What a world! My friends and I often say that phrase when lamenting the latest Trumposity or rolling our eyes at an inappropriate social media post. But rarely is it a positive thing.
So that’s why the phrase is being uttered more and more in our circle of friends. A group of us are on our way to another part of the world — Europe — where that phrase will take on new meaning.
Summer travel is a hallmark of living in the desert. Most everyone wants to escape the heat, even if only up the tramway or to Big Bear. Our “what a world” will take us to the Netherlands and Belgium, ending at Amsterdam Pride with BearCruise.com. It’s become somewhat of a tradition for me to be at Amsterdam Pride, and I am hoping that my luck will continue next year when World Pride comes to the fabled city.
This year, I’ll leave my USA-related t-shirts behind (but of course I’ll take my “Say KGAY” shirt!) I just don’t want to be pegged as a visitor from this country in this moment. That’s a sad state of affairs and one that our group will lament as we observe their world from our perspective.
P.S. Congrats to Gary Saperstein for another successful and intoxicating Gay Wine Weekend. It’s always great to get away to wine country, see old friends and know that the proceeds support Sonoma County’s AIDS service organization, Face to Face. Like most non-profits, they are facing funding challenges too.
Brad Fuhr, your K-Gay Desert Guide
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TUE: Tolerance Education Center Film Series – Unspoken
On Tuesday, July 22 at 6 pm, the Tolerance Education Center presents Unspoken as part of its Summer Film Series. This moving narrative follows a closeted religious teen who uncovers a pre-Holocaust love letter between his grandfather and another man—sparking a journey of self-discovery, identity, and intergenerational connection. With its poignant blend of history and personal truth, Unspoken invites viewers to reflect on the enduring power of love and legacy. More info
TUE & THU: CVRep Summer Cabaret Series
The CVRep Summer Cabaret Series continues this week with two exciting performances! Enjoy an electrifying evening of live entertainment every Tuesday and Thursday at 7 pm at CVRep in Cathedral City. This week, it’s David Burnham on Tuesday, July 22, and Jeff Harnar on Thursday, July 24. The series runs through July 31, offering a variety of world-class talent. Get tickets
WED: The Center Social
Join The LGBTQ Community Center of The Desert for its July Center Social on Wednesday, July 23 from 5:30–7 pm at Willie’s Modern Fare in Rancho Mirage. This month’s event is proudly sponsored by KMEE 103.1 MeTV FM and promises an evening of lively conversation, community connections, and delicious happy hour offerings. With limited capacity at this popular venue, early registration is required. Come mingle, make memories, and enjoy a summer evening among friends. Register now
THU: Trans Rights Political Forum
Join the Transgender Health & Wellness Center on Thursday, July 24 from 6–7:30 pm at the Mizell Center for an essential discussion on Executive Order 14168. This free political forum provides a safe space for transgender, nonbinary, and intersex voices to be heard, uniting the community in response to legislation that threatens fundamental rights. Featuring civil rights advocates and local leaders, the evening centers on solidarity, education, and collective action toward a more inclusive future. More info
THU: Taste of Summer Rancho Mirage Begins
Taste of Summer Rancho Mirage returns Thursday, July 24–Sunday, August 17, serving up three weeks of mouthwatering deals and community spirit. With a $10 wristband—available from the Rancho Mirage Chamber of Commerce or participating nonprofits—you’ll unlock exclusive specials at dozens of local restaurants. Whether you’re craving upscale dining, casual bites, or sweet indulgences, this culinary celebration offers something for every taste—all while supporting vital nonprofit programs across the Coachella Valley. More info
THU: Cocktail Cinema – But I’m A Cheerleader
Cocktail Cinema returns on Thursday, July 24 with a screening of But I’m a Cheerleader at 6 pm in the Annenberg Theater at the Palm Springs Art Museum (Cocktail hour starts at 5 pm with specialty drinks by Livs Palm Springs). This pastel-hued cult classic follows Megan, a high school cheerleader sent to a conversion therapy camp, where she hilariously—and poignantly—discovers love, identity, and the power of chosen family. With standout performances by Natasha Lyonne, Clea DuVall, and RuPaul, this satirical gem is a must-see celebration of queer resilience and self-discovery. More info
FRI: The Psychedelic Furs
Catch post-punk legends The Psychedelic Furs live on Friday, July 25 at 8 pm at The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa in Rancho Mirage. With iconic hits like “Pretty in Pink,” “Love My Way,” and “The Ghost in You,” this influential band brings decades of raw energy and romantic edge to the stage. Get tickets
FRI & SAT: The Princess and the Pea
Join the Rancho Mirage Library and Observatory for a delightful evening of youth theatre with The Princess and the Pea on Friday, July 25 from 7–9 pm. This charming comedy, adapted by John O’Hara, follows Prince Pete’s quest for love with help from a quirky cast of royal characters and a stack of mattresses. Admission is free, but tickets are required and limited to four per guest. Presented by Desert Theatricals with support from local foundations. More info
ALSO THIS WEEK
Wednesday, July 23
Blood Drive | 10 am–3 pm at Eisenhower Health
Bariatric Surgery Info w/Bobby Bhasker-Rao, MD | 5:30–7 pm at Eisenhower Health
Hot Spot Bingo with Deven & Ned | 7–8:30 pm at Agua Caliente Cathedral City
Thursday, July 24
Carousel Live Retro Music | 7–8:30 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs
VillageFest Street Fair | 7–10 pm in Downtown Palm Springs
Friday, July 25
Food Truck Fridays | 5–10 pm in Downtown Indio
BearUnion | 8 pm–4 am at Club 541
Saturday, July 26
LGBTQIA Higher Powered OA Meeting | 11:30 am at Sunny Dunes Clubhouse
Country Dance Saturdays: Beginner Shadow with Rob Ollander-Krane | 7 pm at Step by Step
Sunday, July 27
Sunday Stomp Line Dancing | 6–10 pm at Reforma
Guided Hikes | 11 am & 1:30 pm at San Jacinto State Park (Tramway Mountain Station)
