A cursory glance at the “dating apps” for gay men and it’s no wonder that STIs and STDs continue to flourish in the Coachella Valley.
Every weekend there’s a huge influx of visitors from all over the world to the Coachella Valley. In the course of year, over 14 million people visit the Coachella Valley; over 6 million stay overnight.
That’s a lot of opportunity for hanky-panky.
In the aftermath, sexually transmitted infections come and go among our residents and long term guests. That means a strain on a healthcare system that for the most part doesn’t grapple with the enormity of the situation.
Desert AIDS Project took the bull by the horns a decade ago with its “Get Tested Coachella Valley” Progam. But with the absorption of Borrego Health, their focus has changed. Filling the void is PS Test, who operates on a shoestring budget and relies on donations since their grant funding recently went away.
I sit on their board of directors and wanted to invite you to Thursday’s PS Test Fest at Toucans. We’ve secured dozens of silent auction donations for you to bid on while enjoying cocktails and some entertainment. I hope you’ll stop by and help support PS Test, and take advantage of their services should the occasion arise…
Brad Fuhr, your Gay Desert Guide on KGAY 106.5 Palm Springs
For the latest, follow our socials @GayDesertGuide and @KGAY1065 and listen to KGAY Palm Springs wherever you may reside!
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Rock the Park: Fleetwood Mac Tribute
It’s the first Wednesday of the month and time to Rock the Park on Wednesday, February 5 at 7 pm when Twisted Gypsy, a Fleetwood Mac Tribute band, takes the stage at the Downtown Palm Springs Park. Don’t miss out on the classic melodies and energetic performance that will transport you back to the golden era of rock. Grab your friends, family, and a cozy blanket and be part of this musical celebration under the stars. More info
PS Test Fest
Join PS Test for an evening of health and community at PS Test Fest on Thursday, February 6 from 5:30–7:30 pm at Toucans. PS Test is a nonprofit dedicated to sexual health and this event aims to support their mission of providing free, anonymous, and confidential STI testing and treatment, along with vital sexual health education to communities in Riverside County and beyond. The evening will feature a silent auction, with proceeds helping to continue their important work. More info
Meet Patrick Evans & Discover Norway at The Purple Room
Join 103.1 MeTV FM’s Patrick Evans at The Purple Room Supper Club on Monday, February 3, from 4:30–6 pm for an exciting event where you’ll get the chance to learn how you can join him on the upcoming Tour of Norway. Scheduled for July 25 to August 2, 2025, this journey promises breathtaking landscapes, majestic mountains, glacial fjords, and legendary sights, including the iconic Oslo and charming towns of Bergen and Loen. Patrick Evans and a Collette representative will be on hand to share details and answer any questions. More info
Positive Life Series: Nutrition and HIV
On Tuesday, February 4, the Positive Life Series will feature a discussion on Nutrition and HIV, led by Charlie Mueller, RD. This insightful event will take place at 6 pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center (also on Zoom). Note that this month’s series is scheduled later than usual due to the Palm Springs Film Festival. Join in to gain valuable knowledge and support in addressing this important health topic. Upcoming topics include: Neurological Complicaitons of HIV (Mar 4), Anal Cancer Screening (Apr 1), CROI Update (May 6), and Body Dysmorphia (Jun 2). More info
Stephen Harper, Former P.M. of Canada
The Desert Town Hall Speaker Series continues at the Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa on Friday, February 7 at 5 pm. This month’s distinguished speaker is Stephen J. Harper, former Prime Minister of Canada, who will share his insights on geopolitical, economic, and security challenges. Harper, who led Canada for nearly a decade, is also the founder and CEO of Harper & Associates and a renowned author and speaker. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from one of the world’s leading political figures and engage in intellectual discussions. Get tickets
This Week at the McCallum Theatre
This week at the McCallum Theatre promises a diverse and captivating lineup of performances. On Monday, February 3 at 7 pm, Jazz at Lincoln Center Presents: New Orleans Songbook brings the soul of New Orleans to Palm Desert, celebrating the city’s historic jazz composers and timeless songs with infectious energy. On Thursday, February 6 at 7 pm, GRAMMY Award-winning vocalist Steve Tyrell returns to the McCallum Theatre after a three-year hiatus, performing his unique renditions of classic pop standards. Finally, on Friday and Saturday, February 7 & 8 at 7:30 pm, A Night on the Red Carpet features the McCallum Theatre Orchestra under the direction of GRAMMY Award-winning Maestro Richard Kaufman, performing iconic music from Oscar-nominated and Oscar-winning films. Get tickets
Perfect Arrangement
THE BENT presents Perfect Arrangement from February 6–16 at the Palm Springs Cultural Center. Inspired by the true story of the earliest stirrings of the gay rights movement. This hard to believe but historically accurate tale merges madcap sitcom-style laughs with provocative drama as two closeted U.S. State Department employees struggle to maintain their cover – and their sanity – in 1950s America, a world recently depicted in Matt Bomer’s Fellow Travelers. These married co-workers not only share a secret, they are also next door neighbors who share a wall. Get tickets
Desert Art Center Mid Mod Show
Celebrate the elegance of mid-century modernism at the Desert Art Center Mid Mod Show from February 7–23 during Modernism Week in Palm Springs. Join on Friday, February 7, from 5–7 pm for the opening of this vibrant exhibition that showcases contemporary and retro-inspired art reflecting the sleek lines, dynamic patterns, and timeless charm of the mid-century era. This event brings the spirit of innovation and creativity of the mid-century movement to life for a modern audience. More info
Black History Month Kick-off at the PS Art Museum
Celebrate the start of Black History Month at the Palm Springs Art Museum on Thursday, February 6 from 5:30–8 pm. Enjoy an evening filled with music and art, featuring performances by the Palm Springs High School Choir and Strings, along with a special Black History Month mural by artist Tysen Knight. Explore the museum’s exhibitions and connect with the vibrant Black community in this inspiring kickoff event. More info
Cinema Francais
Immerse yourself in the world of French cinema at Cinema Français hosted by the Palm Springs Cultural Center. Starting on Thursday, February 6 at 7 pm with the screening of The Marching Band, this four-day festival features new, award-winning French films—all Palm Springs premieres. Enjoy eight features and shorts in French with English subtitles, showcasing the best of contemporary French filmmaking. Get tickets
Legally Blonde The Musical
Desert Theatreworks presents Legally Blonde The Musical from January 17–February 9. Follow Elle Woods as she takes on Harvard Law, fueled by the desire to win back her ex-boyfriend. With infectious energy and catchy tunes, the show captures Elle’s journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Along the way, she faces challenges from peers, professors, and her former flame, but with the help of newfound friends, she proves her resilience and determination. Get tickets
Honky Tonk Angels
Desert Theatreworks presents Honky Tonk Angels, a musical extravaganza, from February 1–March 30 at the Black Box Theatre. This lively show features three fearless women from diverse backgrounds chasing their dreams to Nashville. With 30 timeless country hits like “Stand By Your Man,” “9 to 5,” and “Harper Valley PTA,” this toe-tapping journey celebrates sisterhood, resilience, and the power of music. Get tickets
ALSO THIS WEEK
Tuesday, February 4
Boston Brass Live in Concert | 7 pm at Richards Center for the Arts
Wednesday, February 5
Prescott Preserve Guided Hike | 10–11 am at Prescott Preserve Loop
Mizell Business Partner Expo | 10:30 am–1:30 pm at Mizell Center
Rancho Mirage Writers Festival | Wed, Thu & Fri at Rancho Mirage Library & Observatory
February Art Walk at Kee Gallery | 5–7 pm at Backstreet Art District
Emmet Cahill in Concert | 7 pm at St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church
Thursday, February 6
Artists Council Exhibition Opening Reception | 5–7 pm at Artists Center, Palm Desert
Friday, February 7
Palm Springs Readers’ Festival | Fri, Sat, Sun at Hotel Zoso
International Desert Conservation Summit | Fri, Sat, Sun at The Living Desert
Saturday, February 8
Dr. George Charity Car Show | 9 am–3 pm at Indian Wells Tennis Garden
Quarterly Art Exhibit | Sat. & Sun. from 10 am–4 pm at Cathedral City Public Library
3rd Annual Lunar Fest at The River | 11 am–6 pm
Country Dance Saturdays: Beginner East Coast Swing with Lise Baadh | 7 pm at Step by Step
Smokey Robinson Legacy Tour | 8 pm at The Show
Sunday, February 9
Desert Winds Jazz Band Gala Fundraiser | 11–1:30 pm
PSLOD Desert Bloom 2 | 12–5 pm at Club 541
PS Concerts: The Euclid Quartet | 1 pm at Richards Center for the Arts
