, the Palm Springs Cultural Center welcomes Las Vegas drag icon Edie in Las Vegas Showgirl: Unleashed. Fresh off a 13-year run as emcee of Cirque du Soleil’s Zumanity, Edie brings a dazzling, high-energy celebration of her 30-year career to the stage. Expect a whirlwind of song, dance, comedy, and behind-the-scenes stories from ballet to Broadway to Vegas—all served with signature showgirl flair. Get tickets


12th Annual Reel Women’s Film Festival

12th Annual Reel Womens Film Festival Lineup

The 12th Annual Reel Women’s Film Festival returns to the Palm Springs Cultural Center with a dynamic lineup of films spotlighting women’s voices and global perspectives. Taking place Sunday, October 26 at 12:30 pm, the festival spotlights the films The Day Iceland Stood Still, The Seeds of Vandana Shiva, The Walk, Bicycle, and Matighar. Proceeds benefit Planned Parenthood of the Pacific Southwest, supporting inclusive health care, education, and advocacy across the region. Doors open at 12 pm. Get tickets


AutumnFest at the Tram

Tramway Autumnfest

Palm Springs Aerial Tramway will host its inaugural AutumnFest celebration on Saturday, October 25 from 11 am–3 pm. Held at Pines Café atop the tramway, the event features a festive three-course German meal and live polka music by Bavarian Stew. Guests can enjoy bratwurst, sauerkraut, schnitzel, German chocolate cake, and Bavarian pretzels while soaking in the Alpine atmosphere. Specialty beers and traditional attire are encouraged for a full cultural experience. More info


Halloween Chili Car Show

Halloween Chili Car Show 2025

Palm Springs Air Museum fires up the fun with its 16th annual Halloween Chili Car Show on Saturday, October 25 at 10 am. Classic cars and spicy chili come together in this festive celebration, featuring tastings from museum volunteers’ secret recipes starting at 11 am. Costumes are encouraged, and family-friendly vibes abound. Get tickets


61st Annual Golf Cart Parade

Golf Cart Parade 61st Annual

Palm Desert’s most whimsical tradition rolls back into town on Sunday, October 26 for the 61st Annual Golf Cart Parade! Festivities kick off at 8 am with a pancake breakfast, followed by the colorful, community-powered parade at noon along El Paseo. From creatively decked-out carts to local entertainment, this beloved event celebrates the spirit of the Coachella Valley while raising funds for area charities. Lace up your walking shoes and join the fun! 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!


Featured Events
On the Air

KGAY 106.5 & 92.1 FM

CVI Best of Awards 2023

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

This week: Catch Modgirl on Wednesday, October 22 at 8 pm for Wednesday Night Fever at The Red Barn in Palm Desert—where retro vibes meet modern beats. Then on Sunday, October 26 at 10 am, she brings her signature sound to Café La Jefa in Palm Springs for A.M. Stream.


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

KMEE Alexa MeTV 1031 300x250

103.1 MeTV FM plays a Timeless and Memorable variety of the ’60s, ’70s, and ’80s with a touch of the ’50s! Spend your weekdays 10 am–3 pm with 103.1 MeTV FM and Patrick Evans: He’ll keep you up-to-date on what’s going on in the Coachella Valley, the weather, and he’ll play songs you can sing along with all day long! Listen in your car, at work, at home or around the world, online at 1031metvfm.com or tell Alexa, “Open 103.1 MeTV FM.”

Bookmarks
  1. Brad Fuhr on Reviving Local Radio and LGBTQ+ Advocacy in Palm Springs
  2. The Oral History of Modernism Week: From Midcentury Show to Palm Springs Cultural Phenomenon
  3. Affordable Palm Springs Getaway: 2-Day Budget Travel Guide for the Coachella Valley
  4. Hidden Histories: The Stories Behind Sunnylands Center & Gardens’ Iconic Monuments and Art
  5. HRC Palm Springs Garden Party Spotlights LGBTQ+ Leadership and Unity

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.

KGAY 106.5 & 92.1 Palm Springs Radio

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.