Sunny 106.5 took over the former KGAY frequency on New Year’s Day (so much for the U2 lyrics “All is quiet on New Year’s Day!) We moved KGAY to a better signal on our co-owned 103.1 frequency and it boasts an HD signal for better sound quality.
That’s the short answer.
I was very fond of MeTV FM on 103.1, but we weren’t getting adequate advertiser support to make it viable long term. The music on that station reflected the first part of my radio career that has now spanned some 50+ years. Back then I was spinning 45s on a turntable in mono (not stereo) at my hometown radio station.
Sunny 106.5 is playing the music that marked my move away from being a “disc jockey” and into managing radio stations. In the 90s, I ran one of the most successful alternative radio stations in the country at the University of Illinois. We changed the format of WPGU from “Rock 107.1” to “The Planet” marking a trend where music had made a departure from hair bands and stadium shows to the bands and artists you’ll now hear on Sunny 106.5.
E.J. Tyler is our Sunny 106.5 program director and has been a part the “gay radio mafia” that KGAY program director and afternoon host Chris Shebel created decades ago when we couldn’t be “out” at work. He founded a secret society of music and radio industry professionals that would meet up when traveling or at conferences. That’s how I met John Taylor, our KGAY morning host.
It was kinda like “Heated Rivalry” for DJs. We competed against each other, and sometimes things went further… (But not with this group – we were more like “The Golden Girls”.)
Now, we can celebrate who we are proudly on KGAY, and have the privilege of being outspoken advocates for LGBTQ+ rights with our worldwide mouthpiece. Gay Desert Guide provides the platform to share the written word and help showcase our beautiful Coachella Valley. And Sunny 106.5 will find its audience with both the LGTBQ communities and our allies to help keep this enterprise afloat.
As we head into 2026, please show your support by backing the advertisers and community partners who make our work possible.
Brad Fuhr, your K-Gay Desert Guide
For the latest, follow our socials @GayDesertGuide and @KGAYPalmSprings and listen to KGAY Palm Springs wherever you reside!
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Palm Springs International Film Festival
The Palm Springs International Film Festival returns Friday–Sunday, January 2–12, transforming the city into a global showcase for cinema with 169 films from more than 70 countries, including 53 premieres and 44 International Feature Film Oscar submissions. With Opening Night featuring Calle Malaga and Closing Night presenting Glenrothan, the festival offers audiences an extraordinary range of storytelling across multiple venues, including the newly added Plaza Theatre. For those wishing to attend screenings, the festival provides a variety of options, from individual tickets to multi‑film passes, allowing attendees to curate their own experience across the 11‑day schedule. Get tickets
Palm Springs International Film Awards
The Palm Springs International Film Awards brings worldwide attention to our city on Saturday, January 3 at 8 pm, welcoming an extraordinary group of honorees whose achievements defined the year in film. Scheduled to appear are Timothée Chalamet, Rose Byrne, Kate Hudson, Guillermo del Toro, Amanda Seyfried, Ethan Hawke, Chloé Zhao, Leonardo DiCaprio, Michael B. Jordan, Adam Sandler and Joachim Trier with members of their ensembles. Their presence underscores Palm Springs’ role as a global gathering place for artistry, creativity and cinematic excellence! More info
Shaun Cassidy – “The Road to Us”
The Plaza Theatre welcomes audiences for an evening with Shaun Cassidy on Saturday, January 3 at 8 pm. Known for his electrifying rise as a teen idol, Cassidy brings the energy and charm that fueled his multi‑platinum albums and iconic hits including “Da Doo Ron Ron,” “That’s Rock ’n’ Roll,” and “Hey Deanie.” His return to the stage offers fans a rare chance to experience the star power that once filled arenas across the country, now in the intimate setting of a beloved Palm Springs landmark. Get tickets
Broadway Drag Roulette
Vanity Halston’s Broadway Drag Roulette brings high‑energy chaos and show‑stopping talent to one eleven bar on Saturday, January 3 at 9 pm. This fast‑paced night invites the audience to choose the Broadway hits, leaving the queens to dive into everything from Wicked to West Side Story—rehearsed or not. With big vocals, bold comedy and plenty of unpredictable moments, it’s a dazzling, crowd‑powered celebration where anything can happen and the performers always rise to the occasion. More info
A Bright New Dawn on Sunny 106.5
Say hello to Sunny 106.5, the Coachella Valley’s fresh new radio station. Sunny 106.5 is your go-to for feel-good favorites from the ’90s, 2000s, and more—music so bright, you gotta wear shades. From Mariah Carey and Matchbox Twenty to Adele, Coldplay, Katy Perry, Maroon 5, and hundreds of other favorites, it’s the perfect soundtrack for your day. More than just great music, Sunny 106.5 keeps you connected to the community with local updates and weekday weather from Patrick Evans of News Channel 3, plus friendly, familiar voices throughout the day. Sunny 106.5 is bright music and good vibes for Greater Palm Springs! Learn more
KGAY is Now at 103.1
Meanwhile, KGAY Radio rings in the New Year with a major upgrade, moving to a stronger, farther‑reaching signal at 103.1 FM as it enters its eighth year serving Palm Springs, the Coachella Valley and the LGBTQ+ community by expanding coverage and adding an HD digital signal for clearer, more reliable listening. Streaming also continues worldwide at KGAYPalmSprings.com.
Women’s Tea Dance
Celebrate community, connection, and queer joy at the Women’s Tea Dance on Sunday, January 4 from 3–6 pm at the Palm Springs Surf Club. Inspired by the original gay tea dances of the 50s and 60s, this vibrant afternoon gathering offers a welcoming space for women to unwind, dance, and socialize before the week begins. Hosted by The LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert. More info
Palm Springs Vintage Market
The Palm Springs Vintage Market returns on Sunday, January 4 from 7 am–2 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs, offering one of the desert’s most beloved monthly gatherings for retro enthusiasts. Held the first Sunday of the month from October through May, the market brings together friendly, knowledgeable dealers showcasing antiques from multiple eras, upcycled and reclaimed pieces and unique finds that inspire home decor seekers and collectors alike. More info
Holiday Hours at the Tram
Celebrate the season at the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway with special holiday hours through Sunday, January 4, with the first tram up at 8 am and last tram down at 9:30 pm. For a fine‑dining experience, make your reservations at Peaks Restaurant.
Paul Anka
Paul Anka returns to the McCallum Theatre for a three‑performance engagement of All The Hits: His Way Tour, bringing his iconic voice and timeless catalog to the desert. Audiences can experience his legendary showmanship on Friday, January 2 at 8 pm, Saturday, January 3 at 8 pm, and Sunday, January 4 at 3 pm. It’s a rare chance to hear the songs and stories that shaped one of music’s most enduring careers. Get tickets
KGAY Sweeps Best of Coachella Valley Readers’ Poll
KGAY 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), 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! Now KGAY is heard in HD at 103.1 on the dial and online at KGAYPalmSprings.com. Something bright & shiny comes to 106.5 Jan. 1. See the complete list of Best of Coachella Valley Winners
ALSO THIS WEEKEND
Friday, January 2
Drag Bingo/Trivia Nights (alternating) | 4:30–7 pm at Arrive Hotel
Food Truck Fridays | 5–10 pm in Downtown Indio
Saturday, January 3
Dance Ranch: 3RD ANNIVERSARY: Tahoe Kick Line Dance with Andrew Jimenez | 7 pm at Step by Step
Morrissey (SOLD OUT) | 8 pm at The Show
Sunday, January 4
A.M. Stream with Modgirl | 10 am–1 pm at Café la Jefa
Ongoing…
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!
LOOKING AHEAD
MON: DBA New Year Celebration
The Desert Business Association invites the community to ring in the new year at the DBA New Year Celebration on Monday, January 5 from 5:30–8 pm at Boozehounds Palm Springs. This festive gathering brings together LGBTQ and Allied businesses for an evening of connection, collaboration, and renewed energy, featuring delicious Boozehounds bites, live keyboard music, and meaningful networking with local leaders and community members. As the region’s only LGBTQ chamber of commerce, the DBA sets the stage for a year of growth, creativity, and shared success, making this celebration the perfect way to welcome everything 2026 will bring. 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 International Film Festival
Jan 2–13 – Passes on Sale Now - Palm Springs International Film Awards
Sat. Jan 3 – Tickets on Sale Now - The Female Form: Tom Wesselmann & Mickalene Thomas
Dec. 22–Jan. 25 at the Palm Springs Art Museum - Rock the Park: Bee Gees Forever
Wed. Jan 7 at Palm Springs Downtown Park - Hair Transplant Consultation Day
Thu. Jan 8 from 9 am–3 pm at Contour Dermatology - Firebirds Pride Night at Acrisure Arena
Sat. Jan 10 from 6–9 pm - A Piece of Thread at the 10-Minute Play Festival
Sat. Jan 10 at 7:30 pm and Sun. Jan 11 at 2 pm at Revolution Stage Company - One Man, Two Guvnors, presented by CVRep
Jan 14–Feb 1 - Melissa Manchester w/The Desert Symphony
Thu. Jan 15 at 7 pm at The Show
KGAY 103.1 FM
The KGAY 103.1 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 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 103.1 online
This Weekend: Modgirl starts the weekend in style on Friday, January 2 at 8 pm as she takes the stage at the Palm Springs International Film Festival Opening Party at the Palm Springs Air Museum. Then catch Modgirl at A.M. Stream at Café La Jefa on Sunday, January 4 at 10 am!
- 10 International Films to See at Palm Springs International Film Festival
- Exploring Beauty, Power, and the Gaze at Palm Springs Art Museum
- Ten New Greater Palm Springs Restaurants Bringing Fresh Flavor and Bold Dining Experiences
- Palm Springs Advances Design Work for New Connected Convention District
- Every Gay TV Show That Defined 2025: Renewals, Cancellations, and Cultural Impact
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 2026 Coachella Valley Calendar of Events.
Listen to KGAY over the air, stream it [here], or listen on iHeart Radio with Alexa or Siri by saying “Play K-G-A-Y” 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.