FreedomFest showed up on the Gay Desert Guide calendar, the work of my editorial team. I know most everything coming to town well in advance and we are always vigilant to make sure our events page is up to date. But this one caught me off guard.
It’s touted as “The world’s largest gathering of Free Minds” according to the Washington Post. Steve Forbes is a co-ambassador. Adam Corolla, a former Palm Springs radio host, is on the agenda. Kennedy is an emcee. So the event is really a bunch of libertarians gathering under the sun and fun of Palm Springs this week.
There’s even a few anarchists and a sliver of progressive/democrats who attend.
Brad Fuhr, your K-Gay Desert Guide
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WEEKEND PREVIEW: Big Gay BBQ in the Arenas District
Get ready to usher in summer at the biggest and most fabulous BIG Gay BBQ in the Arenas District! This free community event brings delicious BBQ, beverages, live music, and fun backyard games. Join the festivities on Saturday, June 14 from 3–10 pm and Sunday, June 15 from 3–7 pm. Live music from Radio Ready will be on stage both days and KGAY’s Modgirl will be featured on Sunday from 3–4:30 pm. Plus, flow-art will be showcased by Desert Flaggers! Come with friends, enjoy the finger-lickin’ food from various vendors, you’ll also have the opportunity to make a contribution and support Palm Springs Pride, which in the current political climate needs your help even more! More info
MON: Hot Spot Trivia with Deven & Ned
Test your wits and win big at Hot Spot Trivia with Deven Green & Handsome Ned on Mondays from 7–8:30 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs! Featuring eight fast-paced rounds, interactive games, celebrity face challenges, word scrambles, and music madness, this all-digital trivia showdown keeps the competition fierce and the laughs rolling. More info
TUE: GVCC Annual Installation and Business Awards Dinner
Join the Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce (GVCC) for their Annual Installation and Business Awards Dinner on Tuesday, June 10 from 5:30–8:30 pm. Held at the Renaissance Esmeralda Resort in Indian Wells, this prestigious event will honor outstanding leaders in the community. This year’s recipients include Ernesto Rosales for the Chairman John A. James Lifetime Achievement Award and Palm Springs International Airport for the Public Impact Award. More info
WED: Hot Spot Bingo with Deven & Ned
Spice up your Wednesdays with Hot Spot Bingo at Agave Caliente Tequila Bar inside Agua Caliente Casino Cathedral City! Hosted by the hilarious Deven Green & Handsome Ned from 7-8:30 pm, this free digital bingo party blends comedy, music, and big prizes for an unforgettable night. Play on your phone, laugh out loud, and win big. More info
STARTS WED: FreedomFest Palm Springs: “Oasis of Liberty”
Join the “World’s Largest Gathering of Free Minds” at FreedomFest Palm Springs: “Oasis of Liberty,” from Wednesday, June 11–Saturday, June 14 at the Palm Springs Convention Center. This annual event, featuring over 100 sessions, 200+ speakers, and 2000+ attendees, offers a unique getaway to a culture of liberty and optimism. Hear from keynote speakers like Steve Forbes, Kennedy, Kat Timpf, and Adam Carolla, and immerse yourself in big ideas and great people. Get tickets
Rescheduled to September 20: Rod Stewart
Please note, Sir Rod Stewart‘s performance originally scheduled for Thursday, June 12 has been rescheduled due to illness. Now you can catch his distinctive voice and energetic stage presence on Saturday, September 20 at 8 pm. All tickets previously purchased will remain valid for the new date. The Grammy Living Legend and Rock and Roll Hall of Famer brings his spectacular live performance to The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa for a night spanning over 50 years of hits across rock, folk, R&B, and American Standards. Get tickets
FRI: Safe in the Streets: Community Mixer and Safety Talk
Join neighbors for Safe in the Streets, a free community mixer and safety talk at the Palm Canyon Mobile Club Clubhouse on Friday, June 13 from 5–6:30 pm. This timely event will feature presentations from Officer Brook Edney of the Palm Springs Police Department and Brent Heinze from the Safety Blows campaign, offering practical guidance on public safety amidst rising targeted violence. Beyond valuable insights, attendees can connect with fellow community members over complimentary cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, fostering a safer and more inclusive environment. More info
FRI: It’s Me, Charlie – Cabaret Edition
Get ready for an unforgettable evening of music and entertainment with “It’s Me, CHARLIE! Cabaret Edition” at Revolution Stage Company on Friday, June 13 from 7–9 pm. Acclaimed singer Charlie Brown, joined by legendary Musical Director Michael Orland, brings his signature charm and powerhouse voice to a dynamic setlist spanning pop, blues, and Broadway, all with dazzling cabaret flair. Get tickets
STARTS FRI: Raising the Steaks with Chef David Burke
Prepare for an unforgettable culinary experience at The Steakhouse at Agua Caliente Rancho Mirage, as acclaimed Chef David Burke brings his signature creativity to the Raising the Steaks dining event. From Friday, June 13–Thursday, June 26, join Chef Burke and Chef Juan Morales for an exclusive collaboration that blends the best of culinary worlds, offering a one-of-a-kind menu celebrating innovation, technique, and the finest cuts of steak. Reserve today
Private Tours of The Shag House
Step into The Shag House for a private tour with Brandon, where you’ll feel like you’ve stepped straight into a life-size Shag painting! Explore every vibrant, retro-inspired corner at your own pace—just you and your guests, no crowds. Select a date from now through Sunday, June 15 and experience the magic behind the green gates in this fully immersive space! Get tickets
ALSO THIS WEEK
Monday, June 9
Monday Night Bingo with Bella da Ball | 7–9 pm at the Ace Hotel
Tuesday, June 10
Angels Pride Night 2025 | 4–10 pm at Angel Stadium, Anaheim
Thursday, June 12
VillageFest Street Fair | 7–10 pm in Downtown Palm Springs
Carousel Live Retro Music | 7–8:30 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs
Friday, June 13
Food Truck Fridays | 5–10 pm in Downtown Indio
Sat & Sun, June 14 & 15
Sacramento Pride | Pride March Sunday at 11 am at Southside Park
Saturday, June 14
The Time It Takes (Italy/France) One-time film screening | 10 am at Palm Springs Cultural Center
Martinis & Bellinis Garden Cocktail and Tea Party Benefit | 3–5 pm at Cache Estate, Indio
Beyond the Pages – The Day Before I Died | 4–6 pm at Coachella Library
Country Dance Saturdays: Beginner Two Step with Rob Ollander-Krane | 7 pm at Step by Step
Sunday, June 15
Family + at the Palm Springs Art Museum | 12–4 pm
Sunday Stomp Line Dancing | 6–10 pm at Reforma
For all events go to the GayDesertGuide.com
