Like two freight trains running down parallel tracks, Palm Springs Pride and the 2024 elections are barreling down on us and are just 60-some days away. Labor Day weekend is the typical end of summer and historical start of the election cycle.
And there is one thing that elections and Pride have in common – carpetbaggers. One could peg that title on Rep. Ken Calvert, who has little connection to the Coachella Valley, and has an abysmal record on LGBTQ rights and legislation.
Then there are the promoters who are already selling tickets and advertising their Dance parties and events over Palm Springs Pride® weekend. Notice I use the ‘®’ as both that name and Greater Palm Springs Pride® are registered trademarks of the pride organization. It’s like the Good Housekeeping Seal of Approval that those of us of a certain age remember…
Why is that important? As a non-profit, Palm Springs Pride relies on sponsorship dollars from large companies to smaller fellow non-profits. Those dollars fund the extraordinary expenses that are incurred – from security to city services, performers to porta-potties.
When you see that an event is an official Palm Springs Pride activity, it means that group has paid to be a sponsor and supporter of Palm Springs Pride.
So when you see carpetbagging promoters advertising their “Pride” weekend events, it’s worth asking the question: Are they an official Palm Springs Pride® sponsor? And what would you rather support? We’re firmly committed to promote official Pride events on KGAY & Gay Desert Guide.
Brad Fuhr, your Gay Desert Guide on KGAY 106.5 Palm Springs
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Thompson Hotel Opening
The Thompson Hotel, located on the iconic Palm Canyon Drive, is set to (finally!) open its doors on Thursday, September 5. This chic urban oasis boasts 168 beautifully appointed rooms, including 18 superior suites, all with balconies or patios offering stunning views of the desert and mountains. The hotel features two outdoor pools, including an adults-only pool, and a variety of dining options. The highlight is the Lola Rose Grand Mezze restaurant, which offers a unique blend of Mediterranean cuisine and local California ingredients. With over 35,000 square feet of retail space, including a Hall Napa Valley tasting room, the Thompson Hotel promises to be a vibrant addition to the Palm Springs scene! More info
Positive Life Series: Identity Grief
Join the Positive Life Series for Identity Grief – What if There Was a Cure?, a transformative evening on Tuesday, September 3 at 6 pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center. Renowned therapist Brent Heinze, LPCC, will delve into the profound topic of identity grief, exploring its impact on individuals living with HIV. Whether you’re personally affected by identity grief or simply seeking a deeper understanding, this event offers a valuable opportunity for connection, learning, and community. Don’t miss out on this insightful discussion and enjoy a delicious pizza party afterward! More info
Ask a Gay Doc Ep 12: Male Performance Enhancement Supplements
Dr. Renzo Corzano and KGAY’s John Taylor are answering your health-related questions in the Ask A Gay Doc series, sponsored by Desert Oasis Healthcare. In Episode 12, John and Dr. Corzano discuss the risks of over-the-counter male performance enhancement supplements. Do they work? Are they safe? Watch the Ask a Gay Doc series, and find out how you can submit your own questions, on the Ask a Gay Doc page at kgaypalmsprings.com.
The Purple Room Weekday Entertainment
The Purple Room in Palm Springs has a new live entertainment schedule on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday evenings: Jazz Happy Hour will run from 4–6 pm, followed by dinner and music from 6–9:30 pm. Reservations are recommended for dinner. The lineup includes Rose Mallet, a “Living Jazz Legend,” on Tuesdays; a Rat Pack Era celebration with Darci Daniels, Charles Herrera, and Michael Holmes on Wednesdays; and the versatile performer Sharon Sills on Thursdays. Chris Bennett and Kevin Tokarz will play during Happy Hour on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and Wednesdays, respectively. Also weekend shows each Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Get tickets
Sordid Lives at Palm Springs Cultural Center
Get ready for a hilarious and heartwarming ride with the 2000 film Sordid Lives. This cult classic with an enduring popularity in Palm Springs is showing this Friday, Saturday & Sunday at 6:30 pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center. Celebrate this comedic twist on a story of unconditional love, acceptance and “coming out” in a Texas family. The eccentric cast of characters come together when their intertwining lives prepare for the funeral of the family matriarch. Grab your friends and enjoy a night of laughter! Get tickets
ALSO THIS WEEK
Wednesday, September 4
Volunteer for Will Rollins for Congress | 10–12 pm
First Wednesday Art Walk at Kee Gallery | 5–7 pm in the Backstreet Art District
PALS Circle | 6–7 pm on Zoom
BoneThumpers – blues for your soul | 7 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs
Thursday, September 5
Phat Cat Swinger | 7 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs
Villagefest | 7–10 pm along Palm Canyon Drive
Friday, September 6
Hitchcock Retrospective: To Catch A Thief | 7 pm at Palm Springs Cultural Center
Country Dance Fridays: Codigo Line Dance with Kyle Young | 7 pm at Step by Step
Saturday, September 7
Palm Springs Certified Farmers’ Market | 8 am–1 pm indoors at the Palm Springs Pavilion
Allyship & Beyond – 3rd Annual Diversity & Racial Equity Conference | 9 am–12:30 pm at the Palm Springs Convention Center
Sunday, September 8
Oscar’s Sunday T-Dance | 3 pm (new start time)
