Brad Fuhr, your K-Gay Desert Guide
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Palm Springs International Film Festival
The Palm Springs International Film Festival returns Friday–Sunday, January 2–12, transforming the city into a global showcase for cinema with 169 films from more than 70 countries, including 53 premieres and 44 International Feature Film Oscar submissions. With Opening Night featuring Calle Malaga and Closing Night presenting Glenrothan, the festival offers audiences an extraordinary range of storytelling across multiple venues, including the newly added Plaza Theatre. For those wishing to attend screenings, the festival provides a variety of options, from individual tickets to multi‑film passes, allowing attendees to curate their own experience across the 11‑day schedule. Get tickets
Palm Springs International Film Awards
The Palm Springs International Film Awards brings worldwide attention to our city on Saturday, January 3 at 8 pm, welcoming an extraordinary group of honorees whose achievements defined the year in film. Scheduled to appear are Timothée Chalamet, Rose Byrne, Kate Hudson, Guillermo del Toro, Amanda Seyfried, Ethan Hawke, Chloé Zhao, Leonardo DiCaprio, Michael B. Jordan, Adam Sandler and Joachim Trier with members of their ensembles. Their presence underscores Palm Springs’ role as a global gathering place for artistry, creativity and cinematic excellence! More info
Shaun Cassidy – “The Road to Us”
The Plaza Theatre welcomes audiences for an evening with Shaun Cassidy on Saturday, January 3 at 8 pm. Known for his electrifying rise as a teen idol, Cassidy brings the energy and charm that fueled his multi‑platinum albums and iconic hits including “Da Doo Ron Ron,” “That’s Rock ’n’ Roll,” and “Hey Deanie.” His return to the stage offers fans a rare chance to experience the star power that once filled arenas across the country, now in the intimate setting of a beloved Palm Springs landmark. Get tickets
Broadway Drag Roulette
Vanity Halston’s Broadway Drag Roulette brings high‑energy chaos and show‑stopping talent to one eleven bar on Saturday, January 3 at9 pm. This fast‑paced night invites the audience to choose the Broadway hits, leaving the queens to dive into everything from Wicked to West Side Story—rehearsed or not. With big vocals, bold comedy and plenty of unpredictable moments, it’s a dazzling, crowd‑powered celebration where anything can happen and the performers always rise to the occasion. More info
A Bright New Dawn on Sunny 106.5
Say hello to Sunny 106.5, the Coachella Valley’s fresh new radio station. Sunny 106.5 is your go-to for feel-good favorites from the ’90s, 2000s, and more—music so bright, you gotta wear shades. From Mariah Carey and Matchbox Twenty to Adele, Coldplay, Katy Perry, Maroon 5, and hundreds of other favorites, it’s the perfect soundtrack for your day. More than just great music, Sunny 106.5 keeps you connected to the community with local updates and weekday weather from Patrick Evans of News Channel 3, plus friendly, familiar voices throughout the day. Sunny 106.5 is bright music and good vibes for Greater Palm Springs! Learn more
KGAY is Now at 103.1
Meanwhile, KGAY Radio rings in the New Year with a major upgrade, moving to a stronger, farther‑reaching signal at 103.1 FM as it enters its eighth year serving Palm Springs, the Coachella Valley and the LGBTQ+ community by expanding coverage and adding an HD digital signal for clearer, more reliable listening. Streaming also continues worldwide at KGAYPalmSprings.com.
Women’s Tea Dance
Celebrate community, connection, and queer joy at the Women’s Tea Dance on Sunday, January 4 from 3–6 pm at the Palm Springs Surf Club. Inspired by the original gay tea dances of the 50s and 60s, this vibrant afternoon gathering offers a welcoming space for women to unwind, dance, and socialize before the week begins. Hosted by The LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert. More info
Palm Springs Vintage Market
The Palm Springs Vintage Market returns on Sunday, January 4 from7 am–2 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs, offering one of the desert’s most beloved monthly gatherings for retro enthusiasts. Held the first Sunday of the month from October through May, the market brings together friendly, knowledgeable dealers showcasing antiques from multiple eras, upcycled and reclaimed pieces and unique finds that inspire home decor seekers and collectors alike. More info
Holiday Hours at the Tram
Celebrate the season at the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway with special holiday hours through Sunday, January 4, with the first tram up at 8 am and last tram down at 9:30 pm. For a fine‑dining experience, make your reservations at Peaks Restaurant.
Paul Anka
Paul Anka returns to the McCallum Theatre for a three‑performance engagement of All The Hits: His Way Tour, bringing his iconic voice and timeless catalog to the desert. Audiences can experience his legendary showmanship on Friday, January 2 at 8 pm, Saturday, January 3 at 8 pm, and Sunday, January 4 at 3 pm. It’s a rare chance to hear the songs and stories that shaped one of music’s most enduring careers. Get tickets
