Chilling effect was taught to me as a teenage college student studying broadcasting and journalism at Central Michigan University. Back then, it was mostly FCC policy such as aging laws around indecency and the Fairness Doctrine, whereby broadcasters had to provide balanced coverage.
Back then, there were limited media choices — it was a time before CNN, Fox News, the internet and social media. Today, after deregulation, our current administration has an arctic chill over free speech. They’ve filed massive lawsuits against institutions like UCLA, defunded public broadcasting, and terminated those who speak out.
The new chilling effect is also a by-product by those out for revenge after the Charlie Kirk assassination. I’m reading with concern over condemnations, threats and firings due to expressing one’s opinion. It’s caused one family to have to go into hiding. My feeds on social media have been filled with all-Kirk-all-the-time. The rhetoric is turned up to 11.
Sen. Ted Cruz condemned author Stephen King for an X post saying the political commentator previously advocated for the act of throwing stones to kill gay people. King had retracted the post and expressed regret for taking a comment Kirk made on his podcast last year out of context.
That apology wasn’t enough for Ted, who went to town on King calling him a “horrible, evil, twisted liar.” Really??? Now, administration officials and other members of Congress are threatening retribution according to Mother Jones. More than just chilling, it’s the suffocation of public discourse.
Brad Fuhr, your K-Gay Desert Guide
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WED: Business Expo and Taste of Palm Springs
The Business Expo & Taste of Palm Springs returns Wednesday, September 17 from 5–9 pm at Indian Canyons Golf Resort. Attendees can explore over 100 local businesses, sample bites from more than 40 restaurants, and enjoy wine and beer tastings throughout the evening. Live entertainment features Prince Again, the top tribute to Prince; come for a night of networking, flavor, and music in the heart of Palm Springs. Look for the KGAY booth and stop by to say hi! Get tickets
WED: The Center Women’s Social
The Center Women’s Social returns on Wednesday, September 17 from 5:30–7 pm at Willie’s Modern Fare in Rancho Mirage. This monthly gathering invites women from across the community to connect, unwind, and enjoy lively conversation in a welcoming atmosphere. Hosted every third Wednesday, the event offers a relaxed space to build friendships and celebrate community spirit—perfect for newcomers and longtime locals alike. More info
STARTS THU: Cinema Diverse
Cinema Diverse returns to Palm Springs for its eighteenth edition, celebrating LGBTQ+ voices through bold, timely storytelling and cinematic artistry. Running Thursday–Sunday, September 18–21 and Thursday–Sunday, Sept 25–28 at the Palm Springs Cultural Center, this acclaimed film festival showcases a dynamic lineup of features, shorts, and documentaries from around the globe—each amplifying queer perspectives and creative resilience. The festival opens with Beautiful Evening, Beautiful Day, a stirring historical drama from Croatian filmmaker Ivona Juka, set in 1950s Yugoslavia and spotlighting four gay partisans navigating love, repression, and the power of film under a totalitarian regime. The film sets the tone for a weekend of thought-provoking screenings and community connection. Get tickets
STARTS THU: Palm Springs Women’s Jazz Festival
The Palm Springs Women’s Jazz Festival returns Thursday–Saturday, September 18–20 at Hotel Zoso with “Blues at the Woodstock,” a dynamic celebration of pioneering women in blues. Featuring performances by Ruthie Foster, Martha Redbone, Bette Smith, Habaka, and Dr. Gail Jhonson with the Blues All-Stars, the festival honors the legacy and power of female artists who shaped the genre. Alongside concerts, attendees can enjoy exhibitions, film screenings, and community events that spotlight resilience, artistry, and cultural impact. More info
THU: Library Renovation Groundbreaking
The Palm Springs Public Library invites the community to a special Groundbreaking Celebration for its long-awaited Renovation project on Thursday, September 18 from 9:15–10:15 am. Held at the library’s original entrance on the south side of the building, the event will feature remarks from Mayor Ron deHarte, City Councilmembers, and library leadership. Attendees will witness the start of a new chapter in the library’s history, as city officials and supporters gather to honor the role of public libraries in education, connection, and civic pride. More info
FRI: 3rd Annual Fire Gala
Prepare for a memorable evening of laughter and community as California Indian Nations College presents its 3rd Annual Fire Gala: “Going for the Gold.” The fundraising event will take place on Friday, September 19, from 6–8 pm, at the Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa Rancho Mirage. The gala features acclaimed Native Comedian Jim Ruel, known for his sharp wit and cultural insight. Your ticket includes entertainment, dinner, and access to a silent auction, with all proceeds dedicated to supporting higher learning at CINC. Get tickets
FRI: Sleepy Hollow at Sunnylands
Sunnylands’ Films in the Gardens series continues Friday, September 19 from 7:30–9:30 pm with a screening of Tim Burton’s Sleepy Hollow (1999). Guests are invited to bring lawn chairs, blankets, and small picnics for a spooky night beneath the trees. Gates open at 6 pm, and snacks and drinks will be available from the café until 8:30 pm. Presented in partnership with the Palm Springs International Film Festival, this free outdoor event offers a haunting cinematic escape in the gardens. More info
Vote KGAY and Local Favorites for Best of Coachella Valley!
CV Independent’s Best of Coachella Valley 2025–2026 has opened their Final Round Ballot—Thank 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 29. Cast your vote today!
Greater Palm Springs Spa Month
Greater Palm Springs Spa Month continues, delivering a full month of revitalizing wellness offerings at the region’s most iconic resorts and spas. With more than 100 luxurious deals now live, guests can indulge in discounted massages, facials, overnight spa stays, and yoga sessions—all designed to soothe the senses and harness the restorative spirit of the desert. Whether you’re planning a peaceful solo getaway or a rejuvenating retreat with friends, Spa Month invites you to relax and renew. Advance booking is highly encouraged. More info
ALSO THIS WEEK
Monday, September 15
Mizell Kitchen Series: Pasta Rustica | 3–5 pm at Mizell Center
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
Tuesday, September 16
Kiss of the Spider Woman Exclusive Screening + Talkback | 6 pm at PS Art Museum
Wednesday, September 17
Hot Spot Bingo with Deven & Ned | 7–8:30 pm at Agua Caliente Cathedral City
Thursday, September 18
Carousel Live Retro Music | 7–8:30 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs
VillageFest Street Fair | 7–10 pm in Downtown Palm Springs
Friday, September 19
Drag Bingo/Trivia Nights (alternating) | 4:30–7 pm at Arrive Hotel
Food Truck Fridays | 5–10 pm in Downtown Indio
Saturday, September 20
Solar Sessions at Royal Sun Palm Springs | 12–6 pm
Country Dance Saturdays: Beginner Two Step with Rob Ollander-Krane | 7 pm at Step by Step
THIS WEEKEND
Positively Aging Project 10th Annual Conference
HIV+ Aging Research Project Palm Springs presents The Art of Balance – A Blueprint for a Healthy Future on Saturday, September 20 from 10 am–3 pm at the Mizell Center. This in-person wellness event explores strategies for physical, emotional, and nutritional balance through expert-led sessions and community dialogue. KGAY’s own John Taylor will be hosting to tie it all together. Doors open at 9 am for a continental breakfast. Whether living with HIV or simply seeking a healthier path forward, attendees will leave with tools to build a more balanced and resilient life. Register today
Hooch ‘N’ Pooch – Palm Springs Bottle Shop Anniversary Party
Palm Springs Bottle Shop celebrates four spirited years with Hooch ‘N’ Pooch, a lively anniversary bash and fundraiser on Saturday, September 20 from 2–5 pm at Market Market. Guests can sip specialty cocktails, enjoy pop-up bites from Ni Modo and Poppin’ Off Pies, and groove to DJ HiLo Split and a live set by Deven Green and Handsome Ned. Furry friends are welcome—especially those dressed to impress for the pet costume contest. A portion of all sales and donations will support the Palm Springs Animal Shelter’s mission to care for and rehome local pets. More info
Third Eye Blind, Rod Stewart at The Show
The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa features two powerhouse performances this weekend. On Friday, September 19 at 8 pm, Third Eye Blind takes the stage with their signature alt-rock sound and high-voltage hits. Known for their emotionally charged lyrics and infectious hooks, the band continues to captivate audiences with a setlist that spans fan favorites and fresh material. Then on Saturday, September 20 at 8 pm, Sir Rod Stewart brings his legendary voice and dynamic stage presence to Rancho Mirage for a rare live appearance (tickets for Rod Stewart are extremely limited).
Sinatra, Stars & Judy at The Purple Room
The Purple Room Supper Club delivers a dazzling weekend of entertainment starting Friday, September 19 with Sinatra & Me, starring Richard Shelton—widely hailed as the world’s leading dramatic interpreter of Frank Sinatra. On Saturday, September 20, Palm Springs Jump! pays tribute to the stars who shaped the city’s glamorous legacy with high-energy performances and vintage flair. Then on Sunday, September 21, The Judy Show! features Michael Holmes’ riotous impersonations of Judy Garland and her iconic guests, blending outrageous comedy, classic standards, and nonstop camp. Get tickets
HRC Palm Springs Garden Party Kickoff
Come to the 24th HRC Palm Springs Garden Party Kick-Off Happy Hour on Saturday, September 20 from 2–4 pm at The Roost Lounge in Cathedral City. This lively launch event invites guests to connect, learn about the annual fundraiser, and discover ways to get involved—all to the vibrant soundtrack of DJ Disco Boy, setting the stage for an afternoon of community, advocacy, and festive flair. More info
Pickleball After Dark
Glow-in-the-Dark Pickleball comes to Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs on Saturday, September 20 from 7–10 pm. In partnership with Let’s Glo Ball, this neon-fueled event transforms six rooftop courts into a dazzling playground of illuminated action, live beats by DJ Sammy Bananaz, and high-energy fun for all skill levels. With vibrant glow gear, prizes, and food and drink available for purchase, it’s the ultimate downtown party where sport meets spectacle. Reservations required: More info
The Dinner Detective at Palm Springs Surf Club
The Dinner Detective brings its acclaimed murder mystery dinner show to The Palm Springs Surf Club on Saturday, September 20 from 6–9 pm. Enjoy a full buffet dinner while the suspense unfolds around you—no stage, no cheesy costumes, just a thrilling whodunit where anyone could be a suspect. It’s an unforgettable evening of mystery and interactive fun, perfect for date nights, birthdays, or group outings. Get tickets
Smart, Sexy, and Seriously Funny—Marvez Live
On Sunday, September 21 at 5 pm, Monique Marvez takes the stage at the McCallum Theatre for an evening of sharp wit, soulful insight, and fearless comedy. Known for her breakout Showtime special Not Skinny, Not Blonde and appearances in Bad Girls of Comedy and Latin Divas of Comedy, Marvez blends Latin fire with American grit in a style that’s smart, sexy, and self-aware. Get tickets
International Day of Peace Observance & Art Exhibition
Cathedral City Peace Initiative invites the community to a meaningful observance of the International Day of Peace on Sunday, September 21 from 2–4 pm at Cathedral City Public Library. The event features two compelling exhibitions: “A Message from 1945 to the Future,” highlighting the global call for nuclear disarmament, and a collaborative display of children’s artwork from Gaza and Cathedral City. Attendees can also take part in creating peace flags to be displayed at City Hall, symbolizing a shared commitment to unity and understanding. More info
Market Mornings Head Back Outdoors
The Certified Farmers’ Market at the Palm Springs Cultural Center moves back outdoors for the season starting Saturday, September 20 from 8 am–1 pm, with fresh produce, chef demos, artisanal foods, and live music. Visitors can meet local growers and food artisans, enjoy breakfast or lunch from market vendors, and gather cooking inspiration through Market Menu Live demonstrations. The market reflects the Cultural Center’s mission to connect the community through food, creativity, and sustainability.
Get our Free Visitor Map & Guide
Check out our Summer 2025 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!
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!
- Business Expo and Taste of Palm Springs
Wed. Sep 17 from 5–9 pm at Indian Canyons Golf Resort - Cinema Diverse LGBTQ+ Film Festival
Thu.–Sun. Sep 18–21 and 25–28 - Michael Holmes’ Purple Room
Sinatra & Me (9/19), Palm Springs Jump! (9/20), The Judy Show! (9/21) - September at the McCallum Theatre
Monique Marvez Comedy (9/21) - September is Greater Palm Springs Spa Month
Special offers at spas throughout Greater Palm Springs, Sep 1–30 - Positively Aging Project HIV+ 10th Annual Conference
Sat. Sep 20 from 10 am–3 pm at Mizell Center - Hooch ‘N’ Pooch Fundraiser for the Palm Springs Animal Shelter
Sat. Sep 20 from 12–5 pm - Cans ‘N Kibble Pet Food Drive
Fri. Sep 26 from 10 am–3 pm at the Palm Springs Animal Shelter - Pride Under the Pines 2025 – Early Bird Tickets on Sale Now
Sat. Oct 4 in Downtown Idyllwild - One Night Out: Paris
Sat. Oct 4 at the Palm Springs Air Museum - Kool & The Gang
Wed. Oct 8 at 8 pm at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino - Wings of Hope: A Glamorous Journey – Hanson House Fundraiser
Sat. Oct 11 from 6–11 pm at Palm Springs Air Museum - Modernism Week – October
Oct 16–19 – Tickets on Sale Aug 1 - Miss Coco Peru – Fucq This Sh!t
Sat. Oct 18 at 7 pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center - Edie: Las Vegas Showgirl Unleashed
Sat. Oct 25 at the Palm Springs Cultural Center - Palm Springs Leather Pride 2025 – Gods of Leather
Oct 30–Nov 2 at Hotel Zoso, Tool Shed, CCBC, Hunters - The ABC Gala: A Beacon of Courage Shines Bright
Tue. Nov 4 from 5:30–9 pm at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino - Mizell Center Presents Cheyenne Jackson Live in Concert
Wed. Nov 12 at 7 pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center - Dear Evan Hansen, presented by CVRep
Dec 3–21 – Tickets on Sale Now for 2025–2026 Season - 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
KGAY 106.5 and 92.1 is giving listeners a chance to WIN A 4-PACK OF SCREENING PASSES to Cinema Diverse 2025, Palm Springs’ acclaimed LGBTQ+ film festival. Returning this September 18–21 and 25–28 with a powerful lineup of global queer cinema, the festival showcases bold storytelling and authentic voices that reflect the heart of our community. Enter for a chance to win and immerse yourself in powerful films that uplift, provoke thought, and honor the spirit of LGBTQ+ storytelling. Enter to WIN on the KGAY Contest Page
You can WIN TICKETS to Kool & The Gang, courtesy of KGAY 106.5 & 92.1, and experience one of the most iconic funk and soul groups of all time live in concert. Catch them at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino on Friday, October 10 as they bring hits like “Celebration,” “Cherish,” and “Jungle Boogie” to the stage. With over 30 gold and platinum albums and a legacy spanning decades, this Hall of Fame band promises a night of legendary energy. 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
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.”
103.1 MeTV FM is giving you the chance to moonwalk your way into MJ LIVE—the electrifying Michael Jackson tribute show happening Saturday, October 4 at the Spotlight 29 Casino Showroom. From “Billie Jean” to “Smooth Criminal,” this high-energy spectacle recreates the King of Pop’s greatest hits with stunning choreography, dazzling effects, and unmatched stage presence. Enter now to WIN TICKETS and experience the magic of MJ like never before! Enter to win on the 103.1 MeTV FM Contest Page
- Historic Pride Flagpole Project Takes Shape Downtown
- Lisa Middleton Appointed to CalPERS Board by Governor Newsom
- Love in Focus: Gregg Felsen’s Lens on Palm Springs’ Historic Same-Sex Weddings
- Toni Atkins Joins Mariah Hanson for The Dinah’s Most Historic Year Yet
- Desert Stonewall Democrats Endorse Proposition 50 Ahead of November Special Election
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.