In the flurry of news about war, oil prices and the Supreme Court you may have missed that the Pulse Nightclub in Orlando, Florida has been demolished.
On March 16th, the iconic Pulse sign came down. Days later, the City of Orlando tore into the roof and within days it was nothing but a pile of rubble.
June 12, 2016 will live in our community’s psyche forever as we woke up that Sunday morning to the devastating news that a mass shooting had taken place just hours before. As we watched TV reports and scrolled social media posts, the extent of the horror began to unfold.
49 people died in the deadliest mass shooting in US History. And the target was our LGBTQ+ community.
We hurriedly organized a vigil on Arenas Road. Then on that Thursday, another vigil by Vincent Corrales at Francis Stevens Park. “We have gathered at this corner after hate crimes and Prop 8,” said Corrales, who is our KGAY Retro Lunch host and community activist. “This time, we gather for our fallen brothers and sisters.”
Ten years on, the nightclub’s demolition will make way for a permanent memorial. The project is expected to be completed in 2027. With parallels to our Palm Springs AIDS Memorial, the Pulse memorial went through a number of iterations and not without controversy. Originally, the building was going to be maintained as a museum of sorts. The non-profit was dissolved, but a progressive city council stepped in. The new design will incorporate the sign and include 49 illuminated columns honoring each victim.
We didn’t have the leadership of Police Chief Andy Mills ten years ago, and after last week’s announcement, we won’t have him much longer. We’ve felt more safe under his leadership. He’s been alongside us in so many ways, and helped shape the Palm Springs Police force into a more tolerant and understanding agency.
If only we had more people with the same empathy and compassion for all human beings as Andy and Cathy, we’d have fewer tragedies like that of the Pulse Nightclub.
A footnote: The rainbow crosswalk in front of the Pulse Nightclub was painted over just a few months ago by Ron DeSantis’ draconian edict carried out by the FDOT. That occured even after talks took place to preserve the crosswalk as part of the memorial.
Brad Fuhr, your K-Gay Desert Guide
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MON: Sage & Friends
Sage & Friends invites the community to an uplifting evening honoring the contributions of LGBTQ+ life in Palm Springs and beyond. Taking place on Monday, March 23 from 5–7 pm, this free gathering offers a warm, welcoming space to connect and celebrate. The event location will be shared upon registration, and donations are appreciated to support ongoing community programs. Get tickets
TUE–SUN: Beetlejuice – The Musical
Beetlejuice brings its wild, high‑energy spirit to the McCallum Theatre as the hit musical transforms Tim Burton’s beloved story into a sharply funny, visually inventive stage experience running Tuesday–Sunday, March 24–29. The production follows Lydia Deetz as her world collides with a mischievous demon and a recently deceased couple, blending big laughs with a surprisingly heartfelt look at family and connection. The show captures the offbeat charm of the film while delivering a theatrical spectacle all its own. Get tickets
WED–SUN: American Documentary and Animation Film Festival
The American Documentary and Animation Film Festival returns Wednesday–Sunday, March 25–29, bringing five days of compelling nonfiction and animated storytelling to Palm Springs. Recognized as one of the world’s top documentary festivals, AmDocs showcases powerful films from around the globe, honors trailblazing creators, and continues its mission to elevate independent voices through screenings, filmmaker conversations, and its influential pitch competition. Get tickets
WED: The Center Social – March
On Wednesday, March 25 from5:30–7 pm at Arrive Hotel, The Center Social offers an inviting evening of connection and friendship. This monthly gathering, held every fourth Wednesday, is an ideal place to enjoy a tasty happy hour while meeting new people in a relaxed setting. Whether someone is a regular or attending for the first time, the event provides a warm, welcoming space for the community to come together. It’s a highlight for anyone looking to expand their social circle and enjoy a lively happy hour in the desert. More info
WED: Guide Dogs of the Desert Easter Bonnet Auction
Celebrate spring in true Palm Springs style at the Guide Dogs of the Desert Easter Bonnet Auction on Wednesday, March 25 from 6–9 pm at Eight4Nine Restaurant & Lounge. With Modgirl and Bella Da Ball setting the tone, this lively fundraiser brings fabulous bonnets, fierce bidding, and unforgettable performances from drag favorites Sassy and Volta. Every bid helps provide life‑changing medical care for guide dogs in training — so bring your sparkle, bring your generosity, and get ready for a night of glam with a purpose. RSVP today
WED: LGBTQ+ Advocacy Day 2026
LGBTQ+ Advocacy Day takes place on Wednesday, March 25 from 9 am–5 pm, bringing hundreds of community members and advocates to the Capitol in Sacramento for a full day of legislative meetings, storytelling, and pro‑equality engagement. The annual gathering has become one of the state’s largest LGBTQ+ civic events, featuring virtual training in advance, coordinated team visits with lawmakers, and an end‑of‑day reception for participants to connect and reflect. More info
WED: A Cabbello – Broadway Lights the Way
A Cabbello expands its celebration of musical‑theatre storytelling with two performances of Broadway Lights the Way at the Cascade Lounge: Wednesday, March 25 and Wednesday, April 1 from 7–8:30 pm. The desert’s premier men’s vocal ensemble brings its signature blend of harmony and heart to a program highlighting Broadway songs that illuminate love, justice, belonging, and our shared humanity. With doors opening at 6 pm, each evening offers an inspiring journey through the music and messages that continue to guide and uplift audiences. Get tickets
THU–SUN: Palm Springs International Pride Hockey Tournament
The 2026 Palm Springs International Pride Hockey Tournament brings a full weekend of competition and celebration to the desert, with games played Friday–Sunday, March 27–29 at the Berger Foundation Iceplex at Acrisure Arena and the Renaissance Esmeralda in Indian Wells serving as the host hotel. The weekend kicks off with a registration and opening celebration on Thursday, March 26 from 6–9 pm at Hunters—John Taylor will be there Out and About with KGAY 103.1 from 6–8 pm—and other events include a Saturday evening social from 7–10 pm at V Wine Lounge. The tournament wraps in true Palm Springs style with a pool party on Sunday, March 29 from 2–7 pm at the Riviera Resort & Spa. More info
THU–SUN: Canna Week Coachella Valley
Celebrate the cannabis heritage of the valley during Canna Week Coachella Valley, running from Thursday–Sunday, March 26–29. Hosted by award-winning podcast host Ishqa Hillman, this week is a celebration of culture, craft, and commerce across various locations. Whether guests are “OGs” or “canna-curious,” they can explore consumption lounges, dispensaries, and local cultural sites. This initiative, created by the Coachella Valley Cannabis Alliance Network (CVCAN), highlights the lifestyle and businesses shaping the region. More info
THU: PRIDE for the Pride
PRIDE for the Pride arrives Thursday, March 26 at The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens, highlighting the LGBTQ+ community’s role in supporting the zoo’s newest conservation initiative, Lion Ridge. For more than 50 years, The Living Desert has been a cornerstone of the Coachella Valley and a global leader in wildlife protection, and this new effort brings African lions to the zoo while raising awareness about their critically endangered status. PRIDE for the Pride unites new and longtime supporters to champion this important project and celebrate the community’s commitment to conservation, education, and meaningful action — all set to the roaring soundtrack of Modgirl, who will be spinning from 6–8 pm. More info
FRI: Karen Devine Walk of the Stars Dedication
Give a big cheer for a desert icon on Friday, March 27 at 11 am as Karen Devine receives the 486th star on the Palm Springs Walk of the Stars in downtown Palm Springs. Recognized for her stellar 35-year career, she is a familiar face at KESQ and a long-time co-worker of Patrick Evans, who also keeps the valley entertained and informed on our own Sunny 106.5 FM. With multiple Emmy Awards, Devine is being honored for her amazing contributions to entertainment and humanitarian work. More info
FRI–SAT: PS Book Fest
PS Book Fest by OUTspoken runs Friday–Sunday, March 27–29 at Festival Theaters, bringing three days of author conversations, community programming, and book‑loving energy to the heart of Palm Springs. Designed for readers and non‑readers alike, the festival features exclusive ticketed events on Friday and Saturday, with additional programming details to be announced soon. Sunday offers a free Community Day with activities for all ages, making the weekend a celebration of stories, ideas, and connection. More info
FRI–SAT: Nicolas King – Tales of a Broadway Baby!
Nicolas King brings his acclaimed storytelling and song back to The Purple Room for Tales of a Broadway Baby, with performances running Friday and Saturday, March 27 and 28 from 6–9:30 pm. Marking his 30th year in show business, King guides audiences through a musical journey that spans Broadway, jazz, the Great American Songbook, and memorable moments from his years performing with Liza Minnelli. Get tickets
FRI–SUN: JBKO
Step into the private world of an American icon with JBKO, a powerful one-woman play at the Revolution Stage Company running this Friday–Sunday, March 27–29. This intimate production stars the critically acclaimed Yo Younger as Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy Onassis, capturing the resilient woman behind the global image of grace. In his review, Stephen Radosh raves that “Yo Younger gives a tour-de-force performance as Jackie” and “totally captures the essence of her persona.” Read his full review and Get tickets
Beehive: The ’60s Musical
Celebrate the defining sounds of the 1960s at Desert Theatreworks with Beehive: The ’60s Musical, appearing March 13–April 4. Six talented performers guide you through forty chart-topping hits that shaped a generation, including classics like “My Boyfriend’s Back” and “You Don’t Own Me.” You will hear the music made famous by legendary icons such as Aretha Franklin, Tina Turner, and Janis Joplin. This high-energy revue captures the spirit and style of a decade defined by unstoppable voices. More info
Cooling Centers
Beat the heat and stay chilled! The City of Palm Springs is providing relief at Palm Springs Cooling Centers whenever the mercury hits 100 degrees or higher. You can find sanctuary at the James O. Jessie Desert Highland Unity Center on Monday–Friday from 9 am–5:30 pm. Alternatively, the Palm Springs Public Library Temporary Location at Rimrock Plaza is open Monday and Thursday from 10 am–6 pm, Tuesday and Wednesday from 10 am–8 pm, and Friday and Saturday from 10 am–5 pm. Even furry friends are welcome at the library! For daily access, Martha’s Village and Kitchen operates the Palm Springs Access Center as a vital cooling space for unhoused individuals.
ALSO THIS WEEK
Fancy Feasts
The Annual Dinner Gala—Full of Life takes place Tuesday from 5:30–9 pm at Tamarisk Country Club. Patrick Evans emcees this senior wellness celebration while Marisa Corvo performs for community leaders. Join Mark Kopitzke and the Nightcaps at the Endless Possibilities Gala / Alzheimers Coachella Valley Thursday from 5:30–8:30 pm at Miramonte Resort & Spa. The evening honors local philanthropist Sherwyn Turbow. Host Craig Michaels and artist Jennifer De’Roma lead the Wine and Design Mixer Thursday from 5:30–7:30 pm at Purvis Gallery of Design. This intimate soirée helps guests unlock their home’s potential. Finally, mingle with enthusiasts at the CVRep Encore Gala Thursday at 6 pm at Desert Island Country Club. This major fundraiser features an exquisite dinner provided by the experts at Eight4Nine.
Soulful Songs and Symphony Sounds
Hear evocative originals from Gregory Douglass during Gregory Douglass LIVE at The Velvet Rope Wednesday from 7–8:30 pm. The Big Butter Jazz Band brings wild New Orleans rhythm to Cascade Lounge at the Agua Caliente Casino Thursday from 7–8:30 pm. Superstars David Foster and Katharine McPhee share the stage Friday at 8 pm at The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa. David Finckel and Wu Han perform world-class music at the International Classical Concerts of the Desert Saturday from 3–5 pm at Palm Desert Community Presbyterian Church. The Desert Hot Springs Downtown Concerts presents a free nineties party Saturday from 4–8 pm at City Hall with headlining band y2k2k.
Stage Stories and Dramatic Delights
Witness favorite performers tackle dream musical theatre roles in The Roles That Got Away Wednesday at Palm Canyon Theatre. Experience Andrew Lloyd Webber’s haunting Hollywood noir Sunset Boulevard playing Thursday–Sunday at Palm Canyon Theatre. The dazzling musical tells a tragic tale of fame, obsession, and faded dreams.
Fairs, Famous Faces, and Fast-Paced Fun
Dialogue with newsmakers Ben Shapiro and Van Jones at Desert Town Hall 2026 Thursday at 10 am at Renaissance Esmeralda Resort. Learn to dance with Samantha Jo and DJ JJ during Neon Saddle: Line Dance 101 • High Noon Supper & Honky Tonk Saturday from 12–8 pm at Spirit Animal @ Hotel Zoso. “Come on Down” to The Price Is Right Live – On Stage Saturday at 8 pm at The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa. Explore desert gallery takeovers at The High Desert Art Fair Saturday–Sunday at Pioneertown Motel, and visit Sammy’s International Meatball Festival Sunday from 1–4 pm at Boys and Girls Club of Cathedral City.
