Gay Desert Guide Weekend: May 1-3, 2026

May Day! May Day! May Day! The international voice radio distress call is used by aviation, maritime and for general emergencies. But it’s also the day when workers across the world fight for their rights for fair pay.

Today, “May Day Strong: Workers Over Billionaires” protests will take place around the USA with at least four scheduled in the Coachella Valley. It’s also known as International Worker’s Day, which started in Chicago in 1886. Then it was a protest demanding an eight hour workday. Today, it’s about income inequality and living wages.

Like the No Kings mobilizations and other mass protests that have drawn millions to the streets since the start of Trump’s second term, there will be a few centralized events in large cities and thousands of smaller ones in communities like ours. There’s a call for not spending money, calling in sick from jobs and skipping school. Unlike weekend “No Kings” rallies, this is meant to happen on a school day and work day.

According to the New York Times, current income inequality in the U.S. has the top 10% of earners controlling 69% of the nation’s wealth, while the bottom 50% holds only about 3%. This gap, along with stagnant wages and rising costs for essentials such as gas and groceries, has “supercharged” May Day protests. It’s about denouncing policies that are viewed as favoring billionaires over the working class.

We see vestiges of that inequality all over the Coachella Valley. The Bob Hope House at 23,366 square foot estate overlooks a mobile home park nestled along Highway 111 just blocks from the Porsche dealership. The Parker Hotel sits just across the street. Homeless encampments crop up along the wash.

Over 93.7% of Coachella Valley Unified School District (CVUSD) students in this district are classified as socioeconomically disadvantaged. Even in Desert Sands Unified School District, the most affluent of our valley’s three districts, 77% of students are considered socioeconomically disadvantaged, which is higher than the California average.

So it’s no wonder that food banks, toy drives and back to school fundraising efforts are prevalent in our valley. I recently attended a “thank you” tour of The Center’s food bank at which CEO Mike Thompson shared stories of the impact that made each week by food donations. It’s a constant struggle to keep those shelved filled as the need increases.

So May Day is a distress call for action today. Families living in their van while parents work multiple jobs is not the America I want to live in. Pick your battles today — an Amazon or fast food boycott, skipping school, attending a protest, or just educating yourself are all ways to participate. Sticking your head in the proverbial sand is not a good look.

Brad Fuhr, your K-Gay Desert Guide

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Sebastian’s Rodeo Disco

Sebastian’s Rodeo Disco sparkles on Friday, May 1 from 9 pm–4 am at Studio 4707. This celebration channels disco energy and rodeo attitude into a high-momentum event with style and freedom. Music is led by John Ceglia, straight from New York’s infamous Studio 54 and SiriusXM, along with KGAY’s own Sunday T-Dance deejay, Modgirl. Move through furnished lounges and expansive patios while returning to a dance floor guided by the spirit of 1977. More info

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Taste of Jalisco Festival

The tenth anniversary of the Taste of Jalisco Festival returns Friday–Sunday, May 1–3 at Cathedral City Civic Center Plaza. This annual celebration honors the thirty-year sister city relationship between Cathedral City and Tequila in the Mexican state of Jalisco. Attendees can explore a sprawling family-friendly carnival along with an artisan craft vendor market. The weekend features gold medal tequila tastings, authentic Mexican cuisine, and community folklórico dance presentations. Daily entertainment highlights include a Lucha Libre wrestling show and live acts at the community amphitheater. More info

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Desert Winds Freedom Band May Concert: From Book to Stage

The season concludes with the Desert Winds Freedom Band’s May concert, From Book to Stage, on Sunday, May 3 from 2–5 pm. Presented at the Jewish Community Center, this symphonic program celebrates musicals inspired by literary works, highlighting how stories move from the page to the theatrical stage. Musicians from across the community come together to perform a varied repertoire shaped by classic and contemporary sources. More info

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High Desert Pride Prom: An Intergenerational Celebration

The High Desert Pride Prom: An Intergenerational Celebration is on Friday, May 1 from 7–11 pm at the Victor Valley College Educational Event Center. The event is a safe space for all generations to celebrate authentically regardless of age or identity. Attendees are encouraged to celebrate prom their own way in a joyous and supportive environment. More info

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Mental Health Awareness Day

The community gathers for Mental Health Awareness Day on Saturday, May 2 from 12–7 pm. Held at the Palm Springs Cultural Center, this event features a full schedule of sessions focused on physical, mental, and spiritual healing. Peter Bedard delivers a keynote talk at 12:30 pm about the importance of holistic health. Panels moderated by Thalia Hayden, Corey Roskin, and Grace Garner discuss mindfulness and spiritual practice. Participants can enjoy a laughter yoga demonstration with Adry Rubino or a conversation about facing the death experience. The day concludes with a relaxing sound bath conducted by Katt Adkins from 6–7 pm. More info

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Palm Springs Hot Rodeo

It’s a full weekend of Palm Springs Hot Rodeo events across multiple venues. Festivities begin Friday, May 1 with Rodeo School from 10 am–2 pm at Dysart Equestrian Park, followed by a pool party at the Velvet Rope from 1–5 pm. The official Grand Entry parade happens on Saturday, May 2 and Sunday, May 3 at 12 pm, with rodeo competitions running 10 am–5 pm both days at Dysart. Saturday night brings “Dancing Under the Stars” at Oscar’s from 7 pm–12 am, and the weekend concludes with the awards ceremony on Sunday at 8 pm at Revolution Stage Company. More info

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SunLit – Men of Color Retreat

The SunLit – Men of Color Retreat takes place all weekend at Casa Oliver Hotel. For nearly twenty years, this unique space (formerly known as Blatino Oasis) has been curated for sex positivity, community building, and healing, specifically for men of color. The retreat includes personal growth activities to address the challenges and barriers that gay, bi, and queer men of color face. Participants will find opportunities for education, reflection, and connection within a clothing optional and sex positive environment. More info

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Sheryl Crow

Sheryl Crow brings her Grammy‑winning artistry to The Show at Agua Caliente on Saturday, May 2 at 8 pm, highlighting the songs and stories that have shaped her remarkable career. Celebrate an artist whose music has defined eras and crossed genres with ease. A fun bit of trivia: before her solo breakthrough, she toured as a backup vocalist for Michael Jackson on his Bad World Tour, performing for stadiums long before she became a headliner herself. More info

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Nic & Desi: Broadway to Hollywood!

Broadway power couple Nicolas Dromard and Desi Davar bring Nic & Desi: Broadway to Hollywood! to The Purple Room Supper Club on Friday–Saturday. The duo presents an evening of dazzling dance and thrilling vocals. They have previously starred on Broadway in iconic productions like Wicked and West Side Story. The show blends beloved Broadway and Hollywood favorites with the pair’s undeniable chemistry. More info

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Elvis – The Early Years with Scot Bruce

Celebrated entertainer Scot Bruce brings his high-energy tribute Elvis: The Early Years with Scot Bruce to the desert on Sunday, May 3. Performing at the Purple Room Supper Club, he showcases an uncanny resemblance to the young King of Rock and Roll. The show focuses on the 1950s era and features his ability to sing, strum a guitar, and swivel his hips. More info

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Open Call Talent Project

Outstanding local performers of all ages showcase their skills in the Open Call Talent Project running Friday–Saturday at the McCallum Theatre. This stunning competition features a variety of acts culminating in a full cast finale that has historically been a sell-out event. Audience members have the unique opportunity to vote for their favorite performer during the shows. The winners are then announced and celebrated during the final performance on Saturday. More info

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Ernest Shackleton Loves Me

Ernest Shackleton Loves Me is a wildly inventive new musical comedy performing Wednesday–Sunday at CV Rep from April 22–May 10. The story follows a sleep-deprived single mom who connects through space and time with the famous polar explorer Ernest Shackleton. Together they overcome the odds in a timeless and very funny musical romance. Our theatre reviewer Stephen Radosh says “the pace never slackens, the surprises keep coming and the performances shine.” Read his full review and Get tickets

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ALSO THIS WEEKEND

• May Day 2026: Workers Over Billionaires
  • Friday from 8:30 am–1:30 pm at The River Shopping Center and other valley locations. Join rallies and marches to flex collective muscle and demand unity through these bold, new, nonviolent, Coachella Valley community protest sidewalk actions.
• The Shag House: Behind the Green Gates
  • Through Sunday at The Shag House. Guests explore a mid-century modern tiki escape through a small-group experience. Owner Brandon and partner Dexter host the walkthrough, which includes cocktails by Bootlegger Tiki.
• The Crucible
  • Through Sunday May 3 at Desert Theatreworks. Tess Phillips stars as Abigail Williams in this suspense-filled bold new staging of the American classic.
• Jazz & Vine at the Grand Hyatt
  • Friday from 7–9:30 pm at Grand Hyatt Indian Wells Resort & Villas. The Hanky Panky Trio, led by Alex Minasian, performs a set under the stars.
• Films in the Gardens: The BFG
  • Friday from 8–10 pm at Sunnylands Center & Gardens. This free outdoor movie series returns with a screening of the film about a girl and a benevolent giant.
• rePLAY: Better Late
  • Friday–Saturday through May 2 at The Plaza Theatre. Directed by Susan Stroman, this sharp comedy about second chances stars Jason Alexander, Lucie Arnaz, Dan Bucatinsky and Richard Kind.
• Dance Ranch / Country Dance Saturdays
  • Saturday from 7–9:30 pm at Step by Step Dance Studio. Dance Ranch Palm Springs invites the community for country western dancing and lessons. This week: Andrew Jimenez teaches an intermediate Latin line dance lesson.
• Generation Idol: The Billy Idol Tribute
  • Saturday at 8 pm at Agave Caliente Terraza. Generation Idol performs a rockin’ tribute to Billy Idol during this free outdoor concert.
• Palm Springs Vintage Market
  • Sunday from 7 am–2 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs. Friendly dealers offer high-quality antiques and upcycled items during the final market of the season.
• Benise – 25 Years of Passion!
  • Sunday at 7:30 pm at The Plaza Theater. Benise, “The Prince of Spanish Guitar,” celebrates 25 years of fiery music and dance.
• Ted Gibson Presents: Convergence 2026
  • Sunday–Monday: Celebrity hairstylists Ted Gibson and Jason Backe host this beauty wellness science summit. Industry professionals and consumers unite through technical education and community experiences.

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ONGOING EVENTS

• FRIDAY • Drag Bingo at Arrive from 4:30–7 pm: Join friends for rounds of bingo and happy hour deals at the Arrive Hotel.
• ALL WEEK • A Queer Arcana: Art, Magic, and Spirit: Intergenerational artists explore how magic, spirituality, and esoteric knowledge shape queer culture at the Palm Springs Art Museum.

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SAY KGAY to Save on 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% storewide at checkout with promo code SAYKGAY – Shop Now

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Spring 2026 Visitor Map & Guide – FREE!

Check out the Spring 2026 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, all curated to make exploring the valley even easier. Look for the latest edition at businesses and newsstands around town, as well as at hotels, visitor centers, and participating sponsors, or view it online.

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LOOKING AHEAD

MON: Blue Zones Project Palm Springs & Convergence Summit: Purpose Workshop

Discover your “why” at the Blue Zones Project Palm Springs & Convergence Summit: Purpose Workshop held on Monday, May 4 from 7–8:30 am. This interactive experience takes place at the Renaissance Palm Springs as part of the inaugural Convergence Beauty Wellness Science Summit. Created by celebrity hairstylists Ted Gibson and Jason Backe, the summit brings together beauty professionals and industry leaders for education and community building. Participants will engage in guided discovery activities and reflection exercises rooted in longevity principles to uncover what inspires them. More info

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PS Tramway Summer Passes Available Now

The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway kicks off summer with its popular Summer Pass, available beginning May 1, offering one of the coolest escapes in the desert—literally. With mountaintop temperatures typically 30–40 degrees lower than the valley floor, passholders can enjoy unlimited Tram rides through August 31, plus discounts at Peaks Restaurant, Pines Café, and on additional admissions, along with free parking. Passes may be purchased online at pstramway.com/tickets or in person at Valley Station.

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• Sebastian’s Rodeo Disco
  Fri. May 1 from 9 pm–4 am
• Taste of Jalisco Festival
  Fri.–Sun. May 1–3 at Cathedral City Civic Center Plaza
• Ernest Shackleton Loves Me – presented by CVRep
  Apr 22–May 10
• Blue Zones Project Palm Springs & Convergence Summit
  Mon. May 4 from 7–8:30 am at Renaissance Palm Springs
• Rock the Park: Listen to the Music (Doobie Brothers Tribute)
  Wed. May 6 at 7 pm at Downtown Palm Springs Park
• The Ritz – presented by Palm Canyon Theatre
  May 8–17
• A Man of No Importance – presented by The BENT
  May 8–24 at the Palm Springs Cultural Center
• “Cathedral City Takes Flight” – State of the City
  Tue. May 12 from 10:30 am–12:30 pm at the Doubletree Golf Resort
• Joshua Tree Music Festival
  May 14–17 at Joshua Tree Lake Campground
• Desert Classical Series Presents The Westminster Chorus
  Sun. May 17 at 3 pm at The Plaza Theatre
• Tidal Wave Party 18: SPACE!
  Jun 18–21 at Hilton Palm Springs
• Gay Wine Weekend – 15th Anniversary Celebration
  July 17–19 in Sonoma Valley

This Way Out, the award‑winning weekly LGBTQ radio program, airs every Sunday at 6:30 a.m. on KGAY 103.1 and is also available on‑demand via our streaming player under Menu>Streams>Podcasts. As the only internationally distributed LGBTQ radio show, it airs on about 200 community stations worldwide and delivers global queer news, reporting, interviews, and cultural features.