Traveling abroad — as I did recently — becomes a constant Lucy & Desi moment: “Lucy, you’ve got some ‘splainin’ to do!” And explain away I did. The Europeans I interacted with felt real pity for what we are going through politically.
Most wondered aloud what’s happening to the country they once admired. Some had stories of parallel political perils that their country had survived. None could believe the fall that our democracy has taken.
Starting in Ireland and working our way through the various political histories of England, France, Spain and Portugal, one couldn’t help but see cases of history repeating itself. The most recent and parallel to what we’re experiencing has to be Portugal.
We ended our Brandg Vacations cruise in Lisbon, as the sun rose over the bay and we crossed under the April 25 bridge, a near-replica of the Golden Gate Bridge.
Why would a bridge be named after a date, you may ask? So did I.
On April 25th 1974, a group of military officers started a revolution, the Carnation Revolution, as it is known, which overthrew the dictatorial regime of António de Oliveira Salazar, and established democracy in the country. This day is a national holiday, the ‘Freedom Day’.The bridge had been named for the dictator of Portugal prior to the revolution.
And while our generals had a chance to overthrow the Trump regime last week, time will tell what happens to the United States of America. It would be a great day to see garish names like TrumpRX removed, his gold-leafed White House restored and he — along with those who empowered him — jailed.
BTW, Lucille Ball never uttered those words in an I Love Lucy episode. But we here in the USA still have plenty of ‘splainin’ to do to the rest of the world…
Brad Fuhr, your K-Gay Desert Guide
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Pride Under the Pines
Pride Under The Pines moves to Idyllwild Town Hall on Saturday, October 4 from 12–7 pm with its most dazzling celebration yet. Headlined by powerhouse vocalist Janice Robinson, the fifth annual LGBTQ+ festival also includes appearances by KGAY 106.5’s DJ Galaxy, Prince Joshua, drag stars Mayhem Miller, Abigail Beverly Hillz, and Violetta, with host Alexander Rodriguez bringing his signature flair to the stage—all set against the scenic mountain backdrop. Founded in 2021, the event has grown into a beloved tradition supporting LGBTQ+ advocacy in local communities. With nonstop entertainment and a spirit of unity, Pride Under The Pines invites everyone to celebrate boldly and joyfully in the heart of Idyllwild. More info
Mike Balaban – The Accidental Historian
Step into five decades of queer life and legacy at Mike Balaban: The Accidental Historian, a compelling photo exhibition running October 2–6 at Jaco Moretti Arts in Palm Springs. Known online as @Bammer47, Balaban’s candid portraits and travel snapshots chronicle the lives of gay men across generations—from poolside joy to moments of quiet resilience. What began as a personal passion has grown into a powerful archive of LGBTQ+ history, offering younger audiences a rare glimpse into our community’s past. More info
Blue Zones Project Palm Springs Well-Being Festival
Blue Zones Project Palm Springs presents the Well-Being Festival on Saturday, October 4 from 10 am–1 pm at Wellness Park (Via Miraleste and Tachevah Road)—a free, feel-good celebration of health and happiness. Enjoy energizing beats from KGAY’s own Modgirl, fresh local produce at the pop-up farmers market, yoga and cardio sessions, and delicious bites from top local vendors like Chef Tanya’s Kitchen, Liv’s Palm Springs and more. Free with RSVP: More info
Get our Pride 2025 Visitor Map & Guide – FREE!
Check out our Pride 2025 Edition of the K-Gay Desert Guide Visitor Map & Guide —just released! 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!
One Night Out: Paris
The Palm Springs Air Museum transforms into the City of Lights on Saturday, October 4 from 7–10 pm for One Night Out: Paris, a dazzling soirée benefitting The Foundation for PSUSD. Guests will indulge in French cuisine, sip French 75s, and enjoy live music inspired by Moulin Rouge alongside DJ Alf Alpha’s dance beats. Parisian mimes and fortune tellers add flair to this très chic evening, all in support of student programs and educational initiatives. Early entry and a jazz trio reception await VIP guests at 6 pm. Get tickets
“Do You Remember?” with Clive Davis
On Friday, October 3 at 6:30 pm, the Annenberg Theater at the Palm Springs Art Museum hosts “Do You Remember?”—a cinematic tribute to the legendary career of Clive Davis, produced by Mark Ronson and co-produced by Erich Bergen. The screening is followed by a live Q&A with Davis, moderated by Barry Manilow. VIP guests are invited to a hosted reception in the Meyerman Sculpture Garden with hors d’oeuvres and beverages. This special evening benefits the Palm Springs Plaza Theatre Foundation. Get tickets
This Weekend at The Purple Room
The Purple Room serves up a full weekend of cabaret brilliance starting Friday and Saturday, October 3–4 with Billy Stritch: All For You. Known for his work with Liza Minnelli and Tony Bennett, Stritch brings a sophisticated blend of Broadway, Bossa Nova, and Great American Songbook classics, joined by Trey Henry on bass and Rick Montalbano on drums. Then on Sunday, October 5, The Judy Show! takes the stage with a high-energy tribute to Judy Garland and other icons, blending comedy, music, and nostalgia into one unforgettable evening. Get tickets
Blink-182
Blink-182 brings their Missionary Impossible Tour to Acrisure Arena for two shows: on Saturday & Sunday, October 4 & 5 at 7 pm, reuniting Mark Hoppus, Tom DeLonge, and Travis Barker for a high-octane night of punk rock nostalgia and new hits. Following the release of their chart-topping album One More Time …, the trio dives deep into their iconic catalog with a setlist built for longtime fans and new listeners alike. Get tickets
Palm Springs Vintage Market Returns
The Palm Springs Vintage Market returns Sunday, October 5 from 7 am–2 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs. After a summer break, this beloved monthly event kicks off its fall season with a curated mix of retro treasures, reclaimed finds, and mid-century gems. Held the first Sunday of each month through May, the market offers a vibrant community vibe where locals and visitors connect over vintage style and timeless design. More info
Best of Desert Nominations
The Desert Sun’s Best of Desert Community’s Choice Awards Nomination Round runs now through Wednesday, October 22. This is your chance to show love for local favorites in the “Entertainment & Leisure” category—consider nominating DJ Galaxy, DJ Eric Ornelas, and Modgirl for DJ Event/Wedding; John Taylor, Patrick Evans, and Chris Shebel for Radio Personality/Show; and KGAY 106.5/92.1 and 103.1 MeTV FM for Radio Station – Local. Submit nominations daily and if you nominate in 25 or more categories, you’ll be entered to win a $250 gift card. Let’s celebrate the voices, beats, and stations that keep the desert dancing! Nominate here
Epson Tour Golf Championship
The Epson Tour Championship returns to Indian Wells Golf Resort from Thursday to Sunday, October 2–5, bringing the season finale of the LPGA’s official qualifying tour to the Coachella Valley. Played on the Celebrity Course, this high-stakes tournament features 108 elite athletes competing for a $250,000 purse and the final chance to earn LPGA Tour cards for 2026. The event offers fans a front-row seat to the future stars of women’s golf. More info
Los Angeles Lakers Preseason Opener
The Los Angeles Lakers return to the Coachella Valley on Friday, October 3 from 7–9:30 pm to kick off their 2025–26 preseason at Acrisure Arena with a high-profile matchup against the Phoenix Suns. The game marks the team’s third consecutive year in the desert, continuing a legacy that dates back to the Showtime era when the valley served as the Lakers’ training camp home. Following back-to-back sold-out appearances, fans can expect a thrilling night of basketball as the Purple and Gold reignite their roots in Greater Palm Springs. Get tickets
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
Palm Canyon Theatre invites audiences to step into a world of pure imagination with Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, running October 3–12. This whimsical musical follows Charlie Bucket’s golden-ticket adventure through a magical chocolate factory, bursting with colorful characters and beloved songs. Perfect for all ages, the production promises a sweet escape into a story that celebrates wonder, kindness, and the unexpected. Get tickets
Rumours of Fleetwood Mac
Rumours of Fleetwood Mac takes the stage at The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa on Friday, October 3 at 8 pm for a tribute concert that captures the magic and mystique of one of rock’s most iconic bands. Personally endorsed by Mick Fleetwood, the performance channels the energy and emotion of Fleetwood Mac’s legendary catalog, offering fans a chance to relive timeless hits in a stunning live setting. Get tickets
Snow Guessing Contest Begins
❄️ Think you can predict the first snowfall atop Mt. San Jacinto? The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway’s Annual Snow Guessing Contest returns October 1! Submit your best-guess date by postcard (no, really) for a chance to win Tram tickets and a special gift. Let the snow speculation begin: 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!
ALSO THIS WEEKEND
Friday, October 3
Drag Bingo/Trivia Nights (alternating) | 4:30–7 pm at Arrive Hotel
Food Truck Fridays | 5–10 pm in Downtown Indio
Saturday, October 4
Solar Sessions at Royal Sun Palm Springs | 12–6 pm
Country Dance Saturdays: Fireball Line Dance with Andrew Jimenez | 7 pm at Step by Step
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!
- Pride Under the Pines 2025
Sat. Oct 4 in Downtown Idyllwild - Blue Zones Project Palm Springs Well-Being Festival
Sat. Oct 4 from 10 am–1 pm at Desert Healthcare Wellness Park - “Do You Remember?” with Clive Davis
Fri. Oct 3 at 6 pm at the Annenberg Theater - One Night Out: Paris
Sat. Oct 4 at the Palm Springs Air Museum - Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
Oct 3–12 at Palm Canyon Theatre - Kool & The Gang
Fri. Oct 10 at 8 pm at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino - Joshua Tree Music Festival
Thu.–Sun. Oct 9–12 at Joshua Tree Lake Campground - Singing with the Desert Stars
Fri. Oct 10 at 6:30 pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center - The Cottage: Broadway’s Killer Comedy
Oct 10–Nov 2 at Desert Theatreworks - 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 - 2025 IGLTA Global Convention (LGBTQ+ Travel Association)
Tue.–Sat. Oct 21–25 - The Addams Family – A New Musical Comedy
Fri.–Sun. Oct 24–26 at the Rancho Mirage Amphitheater - 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 - 4th Annual Pride on the Page Book Festival
Sat. Nov 1 at the Palm Springs Cultural Center - 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 - 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
Welcome, Native Foods! KGAY and Gay Desert Guide are thrilled to partner with your Palm Springs, chef-crafted, 100% vegan restaurant celebrating bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and sustainability. Our inclusive audience loves dine-in, delivery, and pickup. Cheers to Pride season and a flavorful year together. Learn more
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
This Weekend: DJ Galaxy will be at our #1 event for the weekend, Pride Under the Pines on Saturday, October 4, and Modgirl is spinning through the desert this weekend, starting Friday, October 3 at 7 pm with In the Mix at Thompson Palm Springs. On Saturday, October 4, she brings the beats to the Blue Zones Well-Being Festival at 10 am at Wellness Park, then heads to Acrisure Arena at 5:30 pm to fire up the Blink 182 pre-show, both Saturday and Sunday!
KGAY 106.5/92.1 and 103.1 MeTV FM are also giving fans a chance to win tickets to The Life and Music of George Michael—Friday, October 10 at The Show at Agua Caliente Rancho Mirage. This tribute concert is more than a performance; it’s a celebration of George Michael’s iconic hits, unforgettable style, and lasting legacy. Enter to WIN on the KGAY Contest Page and the 103.1 MeTV FM Contest Page
KGAY 106.5/92.1 is giving fans a chance to snatch tickets to RuPaul’s Drag Race Werq The World Tour 2025—Saturday, October 11 at The Show at Agua Caliente Rancho Mirage. This year’s tour transforms the stage into the fiercest awards show in herstory, hosted by Jimbo as Joan Rivers and featuring dazzling performances by Derrick Barry, Jaida Essence Hall, Naomi Smalls, Marina Summers, Morphine, and surprise Season 17 finalists. 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
This weekend on 103.1 MeTV FM: Steve Goddard will bring you Animal Songs and Groups this Sunday morning at 9 am on Goddard’s Gold, brought to you by The Skylark Bar at the Skylark hotel. 103.1 MeTV FM plays a Timeless and Memorable variety of the ’60s, ’70s, and ’80s with a touch of the ’50s! Listen in your car, at work, at home or around the world, online at 1031metvfm.com or tell Alexa, “Open 103.1 MeTV FM.”
- October Events in Greater Palm Springs: Music, Festivals, and Outdoor Fun
- Palm Springs Pride Launches $25K Matching Challenge for Landmark Flagpole
- The Dinah’s Final Year: Queer Women’s Spaces Beyond the Party
- The 22 Best Boutique Hotels in Palm Springs for Your Next Getaway
- Palm Springs Parade Season Celebrates Pride, Veterans, Holidays, and Black History
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.