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WED: L-Fund Town Hall (In-Person)
The L-Fund invites the community to an in-person Town Hall on Wednesday, October 8 from 5–6:30 pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center/Camelot Theatre. This important gathering will explore the future of The L-Fund, including a potential merger with The LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert. Attendees will learn about the organization’s 13-year legacy of supporting lesbians in the region and have the opportunity to ask questions, share feedback, and help shape the next chapter. All are welcome—especially those served by The L-Fund. More info
WED: Town Hall Meeting with Mayor Ron deHarte
Palm Springs Mayor Ron deHarte invites residents to a community town hall at Palm Springs City Hall on Wednesday, October 8 from 5:30–7 pm. Attendees will hear updates on the State of the City, learn about current challenges, and have the opportunity to share ideas for Palm Springs’ future. No registration required. More info
WED: Maroon 5
Maroon 5 brings their “Love is Like” Tour to Acrisure Arena on Wednesday, October 8 at 8 pm. Fans can expect a high-energy night featuring hits from their new album, including the chart-climbing single “Priceless,” a standout collaboration with LISA of Blackpink. With sleek visuals and signature pop-rock flair, the band delivers a dynamic performance that blends fresh tracks with fan favorites. Special guest: Rising artist Claire Rosinkranz. Get tickets
WED: Behind the Currtain: “Opera Exposed”
Revolution Stage Company presents Opera Exposed on Wednesday, October 8 from 7–8:30 pm, featuring Metropolitan Opera singer Valerian Ruminski in a candid evening of music and backstage revelations. With piano accompaniment by Joel Baker, Ruminski shares his journey from boy soprano to international performer, weaving together arias by Puccini, Verdi, and Handel with Broadway favorites and jazz classics. Through personal stories and unexpected moments, he offers a humorous and heartfelt look at the real world behind the opera curtain. Get tickets
STARTS THU: Joshua Tree Music Festival
The 20th Fall Joshua Tree Music Festival returns October 9–12 to Joshua Tree Lake Campground for four immersive days of music, movement, and magic under the desert sky. JTMF features nonstop performances across three stages—from sunrise grooves to late-night headphone house—plus over 100 workshops, yoga sessions, and art installations. The festival’s te Queer Salon offers a vibrant sanctuary for QTBIPOC and LGBTQIAA+ joy, connection, and empowerment—don’t miss Saturday’s Deep Glam! runway show celebrating queer brilliance and bold self-expression. With a genre-blending lineup including Diggin Dirt, Madame Gandhi, Yak Attack, and Farah Siraj, this family-friendly celebration invites you to dance, connect, and camp beneath the stars in one of California’s most inspiring landscapes. Get tickets
THU: Barkee Bash
LaRoux’s House of Love Animal Sanctuary invites supporters to the fabulous Barkee Bash, which takes place on Thursday, October 9 from 5:30–9 pm. The event is hosted at the Palm Springs Surf Club by the fabulous mistress of mischief and fun, Ethylina Canne, and honors Melody Farnik of Animal Action League. Guests can enjoy a cash bar, a silent auction, a kissing booth, and more. Every dollar raised supports the care of senior dogs, providing them with everything from vet visits and daily medication to soft beds and nutritious food. Get tickets
THU-SUN: 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
FRI: Singing with the Desert Stars
Desert Ensemble Theatre presents Singing With the Desert Stars IV on Friday, October 10 from 6–10 pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center. This one-night-only gala marks the final chapter of DET’s 15-year legacy, pairing professional performers with local leaders in a spirited singing competition. Among the standout contestants is KGAY 106.5‘s own morning host John Taylor, stepping into the spotlight with charm and vocal flair. The evening promises music, mentorship, and community celebration, all in support of DET’s scholarship program for aspiring theatre students. More info
FRI: Kool & The Gang
Kool & the Gang bring their legendary funk, soul, and R&B sound to the Special Events Center at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino on Friday, October 10 at 8 pm. With a career spanning more than five decades, the Hall of Fame inductees have earned two Grammy Awards, seven American Music Awards, and 31 gold and platinum albums. Their iconic hits—“Celebration,” “Cherish,” “Jungle Boogie,” “Summer Madness” and “Open Sesame”—have defined generations of dance floors and radio waves. Get tickets
FRI: The Life and Music of George Michael
The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa welcomes The Life and Music of George Michael on Friday, October 10 at 8 pm. This immersive concert-style tribute celebrates the pop legend’s journey from Wham! to solo stardom, featuring electrifying performances of beloved hits like “Faith” and “Careless Whisper.” With dazzling staging and heartfelt storytelling, the evening promises a powerful blend of nostalgia and musical brilliance. Get tickets
FRI: Firebirds Season Opener
The Coachella Valley Firebirds return to Acrisure Arena for their season opener on Friday, October 10 at 7 pm, facing off against the San Diego Gulls. As the team launches its fourth season in the desert, fans can expect high-energy hockey, hometown pride, and a packed arena buzzing with Firebirds Territory spirit. See the full October schedule for the Firebirds on our event page: More info
OPENS FRI: The Cottage
Broadway’s killer comedy The Cottage opens at Desert Theatreworks on Friday, October 10 and runs October 10–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
SAT: National Coming Out Day
Saturday, October 11 marks National Coming Out Day, a powerful moment to honor authenticity, courage, and LGBTQ+ visibility. Whether sharing a story, supporting a loved one, or simply showing up, the day invites everyone to celebrate the strength it takes to live openly. In communities across the country, events and conversations will shine a light on the importance of acceptance and the ongoing fight for equality.
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!
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
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 WEEK
Monday, October 6
Mizell Kitchen Series: Charcuterie and Cheese Board | 3–5 pm at Mizell Center
Monday Night Bingo with Bella da Ball | 7–9 pm at the Ace Hotel
Hot Spot Trivia with Deven & Ned | 7–8:30 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs
Tuesday, October 7
Positive Life Series: Health Insurance Medicare Enrollment | 6–7:30 pm at Palm Springs Cultural Center
Branford Marsalis Quartet | 7 pm at the McCallum Theatre
Wednesday, October 8
The Dirty Show 4.0 – On All Fours! | 7 pm at Dietlart Gallery and Performance Space
Hot Spot Bingo with Deven & Ned | 7–8:30 pm at Agua Caliente Cathedral City
Thursday, October 9
Senior Transportation Options Workshop | 2–4 pm at The Center
Opening Reception for “LIGHT” | 5–7 pm at the Artist Council Artist Center at the Galen
Carousel Live Retro Music | 7–8:30 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs
VillageFest Street Fair | 6–10 pm in Downtown Palm Springs
Thursday–Sunday, October 9–12
Western Xposure Fall Bear Week | CCBC Resort
Friday, October 10
Drag Bingo/Trivia Nights (alternating) | 4:30–7 pm at Arrive Hotel
Food Truck Fridays | 5–10 pm in Downtown Indio
Cirque Mechanics: Tilt! | 7 pm at the McCallum Theatre
Saturday, October 11
Solar Sessions at Royal Sun Palm Springs | 12–6 pm
The Lofts Art Walk | 4–7 pm
18th Annual Concert for Autism Lead-Up Event | Hood Bar & Pizza, Palm Desert
2025 Architectural Preservation Awards | 6–10 pm at the Annenberg Theater
Indio Second Saturdays | 7 pm in Downtown Indio
Country Dance Saturdays: Beginner Two-Step | 7 pm at Step by Step
Sunday, October 12
Stephan Moccio | 3 pm at The McCallum Theatre
