I’ve been on vacation the past week celebrating a friend’s birthday on a cruise. We started in Athens and had a couple of days to tour. Like any good tourist, we booked the most popular historical site: the Parthenon. Traveling around the Greek Isles, there’s a strong pride in their civilization being the birthplace of democracy.
The story of Athenian democracy is a messy and cautionary tale. It wasn’t a steady march toward enlightenment, but a volatile experiment that lasted just under two centuries. As we move toward our 250th, there certainly are some parallels.
Greek democracy rose out of a crisis of inequality, flourished through radical civic participation, and ultimately fell due to the strains of war, populism, and foreign conquest.
Ancient philosophers like Plato and Aristotle actually despised Athenian democracy; they viewed it as “mob rule” (ochlocracy), where the uneducated masses could be easily manipulated by smooth-talking politicians.
And so as I stood on the steps of the Parthenon high atop the acropolis overlooking Greece’s land and seas, I couldn’t help but think about our current political climate. We have some of the same parallels happening in the USA. And I wonder, what will our fate be as a democracy?
The rise and fall of Athens serves as a historical mirror: it proved that regular people are fully capable of governing themselves, but it also warned that democracy is highly vulnerable to populism, polarization, and wartime panic.
Today, the country exists as a parliamentary representative republic with a president who is head of state and a prime minister who is the head of the government. Democracy morphed into this.
We’re on the precipice of authoritarianism while still calling ourselves a democracy. It’s hard to believe that just 50 years ago, I was a young high school graduate with my lifetime ahead of me. The Bicentennial celebration of 1976 was a full on coming together of Americans. We felt unified, and had huge national pride.
It doesn’t feel that way going into 2026’s 4th of July. Time will tell where our democracy lands. History is not on our side for this grand experiment lasting another 250 years.
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!
#ILoveGayPalmSprings #ILoveGayCatCity #ILoveGayTravel #ILoveGay #SayKGAY #FindYourOasis #SupportYourStation #VisitGPS #LGBTQTravel
Marilyn 100
The city transforms into a platinum‑themed jubilee for Marilyn 100 at Downtown Park in Palm Springs on Saturday, May 30, honoring what would have been Marilyn Monroe’s 100th birthday. Festivities run from 3–9 pm, featuring food vendors, beverage lounges, live entertainment, and a 4:30–6 pm Guinness World Record attempt for the largest gathering of Marilyn Monroe look‑alikes. With photographers capturing the moment and evening performances continuing after sunset, this will be a spectacular tribute to an enduring icon. More info
Greater Palm Springs Restaurant Week
Presented by Agua Caliente Casinos, Greater Palm Springs Restaurant Week invites diners to savor the start of summer across the Coachella Valley from Friday, May 29–Sunday, June 7. For ten delicious days, restaurants throughout our nine‑city oasis offer prix fixe menus, exclusive specials, and refreshing seasonal flavors—from poolside bites to sunset dinners with a view. Each reservation made through the official page contributes $1 to FIND Food Bank, adding a charitable touch to this culinary celebration. More info
Villain Arts Palm Springs Tattoo Arts Festival
The Villain Arts Palm Springs Tattoo Arts Festival fills the Palm Springs Convention Center with world‑class tattoo artists, entertainers, vendors, and enthusiasts from Friday–Sunday, May 29–31. This three‑day exploration of tattoo culture features opportunities to get inked, browse unique merchandise, and experience the vibrant energy of the tattoo community. Show hours run Friday from 2–11 pm, Saturday from 11 am–11 pm, and Sunday from 11 am–8 pm, offering plenty of time to explore the artistry and creativity on display. More info
Riverside Pride
Riverside Pride fills White Park with LGBTQ+ joy and community spirit on Saturday, May 30. The fourth annual celebration features the theme “Stonewall Lives: Existence is Resistance,” with local vendors, delicious food, powerful art, engaging workshops, and entertainment that highlights resilience and visibility. With a full day of activities and a welcoming atmosphere for all ages, the festival invites attendees to gather in solidarity and celebration. Free tickets are available, making it easy for the community to participate. More info
Marilyn’s Morning After Snarkitecture Tour
The Palm Springs Art Museum is the departure point for Marilyn’s Morning After Snarkitecture Tour on Sunday, May 31, a sharp‑witted, 90‑minute bus experience led by comedian Shann Carr. Offered at 10 am and 12 pm, the tour serves “the tea with sugar and shade” as Shann blends humor, queer storytelling, and delightfully sketchy facts about Marilyn Monroe and other iconic Palm Springs women. Designed as a playful companion to the Marilyn 100 festivities the day before, the tour showcases Carr’s four decades of queer comedy and deep local roots, and 20% of proceeds support PS Pride. More info
Michael Childers Nude Yoga Series Photography Exhibit and Sale
The Michael Childers Nude Yoga Series invites guests to Art @ 401 for a thoughtful exploration of yoga through the lens of the celebrated photographer. Presented by Urban Yoga Center, the exhibit runs Friday–Saturday, May 29–30 from 6–9 pm, showcasing large framed works, 11″x14″ prints, and additional pieces available for purchase. Visitors can experience Childers’ artistic interpretation of balance, presence, and form in an intimate gallery setting that highlights the beauty and discipline of yoga practice. More info
Palm Springs 70mm Fest
The Palm Springs 70mm Fest brings three days of large‑format cinema to the Historic Camelot Theatre at the Palm Springs Cultural Center from Friday, May 29 through Sunday, May 31, showcasing iconic films in stunning 70mm on the valley’s largest screen. The series opens with Close Encounters of the Third Kind on Friday, May 29 at 7 pm plus an official proclamation by Palm Springs Mayor Naomi Soto declaring May 29 “Historic Camelot Theatre Day” in the City of Palm Springs. Saturday features The Searchers at 11 am, 2001: A Space Odyssey at 3 pm, and Boogie Nights at 7 pm. The festival concludes Sunday with Lawrence of Arabia at 11 am and West Side Story at 6 pm.
Silver Foxes
Silver Foxes, the hit comedy by writers James Berg & Stan Zimmerman, runs May 21–31 at Revolution Stage Company. This witty and heartfelt play follows four longtime friends navigating senior dating apps after an unexpected loss, blending humor with themes of resilience, friendship, and second chances. Fans of The Golden Girls and Grace and Frankie will appreciate its warm, character‑driven storytelling. Our theatre reviewer Stephen Radosh says, “the themes of aging, queer visibility, and chosen family give it emotional ballast.” Read his full review and get tickets: More info
Alvin Taylor Tribute
The Hilton Palm Springs hosts a Star‑Studded Tribute to Alvin Taylor on Friday, May 29 from 6–9:15 pm. This special evening celebrates the award‑winning Hall of Fame drummer known for his work with Barry White and numerous legendary artists. Local and visiting performers will share the stage in tribute to Taylor’s remarkable career and his lasting impact on the desert’s music community. More info
Gen X – The Takeover Comedy Tour
The Gen X – The Takeover Comedy Tour brings nostalgia‑charged humor to The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa on Friday, May 29 at 8 pm. Four Gen X creators take the stage with sharp wit, unfiltered storytelling, and a comedic lens shaped by mixtapes, mall culture, and the rebellious spirit of a generation. Fans of Gen X culture can expect a night filled with relatable laughs and performances that tap into shared memories and cultural touchstones. More info
Marilyn Film Screenings at The Plaza Theatre
The Plaza Theatre celebrates Marilyn Monroe’s centennial with a special series of classic films screening Friday–Sunday, May 29–31. Presented in collaboration with local arts partners, the lineup begins on Friday, May 29 with The Seven Year Itch, followed by Gentlemen Prefer Blondes on Saturday, May 30, Some Like It Hot on Sunday, May 31, and concludes with The Misfits on Monday, June 1. More info
Marilyn, Palm Springs and Art: A Creative 100‑Year Birthday Celebration
The Backstreet Art District hosts Marilyn, Palm Springs and Art: A Creative 100‑Year Birthday Celebration on Friday–Saturday, May 29–30, inviting local artists to showcase Marilyn Monroe‑inspired works at the Stephen Baumbach Gallery. From fashion and photography to poems, prints, and creative surprises, the event highlights glamour and artistry alongside food, drinks & music. More info
United We Stand – A Movement for Equality
The Victorville Park & Ride becomes a hub for activism and pride on Sunday, May 31 from 9–11 am during United We Stand – A Movement for Equality. Organized by the High Desert Pride Center, Not Stepping Back, and High Desert Progressive Democrats, this non‑partisan demonstration calls for justice, visibility, and LGBTQ+ rights. Participants are encouraged to bring Pride flags and stand together for dignity, freedom, and equality for all. More info
ALSO THIS WEEKEND
- Cashino
- Friday at 7 pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center. Susie Mosher and John Boswell star as Johnny Niagra and Pepper Cole in this critically acclaimed multimedia musical.
- Heather Pasternak & Jessica Keenan Comedy Show
- Friday from 7–8:30 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs. Heather Pasternak and Jessica Keenan headline a fearless Girl Talk stand-up showcase at the Cascade Lounge.
- Mikael Healey’s Baby Grand: Construction Zone (Tickets Include Dinner)
- Friday from 7–9 pm at Spirit Animal @ Hotel Zoso. Mikael Healey performs at Spirit Animal, a premium live entertainment venue located inside Hotel Zoso.
- Polar Bear Comedy Show
- Friday from 8–9:30 pm at Spotlight 29 Casino. Polar Bear brings his bold, unfiltered comedy to the Chairman’s Lounge for a fearless night of stand-up.
- Pet Adoption Event / Animal Samaritans + Petco
- Saturday from 11 am–1 pm at Petco. Animal Samaritans and Petco invite the community to find new furry best friends and provide shelter animals with loving homes.
- Mimosas with Marilyn at Canopy
- Saturday at 1:30 pm and 3 pm at Canopy Wine Lounge. Part of the Marilyn 100 celebration, guests enjoy sparkling wine and pastries during an intimate brunch featuring Alisha Soper, who portrayed Marilyn Monroe in American Horror Story.
- Desert Hot Springs Downtown Concerts
- Saturday from 6–10 pm at Desert Hot Springs City Hall. This family-friendly Latin celebration features Nacho Bustillos performing on Pierson Boulevard. The event includes an opening act, food and drink vendors, lawn games, and activities for children
- Dance Ranch / Country Dance Saturdays
- Saturday from 7–9:30 pm at Step by Step Dance Studio. This country western dance group serving the LGBTQ+ community and friends features two-step, waltz, and line dancing. The evening begins with a lesson followed by two hours of social dancing.
- A Night of Motown Dinner Show
- Saturday from 7–9 pm at Spirit Animal @ Hotel Zoso. Dion Khan stars in this soulful celebration of Southern Funk, Blues, and Gospel. The sit-down dinner show features iconic music from The Temptations, Stevie Wonder, and Marvin Gaye.
- Agave Caliente Terraza – Free Outdoor Concert Series
- Saturday at 8 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Cathedral City. The free outdoor concert series continues with Ozzmania, a tribute to Ozzy Osbourne and Black Sabbath.
- The Fab Four – The Ultimate Tribute
- Saturday at 8 pm at The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa. The Fab Four bring Beatlemania to life with note-perfect performances and era-specific costume changes.
- Swingin’ Sunday featuring Estee Graham Brunch
- Sunday from 11 am–1 pm at Spirit Animal @ Hotel Zoso. Estee Graham and The Groove Society perform live jazz, blues, and swing standards.
- The Lucie Arnaz Awards
- Sunday from 4–6 pm at McCallum Theatre. This regional competition honors excellence in high school musical theatre within the Inland Empire. The ceremony features showcase performances.
ONGOING EVENTS
- FRIDAY • Drag Bingo at Arrive from 4:30–7 pm: Join friends for rounds of bingo and happy hour deals at Arrive Hotel.
- ALL WEEK • A Queer Arcana: Art, Magic, and Spirit: Explores how magic, spirituality, and esoteric knowledge shaped queer culture through works by an intergenerational group of artists at Palm Springs Art Museum. • Convergence: Marcus Doyle creates an alien presence within the nocturnal desert landscape through unique single-frame images captured in-camera at Rubine Red Gallery.
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
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.
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!
- Michael Childers Nude Yoga Series Photography Exhibit and Sale
Fri. & Sat. May 29 & 30 at Art @401 N. Palm Springs - Villain Arts Palm Springs Tattoo Arts Festival
Fri.–Sun. May 29–31 at the Palm Springs Convention Center - Silver Foxes – presented by Revolution Stage Company
May 21–31 - House Party PS: Pink Saturday 4
Sat. Jun 6 from 5–8 pm in Palm Springs - XOXO Palm Springs: Citywide Arts & Culture Festival
Jun 11–22 - Catalina Island Pride
Sat. & Sun. Jun 12–13 - Equality Wine & Food Festival
Sat. Jun 13 from 12–4 pm at Hyatt Palm Springs - PS/NExT Summit
Mon.–Tue. Jun 22–23 at the Palm Springs Convention Center - Palm Springs International ShortFest
Jun 23–29 at Festival Theaters - Gay Wine Weekend – 15th Anniversary Celebration
July 17–19 in Sonoma Valley - Mama’s Boy – Starring Gregg Glaviano
Sat. Sep 26 at 7:30 pm at the Plaza Theatre
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 nonstop 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: DJ Galaxy keeps the energy high at Vista Grande Resort on Saturday from 12–3 pm. Friend of KGAY DJ Ray Rhodes takes over Hunters Nightclub for Red Light Strut on Saturday from 9 pm–2 am for a night of high-energy dancing and party fun. Modgirl brings her effortless cool and rhythmic pulse to DJ At Dusk: Poolside Sounds on Friday, May 29 at 4 pm at The Skylark. Then, she lights up the desert on Saturday, May 30, first spinning at The Marilyn 100 Martini Festival at the Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs Hotel at 5:30 pm before taking the energy to Palm Desert for an 8 pm set at SPECTACULAR at The Red Barn.
WIN TICKETS to Equality Wine & Food Fest
You can WIN VIP tickets to one of the country’s most celebrated LGBTQ+ culinary events as KGAY 103.1 sends you to the Palm Springs Equality Wine & Food Fest at the Hyatt Palm Springs. This celebration brings together world‑class vintners featuring LGBTQ+, BIPOC, and women‑owned wines. Enjoy over 100 pours, delicious food samples, live entertainment, a silent auction, and elevated VIP experiences. Enter to WIN on the KGAY Contest Page
Sunny 106.5 FM
Take the sunshine indoors with the Sunny 106.5 Alexa skill — just tell Alexa to “enable Sunny Palm Springs Radio skill” and the brightest variety will be one voice command away at home or at work. Sunny 106.5 is the Coachella Valley’s new home for feel‑good hits from the ’90s, 2000s, and beyond, blending familiar favorites with local updates and weekday weather from Patrick Evans. Play Sunny 106.5 Online
WIN TICKETS to Jerry Seinfeld
Sunny 106.5 is giving you the chance to WIN TICKETS to see comedy legend Jerry Seinfeld live on Saturday, June 6, 2026 at 8 pm at The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa. From his groundbreaking sitcom Seinfeld to hit specials, bestselling books, and his acclaimed film Unfrosted, Seinfeld continues to shape the comedy world with razor‑sharp wit and cultural insight. Enter to WIN on the Sunny Contest Page
- Palm Springs’ Honey Davenport Makes History With International Mr. Leather Win
- SILVER FOXES – Reviewed by Stephen Radosh
- Palm Springs Restaurant News: Tiki Social Returns, Breakfast Republic Arrives, and More Valley Dining Updates
- Palm Desert Spring Getaway: Midcentury Style, Desert Adventure & Dining Highlights
- Your Guide to Greater Palm Springs Restaurant Week Dining Experiences
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.
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.