o paraphrase Dolly Parton from “Best Little Wh*rehouse in Texas”:
It’s just a little bitty pissant flagpole
Ain’t nothing much to see!A Lil’ Ole Bitty Pissant Country Place
It started innocently enough on Wednesday morning: Our KGAY morning host John Taylor stepped outside his door, walked down a block from his apartment on Arenas to behold the new Pride flagpole — sans flag — standing erect at the corner of Indian Canyon.
The Arenas District Landmark Flagpole had gone up quickly and our community is excited to have it join the Palm Springs Pride Monument and the AIDS Memorial for a trifecta of public display of our LGBTQ+ importance to Palm Springs. It’s something like the flag you may have seen in San Diego’s Hillcrest district.
John’s not-so-great picture of said flagpole went viral after he posted in the KGAY Facebook page. The vitral was immediate. 54,000+ views have happened as of this writing – plus much sharing and comments that would make your hair curl. Some border on threats.
All over a flag pole – with no rainbow colors in sight. As Dolly sang:
And trouble soon started.
Ain’t nothing to hide at all
Just lots of good will and maybe one small thrill
But there’s nothing dirty going on
Nothing dirty going on
End with reiterating
But there’s nothing dirty going on
Nothing dirty going onA Lil’ Ole Bitty Pissant Country Place
The vitriol expressed from this simple post is indicative of a political environment where free speech has become a shield for hate speech. And after this week’s killing of one who trafficked in such speech, we need to be vigilant for words becoming actions in our community.
There were, of course, many comments of support, like this from Isak Leftcoast:
“In a world where rainbow crosswalks are being erased, this simple act takes on significantly more symbolic weight for our community. “
Brad Fuhr, your K-Gay Desert Guide
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Hunters 27th Anniversary
Hunters Palm Springs marks 27 years of elevated spirits with a high-energy anniversary celebration on Saturday, September 13 ,starting at 4 pm. Guests can enjoy live music by Pulp Vixen at 6 pm, followed by an pulse-pounding set from international DJ Younjosh Marley at 9 pm. Come enjoy community connection and a festive atmosphere in the heart of the Arenas District. More info
Billy Idol
Rock icon Billy Idol returns to the desert with “It’s a Nice Day To…Tour Again!” at Acrisure Arena on Friday, September 12 at 7:30 pm. Joining him for this electrifying night is fellow legend Joan Jett & the Blackhearts. Idol’s recent milestones include the 40th anniversary of Rebel Yell, a Rock & Roll Hall of Fame appearance, and the release of Billy Idol: State Line, a concert film capturing his historic performance at the Hoover Dam. Get tickets
Auditions for the Modern Men Chorus
Modern Men – Coachella Valley Men’s Chorus invites singers to audition for its 12th season and upcoming holiday concert, Cool Yule, taking place at the newly-renovated Palm Springs Plaza Theatre. This weekend’s audition opportunity will take place Saturday, September 13 at 11 am. Tenors are especially encouraged, though all voice parts are welcome. This is a chance to join a vibrant musical community and help bring harmony to the desert. More info
Gay Days Anaheim
Gay Days Anaheim takes over Disneyland Resort Friday, September 12–Sunday, September 14 with a weekend of LGBTQ+ pride, parties, and performances. Attendees can visit the Welcome Center in the Sequoia Ballroom at the Grand Californian Hotel on Friday from 12–8 pm and Saturday from 9 am–8 pm for official merchandise, show tickets, and raffle prizes. Special guests include Ginger Minj in The Magic Queendom, Cheyenne Jackson in Another Prince Charming, Lawrence Chaney in Taking the Mickey, Zach Noe Towers in A Night of Stand-Up, Jackie Cox in Nurse Jackie, Kay Sedia hosting Drag Queen Bingo, and DJ Paulo Ramirez at the Kingdom! dance party. Get tickets
High Desert Pride Festival
High Desert Pride Festival returns Saturday, September 13 from 10 am–10 pm at the San Bernardino County Fairgrounds. Celebrate love, diversity, and community with a full day of music, joy, and empowerment. Entertainment includes Aztec Dance YANKUITITL, Story Time Hour with Luna Lockhart, cover band B oK, Mariachi Arco Iris De Los Angeles, Pistolas de Oro, and a Showstopper Drag Show you won’t want to miss. All are welcome—bring friends, family, and allies for this vibrant tribute to equality and Pride spirit. More info
Valley of the Dolls
Step into sisterhood and celebration at Valley of the Dolls, a social event for trans women, transfemmes, and adjacently identified folks—happening Friday, September 12 from 4–6 pm at V Wine Lounge in Palm Springs. Hosted by the Transgender Health & Wellness Center, this free gathering offers a welcoming space to connect, unwind, and build community. RSVP and join the fun in a setting as fabulous as the guests themselves. More info
This Weekend at The Purple Room
The Purple Room Supper Club serves up a dazzling weekend of music, comedy, and star power. On Friday, September 12, Broadway duo Nic & Desi bring “Broadway to Hollywood” to life with soaring vocals, stunning choreography, and heartfelt storytelling—joined by American Idol’s Michael Orland on piano. Saturday, September 13 features powerhouse vocalist Debby Holiday with her Tina Turner Tribute, delivering iconic hits with unmatched energy and soul. Then on Sunday, September 14, Michael Holmes returns with “The Judy Show,” a riotous blend of impersonation, comedy, and classic standards that celebrates Judy Garland and her legendary guests. Get tickets
Interfaith Discussion on Christian Nationalism
Join an open-hearted conversation at the Interfaith Discussion on Christian Nationalism, happening Saturday, September 13 from 9:30–11:00 am at the United Methodist Church of Palm Springs. In partnership with Havurah of the Desert, this hybrid book study explores Amanda Tyler’s How to End Christian Nationalism, offering practical tools to foster religious freedom and pluralism. All are welcome to engage in this timely dialogue and help build a more inclusive community. RSVP encouraged. More info
McCallum Theatre: Jon Lovitz, Camila Fernández
This weekend at McCallum Theatre: Comedy icon Jon Lovitz takes the stage Saturday, September 13 at 8 pm with his trademark humor and charm. On Sunday, September 14 at 3 pm, Camila Fernández delivers a powerful performance, showcasing the soul and strength of the Fernández Dynasty. Get tickets
Sunnylands’ Films In the Gardens Series
Sunnylands’ beloved Films in the Gardens series returns with “Tales Beneath the Trees,” a trio of eerie, tree-themed classics screened under the stars. Kicking off Friday, September 12 at 7:30 pm with Poltergeist, this free outdoor event invites guests to bring lawn chairs, blankets, and small picnics for a spooky night in the gardens. Gates open at 6 pm, with snacks available from the Sunnylands café. Presented in partnership with the Palm Springs International Film Festival, this cinematic celebration runs three consecutive Fridays—don’t miss the magic and mystery beneath the canopy. More info
Primetime Emmy Awards
Television’s biggest night returns Sunday, September 14 at 5 pm as the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards take center stage at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles. Hosted by comedian Nate Bargatze, the ceremony honors the best in prime time programming from the past year, with top contenders including Severance, The Penguin, and The Studio. The event will air live on CBS and stream on Paramount+
Greater Palm Springs Spa Month
Greater Palm Springs Spa Month is underway, offering a full month of rejuvenating wellness experiences across the valley’s most celebrated resorts and spas. Check our video short for a Spa Month sneak peek with Brad. With over 100 indulgent deals now available, visitors can enjoy discounted facials, massage treatments, overnight spa packages, and yoga passes—each thoughtfully crafted to help guests relax, recharge, and embrace the healing energy of the desert. Whether you’re seeking a solo escape or a shared retreat, Spa Month is the perfect invitation to unwind. Advance reservations are strongly recommended. More info
ALSO THIS WEEKEND
Friday, September 12
Healthy Desert, Healthy You! Environmental Health Summit | Westin Rancho Mirage
Rancho Mirage Chamber Annual Marketing Summit | 8:30 am–12:30 pm at RM Library
Drag Bingo/Trivia Nights (alternating) | 4:30–7 pm at Arrive Hotel
Food Truck Fridays | 5–10 pm in Downtown Indio
Saturday, September 13
CVRep Auditions for Pinocchio | 10:30 am–6 pm
Solar Sessions at Royal Sun Palm Springs | 12–6 pm
The Lofts Art Walk | 4–7 pm at The Lofts Art District
Indio Second Saturdays – Live Music, Food, Fun | 7 pm in Downtown Indio
Country Dance Saturdays: Beginner Waltz with Alicia Hennick | 7 pm at Step by Step
