Let’s face it: The news goes from bad to worse. And while many of the draconian efforts of the new administration will eventually be stopped, that’s not much solace.
I’ve been watch Rachel Maddow for both warning signs and that much needed solace as she broadcasts each weeknight for the first 100 days. She’s covering a lot of ground, but there’s just a firehose of troubling news every day.
My continued fears surround our transgender community. The latest: A ban that may exclude any trans athlete from competing in the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics. The newspapers and online sources are full of trans-related headlines. And of course it’s partially a distraction away from all the other measures that erode our freedoms as a nation.
Vox reports on how Hungarians are sounding the alarm as “the orange one” takes on the traits and playbook of Viktor Orban’s 2010 power grab. (paywall or Apple News)
Our LGBTQ community’s focus must stay on our rights and fight the rollback of DEI. A high school friend and ally posted this gem:
If you oppose “DEl,” you should have to use the full phrase instead of the letters. Be brave and say, “I oppose diversity, equity, and inclusion.”
Bonus points if you admit which part of that you don’t like.
Making it an acronym transforms it into a thought-terminating cliche.
From now on, be proud of your opinions, but be specific. Let everyone know if it’s diversity you don’t like, or if it’s equity, or if it’s being inclusive”
Friday evening’s rally on Arenas is one small step to show our opposition. But we must continue to stand against the policies that threaten our democracy as we know it.
Brad Fuhr, your Gay Desert Guide on KGAY 106.5 Palm Springs
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Super Bowl Sunday
Celebrate Super Bowl Sunday with exciting events tailored to your interests! At Double Eye Dispensary & Lounge, you can enjoy Puff, Pass, Touchdown – The Big Game at 3:30 pm, where pre-game sessions, halftime hits, and no penalties for excessive celebration await. Gift bags for the first 30 customers and munchies will keep you fueled as you catch every moment of the action in the premier cannabis consumption lounge. Alternatively, head to the Big Game Day Parties at Agua Caliente Casinos from 2–5 pm. With locations in Palm Springs, Rancho Mirage, and Cathedral City, you can enjoy wraparound screens, delicious food, and special viewing party packages including gift cards, free play, priority seating, and game day swag. Plus, don’t miss out on the viewing parties at Hunters and one eleven bar!
27th Annual Tour de Palm Springs
The 27th Annual Tour de Palm Springs is Friday and Saturday, February 7 & 8. This premier event celebrates cycling, community, and charitable giving while honoring military, first responders, and veterans. Held in downtown Palm Springs, this charity fun ride and walk is perfect for all fitness levels. All ride participants will be automatically entered to win a free Retrospec bike valued at $500! Special guest Mädchen Amick, acclaimed actress from Twin Peaks and Riverdale, will join the festivities. The Expo and Beer Garden are open Friday from 12–8 pm, with a Pasta Dinner from 4–8 pm. On Saturday, the ride times start at 6:30 am, 8 am, and 9 am, the Expo runs from 6:30 am–4 pm, with the Beer Garden open from 12–4 pm. Keep an eye out for road closures downtown around Palm Canyon, Baristo and Tahquitz Canyon Way. Enjoy entertainment from over 20 bands (including the Desert Winds Freedom Band from 1:30–2:30 pm) throughout the event and at ride rest areas, too. More info
Gay Softball Tryouts
Join the Palm Springs Gay Softball League for their Spring 2025 tryouts and clinics on Sunday, February 9, and Saturday, February 15, both at 9 am. Held at Demuth Park in Palm Springs on Field #7, these clinics welcome all players, regardless of identity or experience. Meet new friends, assess your skill level, and get assigned to a team that matches your abilities. Whether you’re a beginner, haven’t played in a long time, or want to play competitively, there’s a place for you in the league. More info
Live with Pride: Peaceful Demonstration
The Arenas District in Palm Springs is hosting a peaceful demonstration on Friday, February 7 from 6-8 pm. Organized by Pride Under the Pines, the event aims to demand justice, equality, and respect for the LGBTQ+ community. The event encourages attendees to “Live with Pride and be Proud of Who You Are!” and calls on individuals to “Stand Up, Speak Out, Rise Up!” More info
Victory in Palm Springs 2025
The Victory in Palm Springs 2025 event is on Saturday, February 8, from 11 am–2 pm. Hosted by the LGBTQ+ Victory Fund, this gathering brings together elected officials, leaders, and allies from across California to celebrate LGBTQ+ political power and support LGBTQ+ candidates. Former White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre will be the special keynote speaker. Get tickets
Stephen Harper, Former P.M. of Canada
The Desert Town Hall Speaker Series continues at the Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa on Friday, February 7 at 5 pm. This month’s distinguished speaker is Stephen J. Harper, former Prime Minister of Canada, who will share his insights on geopolitical, economic, and security challenges. Harper, who led Canada for nearly a decade, is also the founder and CEO of Harper & Associates and a renowned author and speaker. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from one of the world’s leading political figures and engage in intellectual discussions. Get tickets
The Art Behind the Scarf
The Art Behind the Scarf Trunk Show Opening Reception is Saturday, February 8 from 2–8 pm at Rubine Red Gallery. In collaboration with the Vera Neumann Estate, this event celebrates the unique sense of style and color that propelled Vera Neumann to fashion stardom from the 1940s to the 1980s. The exhibition showcases her original watercolors and vintage scarves, making fine art accessible to everyone. Don’t miss the opening of this special Modernism Week show and experience the radiant spirit of Vera Neumann in the Uptown Art District. The exhibition continues until March 3. More info
Radical Harmonies Screening
Join the Palm Springs Cultural Center for a special screening of Radical Harmonies on Saturday, February 8, from 3–5 pm. Directed by Academy Award-nominated filmmaker Dee Mosbacher, this documentary chronicles the Women’s Music Cultural Movement and its significant impact on the music industry and women’s roles in culture from the 1960s to the 1990s. Through festival and performance footage, interviews, and archival material, Radical Harmonies delves into a musical culture committed to feminism, diversity, equity, and inclusion. Get tickets
“A Night on the Red Carpet” at the McCallum Theatre
This weekend at the McCallum Theatre: on Friday and Saturday, February 7 & 8 at 7:30 pm, A Night on the Red Carpet features the McCallum Theatre Orchestra under the direction of GRAMMY Award-winning Maestro Richard Kaufman, performing iconic music from Oscar-nominated and Oscar-winning films. Get tickets
Avenue Q
Revolution Stage Company presents Avenue Q from February 7–21. This Tony Award-winning musical brings its irreverent humor and quirky characters back to life, offering a hilarious and touching look at the trials and triumphs of adulthood. Follow Princeton, a bright-eyed college grad, as he navigates life with his colorful neighbors, including Kate Monster, Rod, Nicky, and the unforgettable duo of Trekkie Monster and Lucy the Slut. With catchy songs like “It Sucks to Be Me” and “Everyone’s a Little Bit Racist,” this unique blend of puppetry and live actors explores love, friendship, and finding purpose. Get tickets
Perfect Arrangement
THE BENT presents Perfect Arrangement from February 6–16 at the Palm Springs Cultural Center. Inspired by the true story of the earliest stirrings of the gay rights movement. This hard to believe but historically accurate tale merges madcap sitcom-style laughs with provocative drama as two closeted U.S. State Department employees struggle to maintain their cover – and their sanity – in 1950s America, a world recently depicted in Matt Bomer’s Fellow Travelers. These married co-workers not only share a secret, they are also next door neighbors who share a wall. Get tickets
The Light in the Piazza
CVRep presents The Light in the Piazza from January 22–February 9. Winner of six Tony Awards & five Drama Desk Awards, The Light in the Piazza takes us to the Tuscan countryside where, a beautiful, surprisingly childish young woman loses her hat in a sudden gust. As if guided by the hand of the Sistine Chapel, the hat lands at the feet of a handsome young Florentine man. But as events unfold and secrets are revealed, we follow a love story unlike any other. Filled with a beautiful blend of classical and Broadway melodies, our theatre reviewer Stephen Radosh says “This is a beautiful production of a not-often-produced musical and deserves a date on your calendar.” Read his full review and Get tickets
Legally Blonde The Musical
Desert Theatreworks presents Legally Blonde The Musical from January 17–February 9. Follow Elle Woods as she takes on Harvard Law, fueled by the desire to win back her ex-boyfriend. With infectious energy and catchy tunes, the show captures Elle’s journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Along the way, she faces challenges from peers, professors, and her former flame, but with the help of newfound friends, she proves her resilience and determination. Get tickets
Desert Art Center Mid Mod Show
Celebrate the elegance of mid-century modernism at the Desert Art Center Mid Mod Show from February 7–23 during Modernism Week in Palm Springs. Join on Friday, February 7, from 5–7 pm for the opening of this vibrant exhibition that showcases contemporary and retro-inspired art reflecting the sleek lines, dynamic patterns, and timeless charm of the mid-century era. More info
Forever Marilyn Lighting Up Red
On Friday, February 7 from 6–6:30 pm, the iconic Marilyn Monroe statue, “Forever Marilyn,” will light up red to raise awareness about heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular diseases. This event is part of the American Heart Association’s annual Wear Red Day, which aims to educate the public on the importance of preventing cardiovascular diseases through awareness and positive lifestyle changes. More info
Honky Tonk Angels
Desert Theatreworks presents Honky Tonk Angels, a musical extravaganza, from February 1–March 30 at the Black Box Theatre. This lively show features three fearless women from diverse backgrounds chasing their dreams to Nashville. With 30 timeless country hits like “Stand By Your Man,” “9 to 5,” and “Harper Valley PTA,” this toe-tapping journey celebrates sisterhood, resilience, and the power of music. Get tickets
Journey Tribute at The Gardens on El Paseo
The Gardens on El Paseo 27th Annual Concert Series continues on Saturday, February 8 at 4 pm with Classic Journey (Journey Tribute), benefiting Pegasus Riding. Reserve your tickets now and wine down on the Center Lawn, Saturday evenings to support your community. Upcoming benefit shows include: Rolling Stones Tribute (2/15), John Stanley King Band (2/22), Jimmy Buffett Tribute (3/1), and Rod Stewart Tribute (3/8). Get tickets
ALSO THIS WEEKEND
Friday, February 7
Palm Springs Readers’ Festival | Fri, Sat, Sun at Hotel Zoso
International Desert Conservation Summit | Fri, Sat, Sun at The Living Desert
Saturday, February 8
Dr. George Charity Car Show | 9 am–3 pm at Indian Wells Tennis Garden
Parkinson’s Today: An Educational Symposium | 9 am–2 pm at UCR Palm Desert
Quarterly Art Exhibit | Sat. & Sun. from 10 am–4 pm at Cathedral City Public Library
3rd Annual Lunar Fest at The River | 11 am–6 pm
Country Dance Saturdays: Beginner East Coast Swing with Lise Baadh | 7 pm at Step by Step
Smokey Robinson Legacy Tour | 8 pm at The Show
Sunday, February 9
Desert Winds Jazz Band Gala Fundraiser | 11–1:30 pm
PSLOD Desert Bloom 2 | 12–5 pm at Club 541
PS Concerts: The Euclid Quartet | 1 pm at Richards Center for the Arts
February at JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort
Valentine’s Day Inspired Spa Treatments | Feb 3–28
Set Sail with “Love Boat” Romance Experience | Fri & Sat
For all events go to GayDesertGuide.com
