Our LGBTQ+ community is ever-changing here in the Coachella Valley. Businesses come and go. Big tent events like The Dinah and White Party — once dominant national forces — fade away.
In their place, new “things” pop up. Nature abhors a vacuum. This website is marking its 13th year of service. When I began Gay Desert Guide, there was the oversized LIVE Magazine, Desert Daily Guide (people still confuse us two, although we are unrelated), and The Bottom Line.
2026 will mark the 40th anniversary of the first Pride celebration in Palm Springs. At our board meeting of the LGBTQ+ History and Archives Project of the Desert this week, I learned that the Desert Business Association had a hand in it. Billed as “Sizzle,” the inaugural Pride celebration consisted of a dinner and a variety show featuring local entertainers. While the festival began in 1986, the first official Pride Parade did not take place until 1992.
In 2026, Halloween on Arenas will turn 30, the same year as the founding of the Golden Rainbow — what we know today as The LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert. Streetbar will celebrate 35 this year. The little-known Arenas Road Time Capsule was buried in front of the famed May-December watering hole in 1996. (I would like to see what’s in that time capsule — although I won’t be around to see its scheduled opening 70 years from now.)
Maybe we should have a new time capsule every few decades to mark the changes in our LGBTQ+ community? With the coming and going of businesses (Palm Springs Fine Men’s Salon closes this week, and plans are in the works for a new gay bar, for example), our ever-changing LGBTQ scene is worth memorializing.
That’s why I serve on the board of the Archives, and am continually fascinated by what I learn about our “gay” history and how to preserve it. But I’m also proud to be a part of what’s in our future and how to shape it.
Brad Fuhr, your K-Gay Desert Guide
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INFO-A-GO-GO 2026
Info-A-Go-Go returns on Saturday, January 31 from 11 am–2 pm at Hotel Zoso, bringing together more than 45 LGBTQ+ groups, clubs, organizations, and nonprofits for an afternoon of connection and community. Hosted by The LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert, this free, high‑energy gathering is designed to help queer and trans residents and allies discover new ways to get involved, build relationships, and strengthen year‑round support networks. John Taylor will be Out and About, broadcasting from the event on KGAY 103.1 from 11 am–2 pm! Also: Stop by the KGAY table to scan a QR code and enter to WIN A PAIR OF TICKETS to Love. Alaska this Sunday at the Plaza Theatre (see below)! With dozens of local partners under one roof, it’s the perfect opportunity to plug into the heart of Palm Springs’ LGBTQ+ community. More info
Love, Alaska: A Valentine’s Day Show
On Sunday, February 1 at 7:30 pm, The Plaza Theatre welcomes Alaska for Love, Alaska, an irresistibly offbeat Valentine‑themed evening of music, storytelling, and her signature otherworldly glamour. Joined by her piano‑playing faerie‑witch accompanist Jeremy, Alaska promises a heart‑soothing, soul‑serenading escape during the year’s most romantically intense season. Guests are encouraged to wear red and surrender to the spell. Attend Info-A-Go-Go on Saturday to enter a special drawing for a pair of tickets by registering through the QR code at the KGAY table! Get tickets
So Madonna
The Desert Hot Springs Downtown Concert Series returns on Saturday, January 31 from 4–8 pm with So Madonna, a high‑energy tribute that brings the Queen of Pop’s biggest hits to Pierson Boulevard. This free, family‑friendly event features an opening act, food and drink vendors, lawn games, and activities for kids — all set against the lively backdrop of Desert Hot Springs City Hall. The fun continues each month with upcoming themed concerts, including a Motown Party on February 28, a ’90s bash on March 28, and a Red Hot Chili Peppers tribute on April 25. More info
ABBA LA
The Gardens on El Paseo Concert Series keeps the momentum going on Saturday, January 31 at 4:30 pm with ABBA LA, bringing the irresistible sparkle and sing‑along joy of ABBA’s greatest hits to the Center Lawn. This lively evening benefits Shay’s Warriors – Life After Cancer, continuing the series’ long tradition of supporting local nonprofits while uniting the community through music. More info
1964: A Tribute to The Beatles
The Plaza Theatre transforms into the height of early Beatlemania with 1964: A Tribute to The Beatles on Saturday, January 31 at 7:30 pm. Hailed by Rolling Stone as the most authentic Beatles tribute on earth, this acclaimed group recreates an early ’60s concert with meticulous detail — from period instruments and vintage suits to pitch‑perfect harmonies and charming onstage banter. It’s a nostalgic, note‑perfect journey through the music that changed the world. Get tickets
Women’s Tea Dance
Celebrate community, connection, and queer joy at the Women’s Tea Dance on Sunday, February 1 from 3–6 pm at the Palm Springs Surf Club. Inspired by the original gay tea dances of the 50s and 60s, this joyous 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
The Art of Science
The Art of Science offers an intimate one‑man performance that blends live music, immersive visuals, and thought‑provoking scientific storytelling. Created by local artist Patrick Olson and refined after a successful Off‑Broadway chapter, the show invites audiences to explore connection, consciousness, and the universe in a uniquely moving way. Complimentary preview performances take place Saturdays from 7:30–8:45 pm and Sundays from 2–3:15 pm. More info
Brad Paisley
Brad Paisley brings his chart‑topping country sound to The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa on Saturday, January 31 at 8 pm, promising a night of powerhouse guitar work, award‑winning songwriting, and fan‑favorite hits. With nearly 25 years of accolades — from GRAMMYs to Grand Ole Opry honors — Paisley’s live performances are known for their energy, heart, and signature storytelling. Get tickets
Global Dance Experience
Compagnie Hervé Koubi brings a breathtaking fusion of contemporary dance, capoeira, and martial arts to the McCallum Theatre on Sunday, February 1 at 3 pm. Sol Invictus unfolds with gravity‑defying movement and powerful imagery, tracing choreographer Hervé Koubi’s French‑Algerian heritage through a collaboration with street dancers from across the Mediterranean. Get tickets
Assassins
Revolution Stage Company presents Assassins, the Tony Award–winning musical by Stephen Sondheim and John Weidman, running January 16–31. This bold and provocative production examines the motivations and mythology surrounding nine figures who attempted to alter American history, blending dark humor, sharp commentary, and unforgettable music. Gay Desert Guide theatre reviewer Stephen Radosh says “Assassins is one of those rare musicals that manages to be unsettling, darkly funny, and unexpectedly moving all at once.” Read his full review and Get tickets
One Man, Two Guvnors
CVRep presents the riotous comedy One Man, Two Guvnors, running through Sunday, February 1. This adaptation of a classic farce follows the endlessly hungry Francis Henshall (Peter Fanone), who takes on two jobs—while desperately trying to keep his bosses from discovering each other. With sharp wit, physical comedy and songs by Grant Olding, this fast‑paced production delivers a joyful tangle of mistaken identities, near‑misses and escalating chaos that keeps audiences laughing from start to finish. Our theatre reviewer Stephen Radosh says “Peter Fanone delivers a performance with enough wattage to light up the entire valley.” Read his full review and Get tickets
Camp Morning Wood
Camp Morning Wood is making its west coast premiere, presented by the new PRISM Theater at The 4707 for a run that continues through Sunday, March 22. Fresh from its Off‑Broadway success, this bold and irreverent musical follows a newly engaged couple who unexpectedly land at a gay nudist camp, setting the stage for cheeky comedy, lively songs and outrageous choreography. Get tickets
Dispersion of Light
Desert Ensemble Theatre unveils the world premiere of Dispersion of Light at the Palm Springs Cultural Center from January 23–February 1. Written by Rich Rubin and directed by Jerome Elliott Moskowitz, this new work offers a vivid, emotionally charged portrait of Georgia O’Keeffe and Alfred Stieglitz, capturing the artistic fire, tension, and creative force that defined their legendary partnership. It’s an evocative, visually rich theatrical experience from the playwright behind Kafka’s Joke. Get tickets
Don McLean
On Friday, January 30 at 8 pm, The Plaza Theatre welcomes Don McLean, the iconic singer‑songwriter whose timeless classic “American Pie” remains a touchstone of American music. With more than five decades of storytelling behind him, McLean brings heartfelt lyrics, warm vocals, and a legacy of folk‑rock artistry to an intimate evening that celebrates a career still resonating across generations. Get tickets
Collective Soul
Collective Soul storms into The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa Rancho Mirage on Friday, January 30 at 8 pm, delivering the southern‑rooted rock sound that has defined their three‑decade career. Fans can expect a powerful set packed with classics like “Shine,” “December,” and “The World I Know,” along with newer favorites that showcase the band’s evolving edge. Get tickets
Six The Musical – Teen Edition
Musical Theatre University brings the international phenomenon SIX to the Helene Galen Performing Arts Center for three performances: Friday and Saturday, January 30 & 31 at 7:30 pm, and Sunday, February 1 at 2 pm. Join the “original real housewives” of Henry VIII as they reclaim their stories in a fierce, funny, pop‑concert musical packed with attitude, wit, and show‑stopping vocals. With a cast of rising young performers delivering all the energy that made SIX a global sensation, this is one of the most entertaining nights you’ll spend in the theatre this year. Get tickets
Ask a Gay Doc Episode 31: Hepatitis B
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 31, John and Dr. Corzano discuss how to “Be Strong Against Hepatitis B!” focusing on treatment and prevention in the LGBTQ+ population.
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.
ALSO THIS WEEKEND
Friday, January 30
Drag Bingo | 4:30–7 pm at Arrive Hotel
Food Truck Fridays | 5–10 pm in Downtown Indio
An Evening with Lillias White (SOLD OUT) | 6–9:30 at The Purple Room
Laughter on the 23rd Floor | Fri, Sat & Sun at 7:30 pm at Desert Theatreworks
Saturday, January 31
Sober & Strong: Fitness, connection, accountability | 8–9 am at Atlas Training Co.
Palm Springs Pinot Noir Festival Grand Tasting | 2–5:30 pm at Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa
An Evening with Lillias White (SOLD OUT) | 6–9:30 at The Purple Room
Dance Ranch: Beginner Shadow with Rob Ollander-Krane | 7 pm at Step by Step
Sunday, February 1
A.M. Stream with Modgirl | 10 am–1 pm at Café la Jefa
The Judy Show! (SOLD OUT) | 5–8:30 pm at The Purple Room
KGAY Wants to Hear From YOU!
As a KGAY 103.1 listener, you already know we’re always hustling to stay ahead of the fast‑moving world of radio and technology. We want to keep delivering the content you love in the ways you actually use, which is why we’re inviting you to take part in our annual tech survey. Tell us how radio fits into your day alongside social media, smartphones, tablets, streaming and the web—everything that keeps you connected to entertainment, news and updates from KGAY and beyond. You might even enjoy taking a moment to reflect on how your own listening habits have evolved as a KGAY fan! Take the survey
A Fresh New Glow on Sunny 106.5 and KGAY is Now at 103.1
Sunny 106.5 is the Coachella Valley’s new home for feel‑good hits from the ’90s, 2000s, and beyond, pairing bright, familiar favorites with local updates and weekday weather from Patrick Evans. At the same time, KGAY has kicked off the New Year on a stronger, farther‑reaching signal at 103.1 FM, expanding its coverage and adding HD digital sound while continuing to stream worldwide.
Score Your Rivalry Merch
Ride the Heated Rivalry wave with a fresh batch of themed T‑shirts now available through the Pride Store. Some designs rep your favorite fictional teams from the show, while others turn up the temperature with bolder, more provocative takes. Pick your style, show your fandom, and save 10% at checkout with promo code SAYKGAY. Shop Now
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!
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!
- Info-A-Go-Go 2026
Sat. Jan 31 from 11 am–2 pm at Hotel Zoso - Dispersion of Light – presented by Desert Ensemble Theatre
Jan 23–Feb 1 - Camp Morning Wood – presented by PRISM Theater
Jan 23–Mar 22 - The Art of Science with Patrick Olson
Sat. at 7:30 pm, Sun. at 2 pm at Studio 1068 - Assassins – presented by Revolution Stage Company
Jan 16–31 - One Man, Two Guvnors, presented by CVRep
Jan 14–Feb 1 - Rock the Park: Bruno & The Hooligans
Wed. Feb 4 at 7 pm at Downtown Park, Palm Springs - National Wear Red Day – Women’s Cardiovascular Disease Awareness
Fri. Feb 6 - Hair – presented by Palm Canyon Theatre
Feb 6–Mar 1 - PS Gay Softball New Player Clinic & Tryouts
Sat. & Sun. Feb 7 & 8 at Demuth Park - The TEN Tenors
Tue.–Sun. Feb 10–15 at The McCallum Theatre - Modernism Week 2026
Feb 12–22 - Palm Springs Modernism Show
Sat. & Sun. Feb 14 & 15 at the Palm Springs Convention Center - Valentine’s Weekend Jazz Dinner
Fri. & Sat. Feb 13 & 14 at The Purple Room Supper Club - The Chase 2026
Sat. Feb 21 from 6–10 pm at the Palm Springs Convention Center - Legends of Pop Festival: Madonna, Prince & Michael Jackson
Sat. Feb 28 at 6 pm at The Show - A Studio 54 Celebration Benefiting McCallum’s Education Programs
Mon. Mar 2 at 4:30 pm at Renaissance Esmeralda Resort - Cathedral City LGBT+ Days
Mar 6–8 at Cathedral City Civic Center Plaza - Solid Gold Soul
Wed. Mar 11 at 7:30 pm at The Plaza Theatre - Fashion Week El Paseo
Fri.–Wed. Mar 13–18 at The Gardens on El Paseo - Palm Desert Food & Wine
Thu.–Sun., Mar 19–22 at The Gardens on El Paseo - Red Dress Dress Red Party
Sat. Mar 21 at 8 pm at the Palm Springs Air Museum
A Queer View provides compassionate, client‑centered therapy in a safe, affirming space for the LGBTQ2+ community and its allies. Founded by psychotherapist Joseph Voors, AQV’s collective of LGBTQ2+‑identified and allied clinicians offers culturally aware, identity‑focused care that honors each person’s story while supporting healing, resilience, and authentic living. Learn more
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 brings her signature spark on Saturday, January 31 for a Poolside Saturday set at Ace Hotel & Swim Club, then turns up the heat that evening at 8 pm for SPECTACULAR at The Red Barn in Palm Desert. She closes things out on Sunday, February 1 at 10 am with a bright, beat‑forward A.M. Stream session at Café La Jefa in Palm Springs.
- Coachella Valley Restaurant News: Date Fest, Greek Fest, New Tapas, Openings, and Closures
- Art Party 2026 Honors Bob Mackie with Glamour, Community, and Palm Springs Style
- Seasonal Modernism Week Architecture Tours Return to Palm Springs
- Coachella Valley Padel Guide: Courts, Lessons, Local Pros, and Rising Demand
- 6 Must‑Try Guided Tours Across Greater Palm Springs
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.