Our community comes together at the drop of a hat for each other. Whether it’s a black tie gala or a drag bingo, the needs are always there. And people show up and put out ($$ wise) for a good cause.
Case in point, Shann Carr’s labor of love: The annual CV LipSync Battle that packed the Palm Springs Cultural Center on Saturday night. The top prize of $1,000 went to Cathedral City’s LGBTQ Days group, with L-Fund and the Friends of the Desert Mountains taking 2nd and 3rd place.
Shann’s devotion to this “Waiting for Guffman” style event is something to behold and to celebrate. If you missed it, local groups spend the summer getting their act together – literally – to perform a choreographed number in front of the community. Last year, I was a most-handsome man singing The Chiffon’s “He’s So Fine” in drag. Yes, it’s that kind of fun and embarrassment for many of us.
Shann has led our community in many endeavors from “Art in the Park in the Dark” to a stint on the KGAY morning show and the #ILoveGayPalmSprings Podcast during COVID. She’s what we call a local treasure who helps keep us smiling, laughing and willing to support her vision.
And with everything happening in Trump world today, we need more Shann’s!
Brad Fuhr, your K-Gay Desert Guide
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MON: Auditions for the Modern Men Chorus
Modern Men – Coachella Valley Men’s Chorus invites singers to audition for its 12th season and upcoming holiday concert, Cool Yule. An open rehearsal will be held Monday, September 8 from 6:30–8:30 pm, with auditions beginning at 8:30 pm. A second audition opportunity will take place Saturday, September 13 at 11 am. Tenors are especially encouraged, though all voice parts are welcome. This is a chance to join a vibrant musical community and help bring harmony to the desert. More info
TUE: PS Library Ribbon-Cutting of Temporary Location
The Palm Springs Public Library hosts a ribbon cutting on Tuesday, September 9 from 9:45–10 am to celebrate the opening of its temporary location during the renovation project. Mayor Ron deHarte will deliver remarks before the ribbon is officially cut at 10 am. Guests are invited to explore the new space, sign up for a library card in honor of National Library Card Sign-Up Month, and enjoy light refreshments while available. City leaders, Library Board members, and community partners will be in attendance. More info
TUE: Positive Life Series – “Physicology”
Discover the transformative power of the mind–body connection at Positive Life Series – “Physicology”: Mind Body Connection in Health, happening Tuesday, September 9 from 6–9 pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center/Camelot Theatre. Created by Michael Koth, PhD, the Physicology program offers fresh insights into holistic well-being and the science behind mental and physical harmony. Come curious, leave inspired. More info
WED: The Righteous Brothers
The Righteous Brothers bring their Lovin’ Feelin’ Farewell Tour to McCallum Theatre on Wednesday, September 10 at 7 pm. This soul-stirring concert celebrates decades of iconic hits, from the birth of Blue-Eyed Soul to unforgettable moments like Dirty Dancing. Get tickets
THU: 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony
Join the Palm Springs Fire Department for the Never Forget 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony on Thursday, September 11 at Station #2, 300 N. El Cielo Rd. Arrive by 8:15 am for the 8:30 am ceremony honoring the lives lost and the brave responders of that day. This brief but powerful gathering invites our community to reflect, remember, and stand together in unity. Coffee and donuts will be served following the ceremony at 9 am. All are welcome. More info
THU & FRI: Healthy Desert, Healthy You! Environmental Health Summit
The Desert Healthcare District & Foundation is hosting the Healthy Desert, Healthy You Environmental Health Summit, a two-day event at The Westin Rancho Mirage Golf Resort & Spa on Thursday and Friday, September 11 and 12. The summit is free to the public, but registration is required. Attendees will hear from keynote speaker Andrea Vidaurre, a policy analyst and one of TIME magazine’s 100 most influential people. The event will also feature panels and experts on community well-being, discussing topics such as clean water and the Salton Sea. New this year, environmental tours will be offered on the second day. More info
FRI: RM Chamber Annual Marketing Summit
Sharpen your strategy and connect with fellow innovators at the Rancho Mirage Chamber of Commerce Annual Marketing Summit, happening Friday, September 12 from 8:30 am–12:30 pm at the Rancho Mirage Library and Observatory. Dive into expert-led sessions on AI, branding, nonprofit outreach, and media tools—from Canva to press releases and local TV/radio. Admission includes coffee, refreshments, and a boxed lunch. Proudly supported by KGAY as media sponsor, this half-day summit is your gateway to fresh insights and powerful connections in the ever-evolving marketing landscape. More info
FRI: All Valley Mayors, County and Tribal Chairpersons Luncheon
The Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce presents the Annual All Valley Mayors, County and Tribal Chairpersons Luncheon on Friday, September 12 from 10:30 am–12 pm at Renaissance Indian Wells Resort & Spa. This exclusive event brings together all nine Valley Mayors, the County Supervisor, and Tribal Chairs to discuss key issues impacting the region’s business community, including tax policy, emerging industries, and economic outlook. More info
FRI: Billy Idol
Rock icon Billy Idol returns to the desert with “It’s a Nice Day To…Tour Again!” at Acrisure Arena on Friday, September 12 at 7:30 pm. Joining him for this electrifying night is fellow legend Joan Jett & the Blackhearts. Idol’s recent milestones include the 40th anniversary of Rebel Yell, a Rock & Roll Hall of Fame appearance, and the release of Billy Idol: State Line, a concert film capturing his historic performance at the Hoover Dam. Get tickets
Greater Palm Springs Spa Month
Greater Palm Springs Spa Month is underway, offering a full month of rejuvenating wellness experiences across the valley’s most celebrated resorts and spas. Check our video short for a Spa Month sneak peek with Brad. With over 100 indulgent deals now available, visitors can enjoy discounted facials, massage treatments, overnight spa packages, and yoga passes—each thoughtfully crafted to help guests relax, recharge, and embrace the healing energy of the desert. Whether you’re seeking a solo escape or a shared retreat, Spa Month is the perfect invitation to unwind. Advance reservations are strongly recommended. More info
Tramway Annual Maintenance
The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is closed for annual preventative maintenance from Monday, September 8 through Sunday, October 12, with a tentative reopening scheduled for Monday, October 13 at 10 am. The last day to ride before the closure is Sunday, September 7. This year’s maintenance includes rebuilding the carriage on cabin one, replacing the counter haul rope, and conducting state-permit testing and control system servicing by Switzerland-based technicians.
ALSO THIS WEEK
Monday, September 8
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, September 10
Hot Spot Bingo with Deven & Ned | 7–8:30 pm at Agua Caliente Cathedral City
Thursday, September 11
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, September 12
Rancho Mirage Chamber Annual Marketing Summit | 8:30 am–12:30 pm at RM Library
Drag Bingo/Trivia Nights (alternating) | 4:30–7 pm at Arrive Hotel
Food Truck Fridays | 5–10 pm in Downtown Indio
Saturday, September 13
Solar Sessions at Royal Sun Palm Springs | 12–6 pm
