Prides under attack! That’s what happened recently as Pride in Abilene Texas persevered after threats of violence from a right winger Joshua Cook.
Meanwhile in Durham, NC over the weekend, their Pride went on as well after threats and a funding shortfall. The county had pulled funding for the event, fearing retribution from the Trump administration. A county official was joined by “American Idol” singer Clay Aiken in raising money to keep the event going.
Cole, the Texas man who made the Abilene threat, was arrested by the FBI for his Facebook threats to shoot people at a Pride Parade on Sept. 20.
“Fk their parade, I say we lock and load and pay them back for taking out Charlie Kirk,” Cole allegedly wrote, referring to the right-wing political activist, in one comment. Cole could face up to five years in prison for the threat, if convicted.
Our law enforcement brigade will be out in full force around Greater Palm Springs Pride activities that start in late October and carry through the Pride parade on Nov. 9 in downtown Palm Springs. With Chief Andy Mills at the helm, I’m feeling as protected as one can in today’s political environment.
Mills also implores us to ‘say something if we see something’. “We will not be silenced”, reads a t-shirt that I’ve proudly worn for years. As the country continues to devolve into authoritarianism, let’s continue to show up and speak out. Silence is not an option.
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MON: Paul McCartney
Sir Paul McCartney launches his Got Back Tour at Acrisure Arena on Monday, September 29 at 8 pm with a sold-out kickoff performance that brings decades of legendary music to the desert. From The Beatles to Wings to solo classics, McCartney’s live show spans generations with timeless hits. This rare opportunity to see one of music’s most iconic figures marks the start of a major U.S. tour, and fans lucky enough to have tickets are in for an unforgettable night. More info
MON: Sandra Bernhard
Sandra Bernhard returns to Oscar’s on Monday, September 29 from 7–9 pm with her latest show, Shapes & Forms—a bold blend of comedy, music, and cultural commentary delivered with her signature edge. Known for her fearless storytelling and magnetic stage presence, Bernhard transforms the evening into a cabaret of wit and insight. Get tickets
WED: L-Fund Virtual Town Hall
The L-Fund invites the community to a virtual Town Hall on Wednesday, October 1 from 5–6:30 pm. This important gathering will explore the future of The L-Fund, including a potential merger with The LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert. Attendees will learn about the organization’s 13-year legacy of supporting lesbians in the region and have the opportunity to ask questions, share feedback, and help shape the next chapter. All are welcome—especially those served by The L-Fund. More info
WED: The Who’s Swan Song
The Who takes their final bow at Acrisure Arena on Wednesday, October 1 from 7–9 pm with The Song is Over—the last public show of their North American Farewell Tour. This event marks a historic moment in rock as Roger Daltrey and Pete Townshend deliver a powerful sendoff packed with iconic anthems, rare deep cuts, and Townshend’s final windmill with their true swan song. Get tickets
STARTS WED: KEE Gallery Latino Heritage Exhibition
KEE Gallery kicks off National Hispanic Heritage Month with its Latino Heritage Exhibition 2025, opening Wednesday, October 1 from 5–7 pm in the Backstreet Art District. This free reception celebrates vibrant works by six Southern California artists alongside gallery founders Kathleen, Ernesto, and Erich. Guests are invited to explore powerful expressions of culture, identity, and community in a welcoming, creative space. The exhibition runs through October 16—don’t miss this inspiring tribute to Latino artistry. More info
WED: Best of Desert Nominations Begin
The Desert Sun’s Best of Desert Community’s Choice Awards Nomination Round kicks off Wednesday, October 1 and runs through Wednesday, October 22. Now’s the time to show love for local favorites in the “Entertainment & Leisure” category—consider nominating DJ Galaxy, DJ Eric Ornelas, and Modgirl for DJ Event/Wedding; John Taylor, Patrick Evans, and Chris Shebel for Radio Personality/Show; and KGAY 106.5/92.7 and 103.1 MeTV FM for Radio Station – Local. Submit nominations daily and if you nominate in 25 or more categories, you’ll be entered to win a $250 gift card. Let’s celebrate the voices, beats, and stations that keep the desert dancing! Nominate here
THU: 2025 Nonprofit Desert Fast Pitch
Join the 2025 Nonprofit Desert Fast Pitch on Thursday, October 2 from 5:30–8 pm at UCR Palm Desert Campus for an evening of impact and inspiration. Watch six nonprofit leaders pitch their missions live for a chance to win over $70,000 in grants, and hear a powerful keynote from author and children’s advocate Elizabeth Smart. Get tickets
STARTS THU: Epson Tour Golf Championship
The Epson Tour Championship returns to Indian Wells Golf Resort from Thursday to Sunday, October 2–5, bringing the season finale of the LPGA’s official qualifying tour to the Coachella Valley. Played on the Celebrity Course, this high-stakes tournament features 108 elite athletes competing for a $250,000 purse and the final chance to earn LPGA Tour cards for 2026. With exclusive viewing decks, pro-am opportunities, and a community-focused atmosphere, the event offers fans a front-row seat to the future stars of women’s golf. More info
THU: Mike Balaban – The Accidental Historian
Step into five decades of queer history, love, and adventure at Mike Balaban: The Accidental Historian, a powerful photo exhibition running October 2–6 at Jaco Moretti Arts in Palm Springs. Balaban’s intimate portraits and travel snapshots chronicle a life lived boldly and authentically. Don’t miss the opening night Q&A on Thursday, October 2 from 5–8 pm—a rare chance to hear the stories behind the lens. More info
THU: VillageFest Starts at 6 pm
Palm Springs VillageFest now kicks off at 6 pm every Thursday, taking advantage of cooler fall temperatures to start the fun an hour earlier. The beloved street fair still runs until 10 pm, offering four hours of shopping, snacking, and strolling under the stars. Come early, stay late, and enjoy the season. More info
FRI: Los Angeles Lakers Preseason Opener
The Los Angeles Lakers return to the Coachella Valley on Friday, October 3 from 7–9:30 pm to kick off their 2025–26 preseason at Acrisure Arena with a high-profile matchup against the Phoenix Suns. The game marks the team’s third consecutive year in the desert, continuing a legacy that dates back to the Showtime era when the valley served as the Lakers’ training camp home. Following back-to-back sold-out appearances, fans can expect a thrilling night of basketball as the Purple and Gold reignite their roots in Greater Palm Springs. Get tickets
STARTS FRI: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
Palm Canyon Theatre invites audiences to step into a world of pure imagination with Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, running October 3–12. This whimsical musical follows Charlie Bucket’s golden-ticket adventure through a magical chocolate factory, bursting with colorful characters and beloved songs. Perfect for all ages, the production promises a sweet escape into a story that celebrates wonder, kindness, and the unexpected. Get tickets
Rumours of Fleetwood Mac
Rumours of Fleetwood Mac takes the stage at The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa on Friday, October 3 at 8 pm for a tribute concert that captures the magic and mystique of one of rock’s most iconic bands. Personally endorsed by Mick Fleetwood, the performance channels the energy and emotion of Fleetwood Mac’s legendary catalog, offering fans a chance to relive timeless hits in a stunning live setting. Get tickets
Vote KGAY and Local Favorites for Best of Coachella Valley!
CV Independent’s Best of Coachella Valley 2025–2026 has opened their Final Round Ballot—Thank you for the incredible support and strong showing in this year’s nominations—now’s the time to vote and help spotlight your favorites to win! Our contenders include: KGAY 106.5 & 92.1 and 103.1 MeTV FM in Life in the Valley > Best Radio Station, John Taylor, Patrick Evans, and Chris Shebel in Life in the Valley > Best Local Radio Personality, and our dynamic DJ trio—DJ Galaxy, DJ Eric Ornelas, and Modgirl—in Arts > Best Local DJ. Nominations will be accepted through Sunday, October 29. Cast your vote today!
ALSO THIS WEEK
Monday, September 29
Monday Night Bingo with Bella da Ball | 7–9 pm at the Ace Hotel
Hot Spot Trivia with Deven & Ned | 7–8:30 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs
Wednesday, October 1
1st Wednesday Art Walk | 5–7 pm at Backstreet Art District
Hot Spot Bingo with Deven & Ned | 7–8:30 pm at Agua Caliente Cathedral City
Thursday, October 2
The Totally Ridiculous Gameshow! | 7–8:30 pm at Dietlart Gallery
Carousel Live Retro Music | 7–8:30 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs
VillageFest Street Fair | 6–10 pm in Downtown Palm Springs
Friday, October 3
Drag Bingo/Trivia Nights (alternating) | 4:30–7 pm at Arrive Hotel
Food Truck Fridays | 5–10 pm in Downtown Indio
Saturday, October 4
Solar Sessions at Royal Sun Palm Springs | 12–6 pm
Country Dance Saturdays: Fireball Line Dance with Andrew Jime
