Gay Desert Guide Weekend: Aug 22-24, 2025 Palm Springs

Radio has been used for good and evil over the years. In the Netflix miniseries, ‘All the Light We Cannot See,’ the magic of the radio was highlighted as helping win World War II.

Earlier examples include explicitly broadcasting Christian fundamentalist teachings. Aimee Semple McPherson’s KFSG, founded in 1924, utilized radio extensively to spread the message of her Foursquare Gospel Church in Santa Monica. She even conducted healing services where listeners were instructed to place their hands on their radio sets.

Then there was James Dobson. He died this week at 89, having founded the conservative ministry Focus on the Family. Not only was Dobson a longtime campaigner against abortion, he vehemently opposed LGBTQ+ rights. His use of radio over the years spread lies and mis-truths about our community in a damaging manner that cannot be under estimated. He served on Trump‘s Evangelical Executive Advisory Board.

The division of church and state has been dicey throughout our history. Ministries like Dobson’s (he had no church affiliation nor was he an ordained minister) received tax breaks and conservative praise for promoting traditional family values. He turned it into a $140 million dollar empire that at one time was heard on over 2,000 radio stations. Yes, that’s right — more than NPR.

Here at KGAY, we’re just happy putting out our LGBTQ+ messages of inclusion and acceptance on a couple of local radio stations and streaming worldwide. I think of how his messages of conversion therapy “curing” homosexuality damaged generations of youth, caused suicides and needless pain and suffering over the decades. Dobson was truly a devil in a sheep’s clothing.

Brad Fuhr, your K-Gay Desert Guide

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Guadalupe’s House Party

On Friday, August 22 from 7:30–10 pm, Guadalupe’s House Party transforms Palm Springs Art Museum into a celebration of ’90s Los Angeles culture. Immerse yourself in Guadalupe Rosales’ vivid exhibition Tzahualli: Mi memoria en tu reflejo and dance to live sets from DJ Irene and Michael Trance. Explore interactive experiences like a custom tequila bar, tattoo studio, photo booth, and lowrider bike showcase. Get tickets

That’s the T! – A Night Benefiting Trans Wellness of Palm Springs

Thats the T Drag Star Challenge Gives Back

Join one eleven bar for Drag Star Challenge All Stars Gives Back: That’s The T! on Saturday, August 23 at 9 pm. This special drag show benefits the Transgender Health and Wellness Center. The event will feature a special guest appearance by Eureka O’Hara and performances from Frida Diablo, Danity Zann, Dyna Hysus, Good ‘Fer Nut’n, Sexx Luther, Alexander Couture, Bunny Ciccone, King Caux, Korr Sett, and Mia Doll Beverly Hillz. Attendees can also participate in a raffle with prizes from Palm Springs Surf Club, one eleven bar, The Saguaro Drag Brunch, and Drag & Fly Tours. More info

The Peter Gabriel Project

The Peter Gabriel Project, a dynamic tribute led by vocalist Brody Dolyniuk, brings the legendary artist’s solo career to life with a visually stunning performance featuring synchronized lighting and video. Anchored by the complete So album and selections from Gabriel’s broader catalog, this immersive show promises a night of unforgettable music and artistry. Catch the experience on Friday, August 22 at The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa at 8 pm. Get tickets

Out on the Mountain

Get ready for Out On The Mountain at Six Flags Magic Mountain on Friday, August 22! This exclusive LGBTQ+ private party, from 6 pm–12 am, promises thrilling rides, multiple dance parties and special performances. Headlining the DJ set and performances is the fabulous Kerri Colby from RuPaul’s Drag Race. With additional sets by Ray Rhodes, DJ SRO, and DJ Les Ortiz, this is an event you won’t want to miss. Your ticket also gets you free admission with the general public from 10:30 am–6 pm. Get tickets

DOGust Birthday Bash + Bingo

Animal Samaritans and The Rowan present the 5th Annual DOGust Birthday Bash + BINGO, celebrating the official birthday month for shelter dogs, on Saturday, August 23 from 11 am–2 pm in the Rowan Sky Ballroom. Attendees will enjoy a full lunch, wine, and bingo for fabulous prizes. Dogs and puppies will also be available for adoption during the event. More info

Ruth Gruber Ahead of Time

Experience the extraordinary life of Ruth Gruber at the Tolerance Education Center on Friday, August 22 from 1–3 pm. The documentary Ahead of Time traces Gruber’s fearless journey—from earning her PhD at age 20 to escorting Holocaust refugees and documenting pivotal moments in history. The event includes a brief introduction, a full screening, and a Q&A session that honors Gruber’s legacy and the impact of her groundbreaking work. More info

Nominate KGAY and Local Favorites for Best of Coachella Valley

CV Independent’s Best of Coachella Valley 2025–2026 is now open for nominations—and it’s time to spotlight the voices and vibes that make our community shine. Cast your vote for your favorites! We suggest, of course: KGAY 106.5 & 92.1 and 103.1 MeTV FM in Life in the Valley > Best Radio Station, John Taylor and Patrick Evans 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 Friday, August 29, so get your nominations in today!

Cathedral City Quarterly Art Exhibits

Celebrate local creativity at the Quarterly Art Exhibit on Saturday and Sunday, August 23–24, from 10 am–4 pm at Cathedral City Public Library. Presented by the City’s Public Arts Commission, this free event showcases seven talented artists from the Coachella Valley, with a focus on Cathedral City voices. Stop by to enjoy two days of inspiring artwork in a welcoming community setting. More info

Kali Uchis – The Sincerely, Tour

Kali Uchis brings The Sincerely, Tour to Acrisure Arena on Saturday, August 23 from 8–10 pm, performing tracks from her soul-baring fifth album. With a genre-blending style and mesmerizing stage presence, the GRAMMY-winning artist promises a night of deep emotion, rich vocals, and radiant self-expression, with special guests Thee Sacred Souls. Get tickets