With apologies to Ron Oliver, it’s never a Hallmark movie Christmas. In his world, there’s conflict built into every script, but the story always resolves and the ending is tied up like a neat bow on a Tiffany-wrapped present.
Not so IRL.
Mine was a relatively easy Hard Candy Christmas, (as Dolly Parton sings) given some of the stories I hear. Oh yes, a late arrival of guests here, a bombshell family revelation there. But overall I have it pretty good. Both my parents are still alive and mobile – sometimes too much so! There were no fisticuffs; instead many moments of sharing memories and family history that soon will be lost.
This was a tough year for those of us who pay attention to what’s happening in the world. And many were hit hard financially and mentally.
My uncle took me to the airport to fly home Sunday and summarized it best: There are uneducated people in the world, but then there are those who are just ignorant. They walk the earth as though the country is just going through a “phase”, that things aren’t really so bad.
They continue to support our president as if talking to children about Peruvian pythons killing half a million people is normal. That a rage about the death of Rob and Michelle Reiner was justified. That installing a puppet at CBS news helps balance the scales of news reporting.
As we end 2025, it’s been a helluva ride. And not one I’ve enjoyed. Our tourism economy has been impacted, and that trickles down to many of us who rely on our visitors to sustain us.
I quoted Rob Reiner when we were faced with the Palm Desert Pride recognition decision just a few weeks ago. But as we look back on this year of 2025, it bears repeating:
“Silence in the face of authoritarian is complicity. Speaking out is a patriotic act. Democracy does not defend itself. It requires participation, vigilance, and courage from ordinary people.”
How will you spend 2026?? As Thom Hartmann ends his radio show: “Democracy is not a spectator sport. It begins with you. Tag, you’re IT”
Brad Fuhr, your K-Gay Desert Guide
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TUE: Duran Duran – Invisible Days Tour
Duran Duran brings their Invisible Days Tour to Acrisure Arena for a one‑night‑only performance on Tuesday, December 30 at 7:30 pm. Following a summer of sold‑out stadiums across Europe, the band will deliver a dazzling set of timeless hits like “Rio” and “Ordinary World,” alongside fresh tracks recorded with Nile Rodgers at Abbey Road Studios. This exclusive U.S. show is a rare chance to ring in the new year with one of pop’s most iconic acts. Get tickets
WED: The Journals of Adam & Eve
Start your New Year’s Eve evening with a special 5 pm performance of The Journals of Adam & Eve at The Plaza Theatre on Wednesday, December 31. This new comedy from nine‑time Emmy winner Ed. Weinberger follows the world’s first couple from Eden to parenthood, brought to life by TV legends Hal Linden and Sally Struthers for a funny, heartfelt evening to close out the year. Get tickets
NEW YEAR’S EVE
New Year’s Eve: Studio 2026 Glam Disco Party
Ring in the new year with sparkle and soul at the Ace Hotel as it transforms into Studio 2026 on Wednesday, December 31 at 9 pm. Dance all night to DJ Sean Patrick’s curated mix of Studio 54 classics, modern disco edits, and glitter-drenched anthems. Guests will enjoy welcome cocktails, drink tickets, a champagne toast at midnight, party favors, glam dress-up bar, photo moments, and a dazzling confetti drop. Don’t miss the Best-Dressed Disco Glam competition for a chance to win deluxe prizes and be crowned the Studio 2026 Style Icon of the Year. Get tickets
THRESHOLD
THRESHOLD arrives as Palm Springs’ newest signature New Year’s Eve experience, transforming The 4707 into an immersive, SOLD-OUT celebration starting at 8 pm on Wednesday, December 31 and limited to just 200 guests. With three distinct lounges, premium hospitality, elevated culinary offerings, and a midnight ritual designed to set the tone for the year ahead, this event promises a sophisticated alternative to the typical NYE scene. Get tickets
KC and the Sunshine Band + Sister Sledge
KC and The Sunshine Band are set to give a SOLD-OUT one‑night‑only performance at The Show. On Wednesday, December 31 at 8 pm, the legendary group celebrates 50 years of funk and R&B with hits like “Get Down Tonight” and “Shake Your Booty.” Joining them is Sister Sledge featuring Sledgendary, bringing iconic anthems such as “We Are Family” to the stage for a disco-fueled celebration. Get tickets
NYE at The Purple Room
The Purple Room Supper Club invites guests to celebrate New Year’s Eve in style with two exclusive dinner shows. On Wednesday, December 31 at 5 pm and 7:30 pm, Jazz Legend Rose Mallett and her band set the tone for an elegant evening paired with a three‑course menu. At 10 pm, the celebration continues with a Rat Pack‑era performance by Darci Daniels, Charles Herrera, andMichael Holmes with the Kevin Tokarz Trio, culminating in a midnight countdown and champagne toast. Guests will savor dishes like Filet Mignon Oscar, New Zealand Lamb Chops, Duck Confit, Seared Branzino, and Saffron Truffle Risotto as they ring in the new year surrounded by music, glamour, and festive cheer. RSVP Today
Carnival NYE with Brothers of the Desert
Celebrate the arrival of a new year with Brothers of the Desert at their Carnival in Palm Springs New Year’s Eve Gala and Fundraiser at the Riviera Resort and Spa. On Wednesday, December 31 from 7:30 pm–1 am, guests will enjoy live music, dancing, dinner, wine, and a midnight champagne toast, all while supporting scholarships and educational programs that empower future leaders in the Coachella Valley. Hosted by comedian Kimberly Clark and featuring DJ Space, this evening promises joy, laughter, and community connection in your best “carnival festive” attire. Get tickets
Dance Beneath the Desert Glow
The Palm Springs Surf Club invites guests to Dance Beneath the Desert Glow at its New Year’s Eve celebration, “A Night to Dine, Dance & Shine.” On Wednesday, December 31 with dinner seatings at 5:30 pm and 7:30 pm, the Beach Ballroom transforms into a golden-hour-inspired oasis featuring refined dining, live music, a DJ, and a champagne-lit countdown. With resort formal attire and shimmering desert ambiance, this elevated evening is pure festive elegance. Get tickets
NYE with the Firebirds
The Coachella Valley Firebirds close out the year in high-energy style with their New Year’s Eve Showdown against theBakersfield Condors on Wednesday, December 31 at 5 pm at Acrisure Arena. Fans can ring in the night with party favors, a roaring crowd, and the largest indoor fireworks display in the Coachella Valley, making this one of the most dynamic and crowd‑pleasing games of the season. Get tickets
Magic of Lights
The holiday season sparkle through the end of the year as Magic of Lights illuminates the Empire Polo Club in Indio through Wednesday, December 31. Families can enjoy a twinkling 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
FRI: Palm Springs International Film Festival Begins
The Palm Springs International Film Festival returns Friday–Sunday, January 2–12, transforming the city into a global showcase for cinema with 168–169 films from more than 70 countries, including 53 premieres and 44 International Feature Film Oscar submissions. With Opening Night featuring Calle Malaga and Closing Night presenting Glenrothan, the festival offers audiences an extraordinary range of storytelling across multiple venues, including the newly added Plaza Theatre. For those wishing to attend screenings, the festival provides a variety of options, from individual tickets to multi‑film passes, allowing attendees to curate their own experience across the 11‑day schedule. Get tickets
Holidays at the Tram
Celebrate the season at the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway with special holiday hours through Sunday, January 4, with the first tram up at 8 am and last tram down at 9:30 pm. On 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, make your reservations at Peaks Restaurant.
FRI–SUN: Paul Anka
Paul Anka returns to the McCallum Theatre for a three‑performance engagement of All The Hits: His Way Tour, bringing his iconic voice and timeless catalog to the desert. Audiences can experience his legendary showmanship on Friday, January 2 at 8 pm, Saturday, January 3 at 8 pm, and Sunday, January 4 at 3 pm. It’s a rare chance to hear the songs and stories that shaped one of music’s most enduring careers. Get tickets.
