Erection and construction are in the news in Greater Palm Springs. Erection first…
The Pride Landmark Flagpole will start to break ground shortly at the southwest corner of Arenas and Indian Canyon and Mayor Ron deHarte is pushing for completion in time for Palm Springs Pride and maybe even Leather Pride. The City has approved funding and installing a 65’ landmark flagpole. Only certain flags can be flown with deference to the US Flag at major federal holidays.
Then there’s all the construction buzz happening around Eagle Cathedral City opening this Fall. A preview on Newschannel 3 last night provided an inside look at the renovation — key among them new restrooms. The owners have made it clear that they will follow liquor control laws that got previous owners into hot water. But it also takes a little restraint on our “citizen’s” part — bars are not bath houses.
Our K-Gay Desert Guide team got a sneak peak at a new LGBTQ+ theatre space as The Prism Theatre will open this fall next to Sherman’s Deli in downtown Palm Springs. According to their website, “The Prism Theater is more than just a stage — it’s a place where creativity shines, voices are heard, and everyone belongs”. It’s a new venture of Desert Theatreworks in Indio.
Ron and Lance Phillips have been operating the former IPAC as Desert Theatreworks since 2017 and have transformed that space into an east valley performing arts venue with award-winning shows. Prism will be an intimate space with a lineup that will be sure to find its niche in the Palm Springs performing arts scene.
Michael Shaw at Dezart Performs reports that the new stage is poured for their new Dezart Playhouse. Dezart Performs purchased the Robson Chambers/Albert Frey-designed First Church of Christ, Scientist, in Palm Springs and is transforming it into their new home. But it will also be used by other organizations. I saw that building as demolition was happening a few months ago, and marveled at the great bones and how well it will convert from church to state…
And of course, The Plaza Theatre reno is hurling forward with a December 1 opening show (yet to be announced), followed by a stellar lineup that extends well into 2026. (I’m looking forward to Billy Porter!)
J.R. Roberts is assuring us that the venue will open on time, though according to recent news reports costs continue to rise. Fundraising has been robust, but delays like the unnecessary lawsuit by GRIT Development haven’t helped.
All-in-all, the number of butts in seats needed to fill all these venues will be substantial. But with 14 million day and overnight visitors to the valley each year, there are plenty of cheeks to keep those seats warm.
Brad Fuhr, your K-Gay Desert Guide
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Pool Party for a Cause
Make a splash for a cause at Shelter Splash Night, happening Friday, August 15 from 6:30–9:30 pm at the Palm Springs Surf Club. This adults-only, after-hours pool party features floating fun on the Lazy River, tropical drinks at the Island Bar, tasty bites from the Taco Bar, and live beats by DJ Galaxy under the desert stars. With early bird tickets at $25 and proceeds benefiting the Palm Springs Animal Shelter, it’s the perfect way to party with purpose. Get tickets
Clear the Shelters Weekend
Join Palm Springs Animal Shelter for Clear The Shelters on Saturday–Sunday, August 16–17 from 11 am–5 pm. With nearly 500 animals currently in care, this annual event offers a meaningful opportunity to find loving homes for pets in need. Community support through adoption fee sponsorships helps make it happen, and all adopters will receive two tickets to The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens as well as an adoption pack from Tailwaggers. Stop by, meet your new best friend, and help make space for hope. KGAY 106.5 and 92.1 will be Out and About with John Taylor broadcasting from the event on Saturday from 10 am–Noon! More info
Big Bear Romp
Get ready for four days of mountains, mischief, and mayhem at Big Bear Romp, happening August 14–17 at Big Bear Lake. This all-day, all-out celebration welcomes bears, cubs, daddies, and friends for glow bowling, lake cruising, pool parties, outrageous trivia, comedy, and late-night dance events like the witchy underwear bash BEEFWITCH. With DJs, vendors, and signature events like Bear Soup and Bitchy Bingo, Big Bear Romp is your summer escape for connection, laughter, and unapologetic fun. More info
Lake Arrowhead Pride
Celebrate love, lakeside flair, and mountain magic at Lake Arrowhead Pride, happening August 15–16. This vibrant weekend features the Pink Pony Club Dance Party, two dazzling Love Boat Booze Cruises, a colorful Boat Decorating Contest, and a lively Pride Festival at Lake Arrowhead Village. Cap it off with the glitter-fueled Mayhem in Maui dance party and a fabulous Drag Brunch in Blue Jay. From cocktails to cruising, it’s a joyful escape into community, creativity, and Pride spirit. More info
Gay Softball League Fall Tryouts
Step up to the plate with the Palm Springs Gay Softball League at fall tryouts this Saturday and Sunday, August 16–17 at Demuth Park. Whether you’re a seasoned slugger or swinging for the first time, all players 18+ are welcome. Join the new player clinics on Saturday from 9–11 am and Sunday from 11 am–1 pm at fields 7 and 8 to meet the teams, learn the ropes, and get matched with your perfect lineup. It’s all about fun, community, and a little friendly competition! More info
Splash House Weekend 2
The ultimate summer pool party experience returns to Palm Springs for Splash House Weekend 1, happening Friday–Sunday, August 15–17. Immerse yourself in house music vibes across three incredible resorts (Saguaro, Renaissance, and Riviera) alongside thousands of fellow sun-worshiping and electronic music-loving revelers. Featuring a stacked lineup including Boys Noize, BUNT., Claude VonStroke, Neil Frances, NOIZU, Sofi Tukker, AY YBO, Max Styler, and more. Don’t miss the After Hours at the Air Museum with a Disclosure DJ Set on Friday and CLOONEE on Saturday. Get tickets
Heart – Royal Flush Tour
Rock icons Heart ignite the stage at The Show inside Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa on Friday, August 15 at 8 pm. As part of their Royal Flush Tour 2025, Ann and Nancy Wilson bring decades of powerhouse vocals, fierce guitar riffs, and unforgettable hits like “Barracuda,” “Alone,” and “Crazy on You.” This is your chance to witness one of rock’s most influential bands in an intimate, high-energy setting. Get tickets
“Protect Our Checks” Rally
Make your voice heard at the Protect Our Checks – Hands Off Our Social Security Rally on Saturday, August 16 from 9–11 am at the Social Security Administration, 4201 Ramon Rd in Palm Springs. Held just two days after Social Security’s 90th anniversary, this featured sidewalk rally calls on the community to stand up for earned benefits and demand protection for future generations. Bring your signs, your spirit, and your support for this vital program. More info
Baby One More Time Burlesque
Don’t miss Baby One More Time, a Britney Spears Burlesque Tribute on Saturday, August 16 from 8–10 pm at Hotel Zoso. This glitter-drenched spectacle celebrates every iconic era of the Princess of Pop—from schoolgirl sass to snake-charming glam—with fierce performances by SoCal’s top burlesque stars. Whether you’re planning a birthday bash, bachelorette blowout, or just craving some Y2K nostalgia, this high-energy show promises outrageous costume reveals, wild dance breaks, and plenty of “It’s Britney, bitch!” moments. Get tickets
Taste of Summer Rancho Mirage – Final Weekend
Taste of Summer Rancho Mirage is in its third and final week, running through Sunday, August 17—which means just a few more chances to take advantage of these sizzling specials and delicious discoveries. With a $10 wristband, available from the Rancho Mirage Chamber of Commerce or participating nonprofits, you’ll unlock exclusive deals at dozens of local restaurants. It’s a win-win: enjoy tasty bites, cool treats, and culinary adventures while supporting vital nonprofit programs across the Coachella Valley. Come hungry and celebrate the season with flavor and community! More info
The Dinner Detective at Palm Springs Surf Club
The Dinner Detective brings its acclaimed murder mystery dinner show to The Palm Springs Surf Club on Saturday, August 16 from 6–9 pm. Enjoy a full buffet dinner while the suspense unfolds around you—no stage, no cheesy costumes, just a thrilling whodunit where anyone could be a suspect. It’s an unforgettable evening of mystery and interactive fun, perfect for date nights, birthdays, or group outings. Get tickets
ALSO THIS WEEKEND
Friday, Aug 15
Blood Drive | 10 am–3 pm at Eisenhower Health
Drag Bingo/Trivia Nights (alternating) | 4:30–7 pm at Arrive Hotel
Food Truck Fridays | 5–10 pm in Downtown Indio
Saturday, Aug 16
LGBTQIA Higher Powered OA Meeting | 11:30 am at Sunny Dunes Clubhouse
Solar Sessions at Royal Sun Palm Springs | 12–6 pm
Country Dance Saturdays: Toes Line Dance With Kyle Young | 7 pm at Step by Step
Sunday, Aug 17
Guided Hikes | 11 am & 1:30 pm at San Jacinto State Park (Tramway Mountain Station)
For all events go to GayDesertGuide.com
