My body hurts from a weekend of lifting, hugging and standing. Oh, and some dancing too. DJ Modgirl’s closing set on Sunday night gave me some time to reflect on the weekend. With her momentous set from Abba to Chic, Diana Ross to Sylvester, those who witnessed the final celebration of Palm Springs Pride got a treat. I couldn’t stand still even with aching legs.
After that, I was wiped out. I came home to a what had been my staging area for the weekend, but was really home. There were piles of changes of clothes everywhere. Buddy the Wonder Dog wonders where I’ve been all weekend. The garbage can was full of to-go boxes; the sink piled with dirty dishes. The counter filled with business cards, postcards and flyers that I’ve gathered from various booths and people I met. Will I remember the context?
I replay conversations in my head. One sticks: “You saved my life with KGAY!” I flashback to the Pride Parade (March) where I can picture the faces of those I saw along the route — friends from near and far who came out to support our LGBTQ + community during these troubled times.
My camera roll tells the story of a week’s worth of activities. From the time when Pre-Pride celebrations were on our mind (celebrations in Cathedral City and Acrisure Arena), to Friday night’s kickoff at the Hyatt for our incredible honorees, I documented many moments that will show as memories for years to come.
As Pride was winding down Sunday afternoon, I texted Ron deHarte to see if he’d been on the Ferris Wheel yet. We had been talking about taking a ride all week, and solo riders weren’t allowed. So we took a few minutes to stand in line and wait our turn to board the Coachella-famous wheel.
Rising above our city was such a sight to behold. The sun was still illuminating distant mountains and deserts as dusk fell on a shrouded Palm Canyon Drive. Music reverberated, revelers sashayed. Yet blocks away, the rest of the Coachella Valley was going about its regular business.
Not us. We were making a statement about the state of world affairs. Every person or business who supported Pride is a part of a movement that proves to the world that we will not be erased or marginalized. So thanks to each of you for your part. Our “Be Heard” theme resonated around the world and was timely in so many ways.
Now the planning starts for Pride 2026.
Brad Fuhr, your K-Gay Desert Guide
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Get Your 2025 KGAY Pride Shirt Online Now
If you weren’t able to get one of our T-Shirt Swaps in person at Palm Springs Pride this past weekend, fear not! You can still show your Pride and support KGAY by grabbing the official 2025 KGAY Pride Shirt online. Featuring a bold, celebratory design in your choice of colors and styles (classic-T, tank top, sweatshirt, v-neck, fitted scoop, and more) this limited-edition design lets you rep Palm Springs Pride wherever you are. Shop now
TUE: Veterans Day Ceremony at LGBTQ Veterans Memorial
Join the community on Tuesday, November 11 at 10 am for a moving Veterans Day Ceremony at the California LGBTQ Veterans Memorial in Desert Memorial Park. This inclusive tribute honors all who have served, with special music by Prince Fleet Easton and heartfelt recognition of LGBTQ veterans and allies. Palm Springs Police Officer Jorge Diaz will also be recognized for his exemplary service to both his country and community. More info
TUE: Palm Springs Veterans Day Parade
Honor our heroes at the Palm Springs Veterans Day Parade on Tuesday, November 11 from 3:30–5:30 pm along Palm Canyon Drive and E. Tahquitz Canyon Way. This free community event features a procession followed by a patriotic concert and fireworks finale at Amado Road. Celebrate service, sacrifice, and unity in the heart of downtown. More info
TUE: Veterans Day in Cathedral City
On Tuesday, November 11, Cathedral City invites the community to honor Veterans Day with a visit to the Fields of Valor, a powerful installation of more than 2,000 American flags saluting local veterans and fallen service members. The display, located at Patriot Park, includes dedicated areas for veterans of WWI, WWII, Korea, Vietnam, Iraq, Desert Storm, and Afghanistan, as well as a newly designated section recognizing service dogs. That evening, from 5–7:30 pm, the city hosts a free Veterans Day Cookout as part of Tastes & Sounds of Cathedral City, featuring live music by the Rancho Mirage High School Band and BBQ hot dogs available for purchase from Nick’s Bistro. More info
TUE & WED: Little Shop of Horrors
It’s two nights of musical mayhem as Musical Theatre University and Palm Springs Art Museum present Little Shop of Horrors under the stars on Tuesday and Wednesday, November 11 and 12 at 7 pm. Set in the Elrod Sculpture Garden, this stylish concert version features standout student performances alongside guest artists Jason Graae and Randy Brenner. Enjoy table seating, charcuterie, dessert, wine, and champagne courtesy of Willie Rhine and Eight4Nine. Get Tickets
WED: Gimme Shelter Luncheon
The Palm Springs Animal Shelter invites the community to its annual Gimme Shelter Luncheon on Wednesday, November 12 from 12–1 pm at the Ace Hotel & Swim Club. This free, one-hour gathering offers guests a meaningful look into the shelter’s mission, including updates on the Desert Wildlife Center and opportunities to pledge long-term support for the animals in their care. RSVP today
WED: Cheyenne Jackson Live in Concert
Cheyenne Jackson, acclaimed Broadway performer and television star, takes the stage at the Palm Springs Cultural Center on Wednesday, November 12 from 7–9 pm for a one-night-only concert presented by the Mizell Center. Known for his standout roles in Glee, American Horror Story, and 30 Rock — as well as his celebrated performances in Xanadu and Finian’s Rainbow — Jackson brings his powerhouse vocals and magnetic presence to an intimate evening of music and storytelling. Limited Tickets
THU: Rancho Mirage Business Expo
The Rancho Mirage Business Expo returns Thursday, November 13 from 4–7 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa Rancho Mirage, offering a dynamic platform for professionals to connect, collaborate, and showcase their brands. With hundreds of attendees and a reputation for selling out, this annual event is a prime opportunity to boost visibility, spark new partnerships, and engage with industry leaders across the Coachella Valley. More info
THU–SAT: Sutton Lee Seymour in “Witch, Please!”
Get ready for a whirlwind of campy comedy as Sutton Lee Seymour brings Witch, Please! to the Palm Springs Cultural Center at 7 pm nightly, Thursday–Saturday, November 13–15. From Oz to Wicked, Sutton spins the ultimate parody with ruby tap shoes, rapid-fire musical mashups, and witchy one-liners that’ll leave you cackling. Whether you’re a Broadway buff or just love a good laugh, this spellbinding show is not to be missed! Get tickets
THU–SUN: La Quinta Art Celebration Encore
The La Quinta Art Celebration returns Thursday–Sunday, November 13–16 at the La Quinta Civic Center, bringing together jury-selected artists from around the world for four days of creativity and connection. Set against the stunning backdrop of one of the Coachella Valley’s most picturesque venues, this premier event features original artworks, vibrant community energy, and a VIP experience that art lovers won’t want to miss. More info
THU–SUN: West Side Story in Concert, a Gala Celebration
Dezart Performs celebrates the grand opening of its new playhouse with West Side Story in Concert, a gala event running Thursday–Saturday, November 13–15. The festivities begin Thursday, November 13 from 5:30–9 pm with a patio reception followed by a live orchestral performance of the Tony award-winning musical. Set in a mid-century modern architectural gem, this tribute to 1957 blends timeless music, bold design, and community spirit. Get tickets
THU: “Deck the Walls” Opens at the Galen
Celebrate the season with the opening reception of “Deck the Walls” on Thursday, November 13 from 5–7 pm at the Artist Council Artist Center at the Galen in Palm Desert. This festive exhibition and sale showcases original works by local artists, offering a vibrant mix of styles perfect for holiday gifting or personal inspiration. Guests are invited to enjoy light refreshments while exploring the gallery and connecting with the creative community. More info
THU–SUN: Head over Heels
Desert TheatreWorks presents a musical journey through the kingdom of Arcadia with Head Over Heels, running through November 30. Fueled by the infectious hits of The Go-Go’s, this joyful production blends royal drama, mistaken identities, and heartfelt discovery into a celebration of love, freedom, and self-expression. Get tickets
FRI: Karen & Tony Barone Walk of Stars Dedication
Celebrate creativity and community on Friday, November 14 from 3:30–4 pm at Downtown Park in Palm Springs as Karen and Tony Barone receive their star on the Walk of Stars. This free dedication honors the beloved artist duo’s vibrant contributions to the city’s cultural landscape and enduring legacy. More info
FRI & SAT: Daniel LeClaire – “My Heart Belongs to Daddies”
Daniel LeClaire brings the sass, swing, and a wink of leather to the Palm Springs Cultural Center with My Heart Belongs to Daddies—a cabaret comedy running at 9 pm on Friday and Saturday, November 14 and 15. Directed by Tim Murray, this jazzy, elegant-ish evening features original songs, parodies, and Broadway favorites from icons like Elvis, Eartha Kitt, and Sinatra. Whether you’re rocking steel toe boots or boat shoes, it’s a cheeky tribute to daddies everywhere. Harness optional, fun guaranteed. Get tickets
FRI: Q+ After Dark – Euphoria
Palm Springs Art Museum invites guests to Q+ After Dark: EUPHORIA on Friday, November 14 from 6–9 pm—a luminous evening of music, art, and community in support of the Q+ Art Initiative. Featuring DJ Shaun J. Wright and honoring artist Nick Cave with a screening of his short film Drive-By, the event celebrates LGBTQ+ creativity and expression. Get tickets
OPENS FRI: The Roommate
Desert Ensemble Theatre presents The Roommate by Jen Silverman, opening Friday and running November 14–23 at the Palm Springs Cultural Center. Directed by Kudra Wagner, this dark comedy explores the twists of unlikely friendship and the messy beauty of reinvention. Fresh off a successful Broadway run, the play brings sharp wit and emotional depth to the stage in a production that promises both laughter and reflection. Get tickets
FRI Preview: Retro After Dark Estate Sale
Retro After Dark takes place on Saturday, November 15 from 10 pm–3 am with a bold and cheeky late-night vintage sale for adults 18+. Located near the Tool Shed and Club 541 (address shared upon RSVP), this no-cost event features thousands of retro adult-themed items—from magazines and leatherwear to artwork and novelty treasures. A limited preview sale takes place Friday, November 14 from 6–8 pm. RSVP now and prepare for a night of nostalgic naughtiness and playful finds. More info
