The confluence of Halloween and Leather Pride in Palm Springs is a once in a blue moon occurrence. And yet, here we are.
There’s a great exhibition by the LGBTQ+ History and Archives project (of which I’m a board member) on display this weekend at Hotel Zoso.
As each letter of our community, each stripe of our rainbow flag seeks understanding and acceptance, this walk through our history is worth taking in. Every color of the Leather Pride flag has its own meaning as does the Gilbert flag flying high over Arenas.
The gay leather subculture emerged from the social and political turmoil of post-World War II America. It was significantly influenced by gay soldiers returning from the war who, often alienated from mainstream society and discharged with “Blue Discharges” for their homosexuality, became catalysts for this movement. No surprise that many of these men took to the big cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco. Women played a role, too, as you’ll see in the exhibition.
Cathedral City was once the “leather and kink capital of the Coachella Valley,” with venues like The Barracks (originally Wolf’s Den, opened 1992) establishing a regional identity before Palm Springs developed its own scene. The enduring importance of this physical location is evidenced by the eventual opening of the Eagle Cathedral City in the same space once occupied by The Barracks.
In 1994, PSLOD (Palm Springs Leather Order of the Desert) was formed. Leather Pride dates back to at least 1997, which you can view at the exhibition. This weekend, thousands are visiting in garb that may be confused for a Halloween costume. But don’t refer to their dress that way. Instead, they use terms such as gear or attire.
There’s a big history lesson on our leather community when you visit Hotel Zoso this weekend. Or just walk the streets of Palm Springs for the visuals and try to guess whether or not it’s a Halloween costume.
Brad Fuhr, your K-Gay Desert Guide
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Palm Springs Leather Pride 2025
Palm Springs Leather Pride 2025: Gods of Leather runs from Thursday–Sunday, October 30–November 2 with four days of bold gear, global camaraderie, and unapologetic celebration. From pool parties at CCBC and the infamous Dark Alley Marketplace to speaker series, cigar socials, and the Mr. Palm Springs Leather contest, this all-access weekend blends kink, community, and connection. Hosted at Hotel Zoso and venues across Palm Springs, it’s the ultimate gathering for leather lovers, fetish enthusiasts, and curious newcomers alike. Come for the gear—stay for the brotherhood. Check out our event listing for a detailed rundown of all the Leather Pride events: Get tickets
Unbridled Spirit: Celebrating 35 Years of Leather in Palm Springs
The LGBTQ+ History & Archives of the Desert presents Unbridled Spirit: Celebrating 35 Years of Leather in Palm Springs, an exhibition exploring the significant impact of the leather community on the Coachella Valley. Curated by Mike Király, the exhibit runs at Hotel Zoso throughout Leather Pride weekend. Admission is free, with viewing hours from 11 am–8 pm Friday and Saturday, and 11 am–3 pm on Sunday. More info
Two Nights of Halloween on Arenas
Get ready for two nights of dance parties during Halloween on Arenas in the Arenas District! The celebration kicks off with Dance Party #1, “The Masked Party,” on Friday, October 31 from 4–10 pm, featuring entertainment from Dev, Meaty Beats by Juan, DJ Modgirl, and DJ Jeffree. The excitement continues with Dance Party #2, “The Unmasking: Leather Fetish Fantasy,” on Saturday, November 1 from 4–10 pm, with special performances by DJ Luciana and DJ Hector Fonseca. Both nights offer free admission with a suggested $10 donation to support LGBTQ+ charities, and feature a Halloween costume contest. More info
HOT DEAL ALERT: Snag a BOGO deal for VIP tickets to Saturday’s The Unmasking: Leather Fetish Fantasy! Buy one for $85 and get one FREE! That’s a $170 value, getting 2 tickets for just $85. Available Friday only, and must be picked up at the Gay Desert Guide office by 4 pm. Shop now
Pride on the Page Book Festival
Pride on the Page returns to the Palm Springs Cultural Center on Saturday, November 1 for a full day of literary celebration featuring LGBTQIA+ authors, poets, and publishers. From 10 am–5 pm, panels and readings will explore queer fiction, oral histories, poetry, and the publishing process. Then, from 7–9 pm, special guest Chris Colfer will appear in conversation about his celebrated work and advocacy. Attendees can also enjoy book signings, local author showcases, and updates on the Palm Springs Public Library renovation. The event takes place throughout the Camelot Theatre and outdoor tent, with storytelling, connection, and community pride. Get tickets
KGAY Out and About at Nola at Escena
KGAY goes Out & About with John Taylor on Sunday, November 2 from 11 am–1 pm at Escena Golf Club for a live broadcast spotlighting Nola at Escena—a stunning enclave of luxury single-story homes with sleek architecture, private pools, and panoramic golf course views. Guests can tour the newly re-opened model home, meet the team, and register to win tickets to see Duran Duran at Acrisure Arena. Tune in and experience the lifestyle where every morning begins with the gentle whisper of luxury. More info
International Imperial Court System 60th Anniversary
Join Courtiers from across North America in Palm Springs to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee 60th Anniversary of the International Imperial Court System (IICS), one of the world’s oldest and largest LGBTQ+ charitable organizations. The four-day celebration at the Renaissance Palm Springs Hotel runs from Thursday–Sunday, October 30–November 2. The weekend is packed with events, including the Welcome Maple Leaf Mixer, the Denim & Diamonds night, the grand 60th Anniversary Gala, and the Crowning of King Father II of the Americas, concluding with a Sunday Poolside Brunch. More info
Agua Caliente Casinos Celebrate Halloween
Agua Caliente Casinos are pulling out all the stops for Halloween weekend, October 31–November 2! Head to Cathedral City for the After Dark Halloween Bash on Friday at 8 pm featuring Empire Records and DJ Ebony, plus a costume contest with $1,800 in cash prizes. Sip spooky $10 cocktails all weekend, catch Nacho Bustillos live on Saturday, and explore more thrills at Rancho Mirage with Mammoth featuring Myles Kennedy on Friday and Lance Burton: Master Magician and Friends on Saturday. More info
Scoop Palm Springs Ice Cream Festival
Get ready for the sweetest Sunday in the desert—Scoop Palm Springs Ice Cream Festival debuts November 2 from 12–4 pm at Downtown Park. Sample creamy creations from top local vendors, groove to music from Modgirl, and enjoy family-friendly fun including an interactive kids art exhibit. Your $35 ticket gets you ten tasty samples, and every scoop supports the Palm Springs LGBTQ Center’s Community Food Bank. Come for the flavor, stay for the impact. More info
Priscilla, Queen of the Desert
Palm Canyon Theatre rolls out the glittery road trip adventure with Priscilla Queen of the Desert, running October 24–November 16. This high-energy musical follows three drag queens across the Australian outback, packed with dazzling costumes, iconic pop anthems, and a heartfelt celebration of identity, friendship, and fabulousness. Get tickets
The Inheritance – Part 2
The Bent Theatre Company presents The Inheritance – Part 2 at the Palm Springs Cultural Center/Camelot Theatre, running through Sunday, November 2. Inspired by E.M. Forster’s Howards End, this sweeping drama explores three generations of gay men as they navigate survival, identity, and the meaning of home. Whether or not you saw Part One, audiences will be seamlessly caught up before diving into this emotional journey of connection, reckoning, and renewal. Adult content; nudity included. Get tickets
The Cottage
Broadway’s killer comedy The Cottage runs through Sunday, November 2. Set in the 1920s, this stylish and scandalous romp follows one woman’s daring decision to expose her affair—unleashing a whirlwind of secrets, betrayal, and absurd hilarity. With razor-sharp dialogue and unexpected twists, the production offers a wickedly funny take on love, marriage, and the messiness in between. Get tickets
Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical
Kick off the holiday season with Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical at the McCallum Theatre, Sunday, November 2 at 1 pm and 6 pm and Monday, November 3 at 7 pm. This Broadway hit brings Whoville to life with dazzling sets, beloved songs like “You’re A Mean One Mr. Grinch,” and a heartwarming tale narrated by Max the Dog. Perfect for all ages, it’s a festive celebration of joy, mischief, and the true spirit of Christmas. Get tickets
Living Healthy Expo
The Living Healthy Expo is Saturday, November 1 from 9 am–2 pm at the Cathedral City Community Amphitheater. This premier wellness event brings together local businesses, health experts, and community partners for a day of interactive exhibits, free health screenings, cooking demos, and family-friendly activities—including a dedicated kids’ zone. Attendees can enjoy giveaways, sample products, and even meet Food Network “Chopped” champion Chef Antonello Zito and Patrick Evans of NewsChannel 3 and MeTV FM as they share their favorite healthy recipes. More info
Opera Under the Stars
Palm Springs Opera Guild joins The Coachella Valley Symphony for a magical evening of Opera Under the Stars on Saturday, November 1 from 6–8 pm. Held at the Rancho Mirage Amphitheater, this open-air concert features four professional opera singers backed by the full symphony, creating a stirring night of music beneath the desert sky. Proceeds benefit both organizations. More info
Palm Springs Vintage Market
The Palm Springs Vintage Market returns Sunday, November 2 from 7 am–2 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs. This open-air market is a monthly favorite from October through May, offering a curated mix of retro treasures, antiques, and reclaimed finds. With friendly vendors, a welcoming community vibe, and a focus on authentic Mid Century style, it’s the perfect place to browse, connect, and “capture vintage with a view.” More info
Hansel and Gretel
Palm Canyon Theatre welcomes audiences to a charming, family-friendly adaptation of Hansel and Gretel, running this Saturday & Sunday, November 1 & 2. Presented by Doug Nagel and Coachella Valley Classical Voices, this abridged version of Humperdinck’s opera blends classic storytelling with a touch of Spanish flair, making it a magical experience for all ages. Get tickets
LGBTQ+ Quality of Life Survey
The LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert invites Coachella Valley residents to take part in its new LGBTQ+ Quality of Life Survey, designed to gather insights that will shape future programs, services, and advocacy efforts. By sharing lived experiences, participants help strengthen community support and ensure that local voices are heard and valued. Please take the 30-minute survey by Sunday, November 9.
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!
ALSO THIS WEEKEND
Friday, October 31
BOO! Halloween Carnival & Haunted House | 4–7 pm at James O. Jessie Center
Drag Bingo/Trivia Nights (alternating) | 4:30–7 pm at Arrive Hotel
Reclamation Art Installation by Tim Gleason | Fri–Sat at Impell Gallery
Food Truck Fridays | 5–10 pm in Downtown Indio
Deborah Silver w/special guest Sam Harris | 6–9:30 pm at The Purple Room Supper Club
Saturday, November 1
Reclamation Artists Reception | 3:30–5:30 pm, 4–7 pm at Impell Gallery
Deborah Silver w/special guest Sam Harris | 6–9:30 pm at The Purple Room Supper Club
Dance Ranch: Hello Stranger Line Dance with Andrew Jimenez | 7 pm at Step by Step
Lance Burton Master Magician and Friends | 8 pm at The Show
Sunday, November 2
A.M. Stream with Modgirl | 9 am–12 pm (special time this week) at Cafe La Jefa
The Judy Show! | 5–8:30 pm at The Purple Room Supper Club
Daylight Saving Time Ends
Daylight Saving Time ends this Sunday, November 2 at 2 am—so be sure to set your clocks back one hour and enjoy a rare extra hour of sleep. With Halloween and Leather Pride this weekend and Palm Springs Pride kicking off next week, it’s a busy stretch. Take a moment to recharge before the next wave of celebration begins—Pride week is coming in hot!
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!
LOOKING AHEAD
MON: Toast to Jacques Pépin Fundraiser
Raise a glass to culinary legend Jacques Pépin at Toast to Jacques Pépin, a one-night-only fundraising dinner on Monday, November 3 from 5–9 pm at Alice B in Palm Springs. Hosted by acclaimed chefs Susan Feniger and Mary Sue Milliken, this multi-course celebration features Jacques-inspired dishes with a West Coast twist, paired with wines from Frank Family Vineyards. In honor of Pépin’s 90th birthday, the evening supports the Jacques Pépin Foundation’s mission to expand access to culinary education—blending flavor, philanthropy, and French flair. More info
TUE: Positive Life Series – HIV and Spirituality
Join the Positive Life Series on Tuesday, November 4 at 6 pm for a powerful evening exploring What You Need and Why? HIV and Spirituality at the Palm Springs Cultural Center. Led by Dr. James Mullen of Global Truth PS, this free educational event offers insight, connection, and community support. Register by Sunday, November 2 at midnight to reserve a complimentary sandwich from Sprouts! More info
- Palm Springs Leather Pride 2025 – Gods of Leather
Oct 30–Nov 2 at Hotel Zoso, Tool Shed, CCBC, Hunters - UNBRIDLED SPIRIT: Celebrating 35 Years of Leather in Palm Springs
Thu.–Sun. Oct 30–Nov 2 at Hotel Zoso - Halloween on Arenas – 2 Days!
Fri. & Sat., Oct 31 & Nov 1 - 4th Annual Pride on the Page Book Festival
Sat. Nov 1 at the Palm Springs Cultural Center - Nola at Escena / KGAY Out & About w/John Taylor + Duran Duran ticket giveaway
Sun. Nov 2 from 11 am–1 pm at Escena Golf Club - The Cottage: Broadway’s Killer Comedy
Oct 10–Nov 2 at Desert Theatreworks - Sasha Velour: The Big Reveal Live Show
Wed. Nov 5 at 7 pm at the McCallum Theatre - Alec Mapa: “Ha! Penis!”
Wed. Nov 5 at 7 pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center - Sordid Lives 25th Anniversary Benefit Screening Costume Contest & Q&A
Thu. Nov 6 at 7:30 pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center - Global Queer Resistance Through Street Art
Thu.–Sun., Nov 6–9 at Impell Gallery - Palm Springs Pride 2025: “Be Heard”
Thu.–Sun. Nov 6–9 - Miss Richfield 1981: “There’s a Pill for That!”
Thu.–Sat. Nov 6–8 at 7 pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center - Jackie Beat: “Honk If You’re Horny”
Thu.–Sat. Nov 6–8 at 9 pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center - Palm Springs Pride 5K Run & Walk
Sat. Nov 8 from 8am–12 pm in downtown Palm Springs - The Official Palm Springs Pride Pool Party
Sat. Nov 8 from 11 am–5 pm at Palm Springs Surf Club - Rainbow Splash – Official Palm Springs Pride Event
Sat. Nov 8 from 12–4 pm at CCBC Resort - HRC Palm Springs Garden Party
Sat. Nov 8 from 2–4:30 pm at a private estate - Palm Springs Pride Parade
Sun. Nov 9 at 10 am in downtown Palm Springs - Protect the Dolls Brunch
Sun. Nov 9 from 12–2 pm at The 4707 - Mizell Center Presents Cheyenne Jackson Live in Concert
Wed. Nov 12 at 7 pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center - Rancho Mirage Business Expo and Job Fair
Thu. Nov 13 from 4–7 pm at Agua Caliente Rancho Mirage - West Side Story in Concert: A Gala Celebration
Thu.–Sat. Nov 13–15 at 7 pm at Dezart Playhouse - Sutton Lee Seymour – “Witch, Please”
Thu.–Sat. Nov 13–15 at 7 pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center - Daniel LeClaire – “My Heart Belongs to Daddies”
Fri. & Sat., Nov 14 & 15 at 9 pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center - Kenny G. at the Spotlight Showroom
Sat. Nov 15 at 8 pm at Spotlight 29 Casino - Hedwig & The Angry Inch
Thu.–Sat. Nov 20–22 at 7:30 pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center - 11th Annual Cathedral City International Hot Air Balloon Festival
Fri.–Sun. Nov 21–23 at Cathedral City Civic Center Plaza - Desert Winds Freedom Band: For the Heroic, Bright and Beautiful
Sat. Nov 22 at 7 pm at the Jewish Community Center - David Bowie Tribute: David Brighton’s Space Oddity Concert
Sat. Dec 6 at 7:30 pm at The Riviera Resort & Spa - Texas Tenors Christmas Concert with The Desert Symphony
Wed. Dec 10 at 7:30 pm at The Show - 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
Fantasy Springs Resort Casino, a longtime partner of Gay Desert Guide, is proudly sponsoring KGAY’s hand fans and commemorative Palm Springs Pride “Be Heard” T-shirts this year. They’re also supporting the live broadcast at our T-Shirt Swap in the Arenas District on Friday, November 7 from 4–6 pm. Located in Indio, Fantasy Springs continues to champion visibility and celebration across the Coachella Valley. 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: Modgirl spins a double-header of sets at Halloween on Arenas on Friday, October 31: Catch her on the Mainstage from 6–8:30 pm, then head to the DJ Stage from 9–10 pm. Then on Sunday, November 2, it’s a morning set of A.M. Stream at Café La Jefa at 9 am, followed by an afternoon groove at the Scoop Palm Springs festival at 1 pm.
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 play the biggest hits from Stevie Wonder this Sunday morning on Goddard’s Gold at 9 am, 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.”
MeTV FM is giving listeners a chance to WIN TICKETS to Kenny G Live at the Spotlight Showroom on Saturday, November 15 at 8 pm. With over 75 million albums sold and a signature sound that’s defined instrumental music for decades, Kenny G’s latest project, Innocence, offers a soothing blend of lullabies and timeless melodies. From beloved classics like “Over the Rainbow” to serene originals, this concert promises an evening of emotional depth and musical elegance. Enter to WIN on the MeTV FM Contest Page
- Mark Hunter Seymour to Receive 481st Star on Palm Springs Walk of the Stars
- Palm Springs Airport Expansion Boosts Travel, Jobs, and Local Economy
- Modernism Week 2026 Schedule Revealed: Exclusive Home Tours, Parties, and More, Tickets on Sale Nov. 1
- Record-Breaking IGLTA Global Convention Celebrates LGBTQ+ Travel and Visibility in Palm Springs
- November Food Festivals and Restaurant Openings in 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 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.