If you pay attention to the news (whether from real sources or pants-on-fire social media), this weekend was tough. Mass shootings around the world dominated headlines. Then last night’s shocker that Rob Reiner and his wife were killed just two days before his Palm Springs Speaks appearance at The Plaza Theater.
We also have had a controversy affecting our LGBTQ+ community and the city of Palm Desert that has boiled over.
KESQ reported Thursday that Palm Desert Mayor Pro Tem Joe Pradetto proposed that the city stop recognizing Pride Month. The proposal would include no longer displaying a Pride banner at City Hall. His reasoning: “Government should not be in the ‘business’ of celebrating the private identities of one group over another.” The council has placed this on a January meeting agenda to allow for public comment. But reaction was swift and polarized.
California Assemblyman Greg Wallis came to our immediates support with a public statement that read in part, “Pride month recognition doesn’t create division, it affirms that every resident deserves to be celebrated and respected.” That may seem somewhat suprising from a Republican, but Wallis does have a record of taking pro-LGBTQ stances on issues such as marriage equality.
The assemblyman also called it a ‘slap in the face’ to LGBTQ+ residents. Raymond LeFleur of Gay Men of Palm Springs described it as a “gut punch” as activity on the Facebook group heated up over the weekend. That group has been quite active, but so have the comments against Wallis and for Pradetto. People are spewing hate-filled comments on social media. I was taken aback — but probably shouldn’t be — that the MAGA movement continues to encourage hate in many forms.
Whether it’s immigrants, female journalists, our trans brothers and sisters or someone like Wallis standing up for a marginalized group, MAGA just can’t help themselves. They trip over each other to see who can comment and criticize in the most vile way. That’s no way to act in a civilized society. But here we are.
Letters against this proposal are one way to show support. But like our “No Kings” marches, this requires people showing up at the Palm Desert City Hall when council considers this next month.
The bigger question is how do we change hearts and minds of those who truly revile us and wish us harm like other marginalized groups. Love Wins, but it’s a tough battle.
Brad Fuhr, your K-Gay Desert Guide
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TUE–SUN: Manilow: A Gift of Love VII
Barry Manilow returns to the McCallum Theatre starting on Tuesday, December 16 from7–9 pm with A Gift of Love VII, a dazzling holiday concert benefiting 25 Coachella Valley charities. Performances continue on Wednesday at7 pm, Friday & Saturday at8 pm, and Sunday at 7 pm. Audiences can expect a heartwarming mix of Manilow’s greatest hits and festive favorites, plus surprise appearances that have previously included snow, Santa Claus, and children’s choirs. Premium Gold and Platinum tickets offer exclusive perks like post-show receptions and photo ops with Barry. Get tickets
WED: Vaccine Clinic at The Center
Riverside University Health System – Public Health will host a free Vaccine Clinic at The LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert on Wednesday, December 17 from 11:30 am–3:30 pm. The clinic offers Flu, Jynneos (Mpox), Pneumonia, Hep B, Shingles, and Tdap vaccines based on availability and eligibility. No appointments are necessary. More info
WED: The Center’s Paws & Claus Winter Social
The LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert invites the community to a special combined gay men’s and queer women’s Center Social on Wednesday, December 17 from 5:30–7 pm at The Center’s Community Food Bank. Guests can enjoy a warm evening of connection, friendship, and a tasty happy hour while snapping festive holiday pet photos and helping stock the pantry. All friendly pets are welcome, making this gathering a joyful way to celebrate together and support neighbors in need. More info
WED & THU: MTU – A Very Broadway Christmas
Celebrate the season in true Broadway style at MTU: A Very Broadway Christmas on Wednesday & Thursday, December 17 & 18, at 7 pm at the Annenberg Theater. This festive showcase brings together the talented students and alumni of David Green’s Musical Theatre University with Broadway stars Kevin Chamberlin, James Snyder, Rachel York, andMarissa Jaret Winokur for a dazzling, fully staged holiday spectacular with beloved classics and fresh favorites. Get tickets
WED–SUN: Dear Evan Hansen
CVRep presents the regional premiere of Dear Evan Hansen for a powerful run through Sunday, December 21. This award-winning musical—honored with six Tonys, a Grammy, and an Olivier—tells the deeply moving story of Evan Hansen, a teenager thrust into the spotlight after a tragic event. The show explores identity, connection, and the human need to be seen. Our theatre reviewer, Stephen Radosh, says “It is one of those wonderful productions where all the ingredients, i.e. the direction, cast, set and the material itself all blend together seamlessly to produce a dynamic and moving theatre experience.” Read his full review. – Get tickets
THU–SUN: Dog Sees God
The Bent presents Dog Sees God at the Palm Springs Cultural Center, running through December 21. This bold, unauthorized play reimagines familiar childhood comic strip characters as troubled teens navigating real-life issues—from substance abuse and sexuality to bullying and rebellion. Darkly funny and unexpectedly heartfelt, Dog Sees God offers a raw, relevant look at adolescence through a lens of cultural nostalgia and emotional truth. Get tickets
THU–SUN: Annie
Palm Canyon Theatre presents Annie, running through Sunday, December 21. This heartwarming musical follows the spirited orphan Annie and her dog Sandy as they search for family and hope. With beloved songs like “Tomorrow” and “It’s the Hard Knock Life,” the production offers a joyful theatrical experience for audiences of all ages this holiday season. Get tickets
THU: Holiday Oddities 4! – “Who needs a drink?”
Holiday Oddities 4! returns to the Palm Springs Cultural Center’s Camelot Theatre on Thursday, December 18 from 7–9 pm with its 2025 “Who needs a drink?” edition—a delightfully offbeat reel of holiday mayhem curated by Deserted Films. Expect a whirlwind of weird Santas, squinty Christmas mornings, trippy animations, and highly flammable Hanukkah moments, all stitched together with live commentary, sharp editing, and a splash of seasonal sass. Held in the cozy confines of screen 2, this family-friendly (ish) evening is equal parts nostalgia, chaos, and cheer—with proceeds supporting film preservation efforts. Get tickets
THU: Ezra Ray Hart – 90s Hits & Xmas Riffs
Ezra Ray Hart lights up The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa on Thursday, December 18 at 8 pm with ’90s Hits & Xmas Riffs—a high-octane holiday concert blending nostalgic anthems and seasonal favorites. Featuring Mark McGrath (Sugar Ray), Kevin Griffin (Better Than Ezra), and Emerson Hart (Tonic), this all-star trio brings decades of chart-topping hits and festive energy to the stage. It’s a one-night-only celebration of feel-good rock and holiday cheer. Get tickets
On Thursday, December 18, the Palm Springs Police Department will conduct a DUI checkpoint from 6 pm–1 am at an undisclosed location. Designed to promote public safety, checkpoints are placed based on crash data involving impaired drivers. Sergeant Frank Guarino emphasized that impaired driving—whether from alcohol, drugs, or marijuana—puts lives at risk. The department reminds drivers that a first-time DUI can result in fines and penalties averaging $13,500, along with a suspended license.
FRI–SUN: Palm Springs Gay Men’s Chorus – BELLS, BRASS & SASS
The Palm Springs Gay Men’s Chorus celebrates the season with Bells, Brass & Sass for three SOLD OUT performances, on Friday & Saturday, December 19 & 20 at 7 pm, and Sunday, December 21 at 2 pm at the newly restored Plaza Theatre. This festive spectacular features over 100 voices, a 14-piece orchestra, and a dazzling mix of holiday classics and contemporary hits—from Elf The Musical to Cher, Kelly Clarkson, and the Weathergirls, plus sleighbells, handbells, and guest performances. Attendees are also encouraged to bring non-perishable food donations as the Community Food Bank Team will be collecting curbside to support families in need this holiday season. More info
FRI: Razzle Dazzle Christmas Show
Step into the holiday spirit with Razzle Dazzle: A Broadway Revue’s Christmas Show at the Palm Springs Cultural Center on Friday, December 19 at 7 pm. Hosted by Bonnie G. with Joe Savant, and featuring dazzling performances by Sonia Reavis and Thom Vindiola and Robert Ollis on piano, this show delivers a truly memorable evening filled with Broadway magic and Christmas cheer. Get tickets
Holidays at the Tram
Celebrate the season at the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway with special holiday hours from Saturday, December 20 through Sunday, January 4, with the first tram up at 8 am and last tram down at 9:30 pm. On both Christmas Day and New Year’s Day, the Pines Café offers a Ride ’n’ Dine holiday meal featuring turkey, ham, or vegetarian lasagna. For a fine‑dining experience on Christmas Day, Peaks Restaurant presents a special prix fixe menu with selections such as roasted duck, pan‑seared salmon, or filet mignon. Reservations are recommended for Peaks Restaurant.
Best of Desert Voting Round Begins
The Desert Sun’s Best of Desert Community’s Choice Awards Voting Round runs now through Sunday, December 28. The top nominees in each category now compete for your daily votes to determine the winners. Please vote KGAY! When casting your ballot, choose “DJ Mod Girl” (our Modgirl Kellee McQuinn) for Entertainment & Leisure – People: Radio Personality/Show, and select KGAY 106.5 & 92.1 FM for Entertainment & Leisure – Radio Station (Local). Cast votes in 25 or more categories for a chance to win a $250 gift card! More info
Magic of Lights
The holiday season sparkles once again as Magic of Lights returns to the Empire Polo Club in Indio through Wednesday, December 31. Families can enjoy a dazzling drive‑through light display and the enchanting Holiday Village powered by IID. Now in its fourth year, this beloved tradition transforms the Coachella Valley into a breathtaking winter wonderland, shining brightly under the desert stars. Get tickets
For all events go to GayDesertGuide.com
