5was the number of the Democratic National Convention:
Five words: “Kamala Harris for the People!”
Exonerated Five: The men who Donald Trump called to be executed for a crime they did not commit.
November 5 – Election Day.
500 + Anti-LGBTQ+ bills introduced in state legislatures so far this year.
And Project 2025: The radical blueprint for the next administration. As Kamala said, “We are not going back.”
The last night of the Democratic National Convention culminated with our vice president ascending to the official spot as presidential candidate for the 2024 election. She’s riding a wave of momentum even though nearly half of America is still mired in Trumpism.
We’re in for a wild ride between now and Election Day. I talk with many of you who share the fear of outcome and have made contingency plans to leave our country if the worst comes to pass.
Imagine that – especially if you’re an ally reading this blog and not a member of the LGBTQ+ community. We are literally afraid for our lives if Donald Trump is elected.
Gay Desert Guide and our KGAY radio station are meant to uplift, entertain and inform the world about all the great things happening here in the Coachella Valley. However, for the next 70-some days, we have to zoom out of our bubble to bring attention to the future of our country. We’ll be promoting fundraisers, voter registration, volunteer opportunities with our candidates, and talk about some of the issues facing the LGBTQ+ community. In fact, John Taylor and Shann Carr have put together a debate watch party at Hunters.
Please bear with us during this detour. We ‘ll have plenty of airtime and screen time to again make our valley one of the happiest places on earth to visit – after the election.
Brad Fuhr, your Gay Desert Guide on KGAY 106.5 Palm Springs
For the latest, follow our socials @GayDesertGuide and @KGAY1065 and listen to KGAY Palm Springs wherever you may be!
#ILoveGayPalmSprings #ILoveGayCatCity #ILoveGayTravel #ILoveGay #SayKGAY #FindYourOasis
Squeeze and Boy George
British band Squeeze brings their Summer 2024 North American Tour to The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Rancho Mirage on Friday, August 23 at 7:30 pm. Culture Club’s legendary lead singer Boy George joins the band on the road this year. Expect a night filled with unforgettable hits like “Tempted,” “Pulling Mussels (From the Shell),” “Karma Chameleon,” and “Do You Really Want to Hurt Me.” Don’t miss this chance to relive the magic of the 80s with these two legendary acts. Get tickets
Summer Sunset Art Walk
Several art galleries and studios in the Perez Art District of Cathedral City will be open on Friday, August 23 from 4–7 pm for a special Summer Sunset Art Walk, an installment of their popular seasonal 4th Friday Art Walk series. An eclectic array of art in many styles and mediums will be on display and for sale; come celebrate the diversity of Coachella Valley art! More info
Quarterly Art Exhibit
The Cathedral City Public Library is hosting its Quarterly Art Exhibit on Saturday & Sunday, August 24 & 25, from 10 am–4 pm, showcasing works by 10 talented local artists selected from the Cathedral City Public Arts Commissions program. This vibrant exhibition will feature a diverse array of artistic mediums and unique perspectives. Visitors can explore the artwork; some art may be available for purchase, supporting the creative talents within the community. More info
Streetbar 33rd Anniversary
Streetbar is celebrating 33 years of serving the Palm Springs community! Join them on Saturday, August 24 for a day of fun, food, drinks, and giveaways. Enjoy $3 well drinks and $5 daily specials all day long. Don’t miss out on this special event! More info
Celebrate DOGust with Animal Samaritans
Animal Samaritans presents the 4th Annual “DOGust Birthday Bash” on Saturday, August 24 from 11 am–2 pm at the Kimpton Rowan in Palm Springs. Enjoy a delicious lunch, wine, and a chance to win incredible prizes, including a Rowan staycation. Your $20 donation supports Animal Samaritans’ vital work. Let’s celebrate our furry friends and make a difference together! More info
Then, also on Saturday, August 24, at 6 pm it’s DOGust Bingo at one eleven bar, again benefiting Animal Samaritans. Bring any pet supplies (dog or cat food, pet toys, kitty litter, towels, blankets, etc) to the event and receive an extra 50/50 game card. Win cash prizes, make new animal loving friends and have a great time with us. $20 to play. More info
Mixie’s End of Summer Beach Bash
Join Dick’s on Arenas for Mixie’s End of Summer Beach Bash on Saturday, August 24 to celebrate DJ Mixie‘s 65th birthday! Get ready to dance to the hottest beats, mingle with sexy lifeguards, and more. Plus, your attendance helps support the Palm Springs Animal Shelter! More info
Club Sirocco – Mantopia
Get ready for a night of fun at Club Sirocco on Friday, August 23 for Mantopia, featuring dance vibes by Nate Cox, go-go dancers, and drink specials. The party kicks off at 4 pm with DJ live from 9 pm–2 am. Located at 150 S Indian Canyon, next to Hotel Zoso (Formerly Pretty Faces Nightclub). More info
MAD.KAT’s First Anniversary Party
MAD.KAT Gallery is turning one (year old) and it’s time for some fun! Help them celebrate at Some Like it Hot, MAD.KAT’s First Anniversary Party on Saturday, August 24 from 5–8 pm. Come for an unforgettable evening filled with stunning art and raise a toast to MAD.KAT Gallery. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, connect with fellow art enthusiasts, and be part of a milestone event that marks a year of creativity and community! More info
Kings of Leon
Kings Of Leon bring their Can We Please Have Fun Tour to Acrisure Arena in Palm Desert on Friday, August 23 at 8 pm. Formed in 1999, Kings of Leon are an American rock band known for their blend of Southern rock, blues, and alternative influences. They achieved early success in the UK before hitting it big in the US with hits like “Sex on Fire” and “Use Somebody.” Get tickets
Jeff Lynn’s ELO
Jeff Lynne’s ELO kicks off their final tour, dubbed “The Over and Out Tour” at Acrisure Arena on Saturday, August 24 at 8 pm. Known as one of the most iconic forces in music history, in recent years Jeff Lynne’s ELO has delivered a critically acclaimed and chart-topping album along with a sold out run of UK and European shows. The band has always been known for their epic live shows and with a distinct style that seamlessly and innovatively blends rock, pop and classical. Get tickets
Palm Springs Animal Shelter Car Wash Fundraiser
Desert Hand Car Wash in Cathedral City is hosting a special fundraising event to support the Palm Springs Animal Shelter! Get your car washed on Sunday, August 25, from 8 am–2 pm and help make a difference for our furry friends. A portion of all proceeds will go directly to the shelter. Come out, enjoy a clean car, and contribute to a great cause! 🐾🚗❤️ More info
Namaste Away to Big Bear
Power Yoga Palm Springs presents a Big Bear Mountain Yoga Retreat this Thursday–Sunday, August 22–25. Nestled in the tranquil landscapes of Big Bear Mountain, this retreat offers a rejuvenating experience designed to help you take the well deserved and much needed time to reconnect to yourself, nature, yoga, and community. Leave feeling refreshed, inspired, and equipped with the tools to live a balanced, mindful, and connected life. Get tickets
Star Wars Saga – Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens
The Palm Springs Cultural Center is bringing you the full Star Wars Saga in epic big-screen glory, unfolding one film at a time, every Summer Saturday at 6 pm with a pre-show and cocktails starting at 5 pm. This Saturday, August 24, the series continues with Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens. Get tickets
