Greater Palm Springs Pride has revealed the first major performers for its landmark 40th anniversary celebration, naming recording artist and television personality Aubrey O’Day and country supergroup The Cowgays as headliners for the 2026 festival. The three‑day event returns to downtown Palm Springs and the Arenas District November 6–8, 2026, bringing an expanded mix of live music, drag, DJs, and special performances across three stages.
This initial announcement offers a preview of the diverse entertainment lineup being curated for the milestone year. More performers—including regional favorites, emerging artists, and talent from across and beyond the LGBTQ+ community—will be announced soon.
O’Day first rose to fame as a founding member of Danity Kane, the multi‑platinum pop group formed on MTV’s Making the Band. The group made chart history when its first two albums debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200. O’Day later co‑created the alternative dance‑pop duo dumblonde and has built a multifaceted career spanning music, television, Broadway, performance, and creative direction.
Joining her as a 2026 headliner are The Cowgays, the Nashville‑based trio featuring Adam Mac, Brooke Eden, and Chris Housman. Inspired by the ’90s country they grew up with—and reimagined through a proudly queer lens—the group blends tight three‑part harmonies, musicianship, humor, theatricality, and unmistakable Pride energy in their live shows.
Since its start in 1986, Palm Springs Pride has grown into the region’s largest annual LGBTQ+ gathering. This year’s 40th‑anniversary celebration continues that legacy with headliners chosen to unite a wide range of artists and audiences.
“For 40 years, Palm Springs Pride has been built by people who believe everyone deserves a place where they can show up exactly as they are and know they are part of something bigger,” said Jasmine Sullivan Waits, Executive Director of Greater Palm Springs Pride. “At a time when nonprofits and community celebrations everywhere are navigating a more challenging economic environment, we remain committed to what makes Palm Springs Pride special: keeping this celebration free, welcoming, and accessible to everyone. ‘Be Included’ is our promise that no matter the challenges, we will continue creating a place where our community can gather, celebrate, be seen, and experience joy together.”
The 2026 theme, “Be Included,” underscores Pride’s commitment to ensuring LGBTQ+ people and allies are not only welcomed but actively represented and celebrated. The festival remains free and open to all, allowing visitors to enjoy entertainment, the festival marketplace, community organizations, and weekend festivities without purchasing admission.
The 40th‑anniversary weekend culminates with the Palm Springs Pride Parade on Sunday, November 8, stepping off at 10 a.m. along Palm Canyon Drive.
More entertainment announcements—including full performer rosters and stage schedules—will be released in the coming weeks.
For festival updates, information, and ways to support Palm Springs Pride, visit https://pspride.org.
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