Trump funk. That’s how I’d describe the mood in my small town of Hastings, Michigan, as residents celebrated the 4th of July. The pre-holiday concert drew a big crowd as expected. I joined my friends, one of whom plays in the Hastings City Band, with no expectation other than to enjoy a summer evening of music.
Thankfully, there were no MAGA hats or shirts in site. That was a bit surprising given the deep Red population of our county. There were, however, a few protest t-shirts worn by attendees. But overall I observed somewhat tepid responses to even the most rousing of patriotic songs, the Sousa March Stars and Stripes Forever.
It’s not that the band’s leader, Spencer White, or narrator Paul Ballinger, didn’t bring their “A” game to the show. The program featured MLK’s “I Have A Dream” speech broadcast over the band’s music, a reading of the Gettysburg Address, excerpts from the Declaration of Independence and tributes to our service members.
My observation — and maybe I’m projecting — is that most Americans are not happy with the state of our union as we celebrate the 249th year of our Independence. Could it be that all this turmoil is taking its toll on our citizenry?
As we heard stories, songs and readings from the dark times in our republic, I couldn’t help think that we are back there again. And for our LGBTQ+ community, ‘the hits just keep on coming’ (as we say in radio). But these hits are against our very existence and our rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
My liberals friends and I lamented the state of our country over a beer afterward. We continue to hold out hope that the tide will turn and that some semblance of normalcy will return to America in our lifetime. And since most of us are of retirement age, we recognize that time is growing short.
Brad Fuhr, your K-Gay Desert Guide
For the latest, follow our socials @GayDesertGuide and @KGAY1065 and listen to KGAY Palm Springs wherever you reside!
#ILoveGayPalmSprings #ILoveGayCatCity #ILoveGayTravel #ILoveGay #SayKGAY #FindYourOasis #SupportYourStation
All-American 4th of July Weekend
Independence Day in Palm Springs features a spectacular weekend of events! The festivities kick off on Thursday, July 3, with a family-friendly Kickoff Party at VillageFest from 7–10 pm, featuring games, crafts, activities, live music, and free snowcones. On Friday, July 4, dive into the holiday spirit with a Pool Party at the Palm Springs Swim Center from 3–10 pm, catch the Power Baseball game at 6 pm (gates open 4:30 pm), and enjoy a concert by Beatles tribute band Hard Day’s Night at 7 pm. The evening culminates with dazzling fireworks at Sunrise Park at 9:15 pm sharp. The celebration continues on Saturday, July 5, with a Dive-In Movie screening of Captain America at the Swim Center; open swim starts at 6 pm and the movie begins at 7 pm. More info
Agua Caliente 4th of July Fireworks Extravaganza Weekend
Celebrate Independence Day with a bang at the 11th Annual Fourth of July Fireworks Extravaganza on Friday, July 4 at Agua Caliente Casino Rancho Mirage. Gates open at 3 pm for this free “Drive-In” experience, with games and giveaways starting at 7 pm and a spectacular fireworks show lighting up the sky at 9 pm. With 700 parking spots available on a first-come, first-served basis, it’s one of the Coachella Valley’s most festive and family-friendly traditions. Festivities and promotions continue all weekend across all three Agua Caliente Casinos. See all the details on our event listing: More info
Big Bear Lake 4th of July
Celebrate Independence Day under the stars at Big Bear Lake’s 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular on Friday, July 4 from 7–10 pm! Enjoy a dazzling 30–40 minute show (8:45–9:15 pm) choreographed to music in one of SoCal’s most scenic mountain settings—free from the shore, the water, or a trail view. Want an elevated experience? Grab tickets to Above the Boom at Snow Summit for live entertainment, dinner, and panoramic views from 8,200 feet! More info
Red, White & Chill at the Ace
Make a splash this Independence Day at the Red, White & Chill Pool Party on Friday, July 4 from 3–9 pm at the Ace Hotel & Swim Club. Lounge poolside with a KH Smash Burger in hand, sip on ice-cold cocktails, and vibe to DJ Dtomp and friends spinning all afternoon. With sun, snacks, and seriously good beats, it’s the ultimate way to stay cool and celebrate. Get tickets
Que Color Pool Party
Dive into the heat of summer at Que Calor, a bold new pool party experience from SOS Entertainers, happening Saturday, July 5 from 2–7 pm at The Velvet Rope. This high-energy celebration blends music, movement, and radical self-expression in a vibrant, inclusive space that redefines the Palm Springs party scene. Come ready to dance, connect, and make waves. More info
Women’s Tea Dance at Palm Springs Surf Club
Get ready for the Women’s Tea Dance this Sunday, July 6, from 3–6 pm at The Palm Springs Surf Club. Hosted by The LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert, this event promises an afternoon of great music by Ay-Lex Song with no cover charge. It’s going to be a fun gathering with a pulsating atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a Sunday afternoon in Palm Springs! More info
Depth Charge PSLOD Play Party
Gear up for a night of bold energy and fun at DEPTH CHARGE, the official Palm Springs Leather Order of the Desert play party for the July 4th weekend. Happening Saturday, July 5 from 9 pm–1:30 am at Hotel Zoso’s lower level, this high-voltage event is hosted by adult superstar Ryan Sebastian with special guest International Mr. Leather 2025 Rene Hebert, plus 21 slings, 10 benches, and an electrifying crowd of party-ready players. If you loved GO DEEP at Leather Pride, you won’t want to miss this one. It’s the last chance before Leather Pride in October! More info
DADFEST at CCBC
DADFEST is this July 4th weekend at CCBC Resort: Celebrate with the DRYHEAT DJ Crew by the pool on Friday, July 4 and Saturday, July 5. The fun continues Saturday night, July 5, with BEARUNION. Purchase your tickets online or at the door for an exciting weekend dedicated to daddies! Get tickets
Colton Ford – Celebration of Life
Friends and fans will gather on Saturday, July 5 from 4–6 pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center for A Celebration of Life: Honoring Glenn Soukesian aka Colton Ford – Shine Bright Like A Diamond. This heartfelt tribute will celebrate Colton’s extraordinary journey—from adult film icon and chart-topping pop star to actor, trainer, and cherished community figure. Friends and collaborators will share live performances, personal stories, and touching video tributes, capturing his passion, artistry, and larger-than-life spirit. Doors open at 3 pm; limited seating available, so guests are encouraged to reserve their spot in advance. More info
Hyatt Palm Springs’ New Friday Night Happy Hour
Celebrate Independence Day in style at the Hyatt Palm Springs on Friday, July 4 from 6–8 pm with the launch of their new Friday Night Happy Hour & Live Entertainment series in The Atrium. Enjoy the rhythms of Leanna & Miguel on congas, special guest musicians, and a lively atmosphere complete with cocktails, dancing, and summer vibes in the heart of downtown. More info
Red, White & Cool at the Berger Foundation Iceplex
Stay Red, White, and Cool this Independence Day weekend at the Berger Foundation Iceplex, Friday, July 4–Sunday, July 6. Celebrate with themed public skating, games, and patriotic tunes on Friday; enjoy Stick & Puck and pick-up games on Saturday; then wrap up the weekend with Party in the USA Family Skate sessions on Sunday featuring live DJ music, photo ops, and free group lessons. Early arrival is encouraged—especially for the first 100 kids on Sunday, who skate free. More info
ALSO THIS WEEKEND
Thursday, July 3
VillageFest Street Fair | 7–10 pm in Downtown Palm Springs
Friday, July 4
Food Truck Fridays | 5–10 pm in Downtown Indio
Saturday, July 5
Country Dance Saturdays: Double D Line Dance with Kyle Young | 7 pm at Step by Step
Sunday, July 6
Sunday Stomp Line Dancing | 6–10 pm at Reforma
Guided Hikes | 11 am & 1:30 pm at San Jacinto State Park (Tramway Mountain Station)
