One hundred Trump days has seemed like 100 years IRL. We’ve been watching this slow motion trainwreck play out in ways that has changed America not for the better and hopefully not for good.
So as May begins, protests continue. But so does life as we know it. We’re still seeing great theatre, hearing stirring music and celebrating community with drag shows and fiestas.
But more bad news for free press came Thursday when our friends at PBS and NPR got notification of an executive order to remove their funding. That after Voice of American and Radio Free Europe suffered a similar fate by Trump’s pen.
Michael Stipe, R.E.M. lead man, has stepped up to the microphone and created a fundraiser for the beleaguered organization. ‘Radio Free Europe 2025’ is available to stream today (May 2), and a limited-edition 10-inch orange-vinyl pressing will be available from September 12. (Visit here to pre-order.) The video ends with “JOURNALISM IS NOT A CRIME”.
And as I intimated in Monday’s blog, we’re also facing challenges that will require us to ask for your support for our worldwide streaming costs and local broadcasts. “Support Your Station: KGAY’s Fund Drive” is set for May 16-22. I hope you’ll consider helping us during our drive. It’s not unlike what our friends are doing at the Coachella Valley Independent, The Palm Springs Post and even The Desert Sun. The latter’s funding for its Opinion Editor came from the non-profit Coachella Valley Journalism Foundation.
As we begin 100+ days, I’ll certainly miss my nightly reality check with Rachel Maddow on MSNBC. She’s back to once a week now, but there are still plenty of sources to get unbiased coverage for what’s transpiring in America. Let’s just hope the courts reverse course and allow the continued funding of PBS, NPR and RFE.
Brad Fuhr, your Gay Desert Guide on KGAY 106.5 Palm Springs
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Cinco de Mayo Arenas District Fiesta
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo at the Arenas District Fiesta in Palm Springs on Sunday, May 4, from 2–10 pm. This free block party features performances by Mariachi Arco Iris de Los Angeles, Willie Gomez (The Voice, singer and dancer for Britney, Christina & Katy), Lizz Castles, and Bassmoves, along with incredible music and festivities throughout the day. Upgrade your experience with a VIP All Access Pass, granting exclusive privileges. Join the celebration and let the spirit of Cinco de Mayo shine in this vibrant event! More info
Retro Palm Springs Fan Convention
Get ready to relive the magic of the 80s, 90s, and early 2000s at Retro Palm Springs, a nostalgic fan convention happening this weekend at the Palm Springs Convention Center. On Saturday, May 3, the event runs from 11 am–7 pm, and on Sunday, May 4, it continues from 11 am–6 pm. This exciting celebration features vintage shopping, retro-themed experiences, an arcade, celebrity meet-and-greets, and more. With appearances by stars like Elizabeth Berkley, Mark-Paul Gosselaar, Mario Lopez, and Tori Spelling, it’s a must-visit event for pop culture fans of all ages! Get tickets
Hot Rodeo Palm Springs 2025
Hot Rodeo, taking place May 2–4, is one of the top gay rodeo events in the country, combining exciting competitions, lively parties, and community fun to benefit local organizations. On Friday, May 2, events begin with a pool party at Motel 6 Downtown, followed by a Welcome Party and Registration at The Tool Shed, and Cowgirl Night at Hunter’s. Saturday, May 3, starts with the official Grand Entry Parade at Dysart Equestrian Park, leading into a day of rodeo competitions. The evening heats up with Dancing Under the Stars at Oscar’s, featuring country music, cocktails, and line dancing. Sunday, May 4 includes another Grand Entry and rodeo competitions, with awards ceremony. Get tickets
Shag House Tours
Step into the vibrant world of The Shag House with immersive tours from May 2–4. Join the Tiki Tour with hourly experiences from 9 am–1 pm, or embrace the evening ambiance with the Twilight Tour on May 2, with tours starting at 5 pm, 6 pm, and 7 pm. Designed by artist Shag (Josh Agle), this meticulously restored mid century modern home blends Desert Modern architecture with his signature style, offering a one-of-a-kind experience in Palm Springs’ Little Beverly Hills neighborhood. Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to explore a life-size Shag painting! On Saturday at 4 pm, there’s a guided tour with the artist himself. Get tickets
This is May Day – National Action Day
Join the National Action this May Day, Saturday, May 3 from 10 am–12 pm at Downtown Palm Springs Park. This is your chance to stand with the many and make your voice heard against the billionaire takeover. Be part of this powerful demonstration for resistance, organized by Courageous Resistance and Indivisible of the Desert. More info
An Evening (and an Afternoon) with David Sedaris
Sold Out! – An Evening with David Sedaris at the Palm Springs Cultural Center on Saturday, May 3 has officially sold out for both 2 pm and 8 pm shows! Guests will enjoy the best-selling author and NPR contributor delivering all-new readings, sharp social critiques, and personal stories, followed by a Q&A and book signing. More info
Desert Winds Freedom Band: Pop, Rock & Swing
Join the Desert Winds Freedom Band for their final concert of the season, Pop, Rock and Swing, on Sunday, May 4 from 2–4 pm at the Jewish Community Center in Palm Springs. This lively performance features music from Marvin Hamlisch, The Beatles, Glenn Miller, Josh Groban, Adele, and more. Don’t miss this upbeat afternoon of music that promises something for everyone! Get tickets
Palm Springs Vintage Market Season-Ender
Discover unique vintage treasures at the final Palm Springs Vintage Market of the season on Sunday, May 4 from 7 am–2 pm, located next to the Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs. This iconic market draws locals, visitors, and design enthusiasts in search of retro finds and timeless gems. Open the first Sunday of the month from October through May, it’s a totally unique shopping experience in the heart of Palm Springs! More info
Desert X
Time is becoming limited with just one week left to explore the fifth edition of Desert X in the Coachella Valley, now through May 11. This outdoor art exhibition features installations across several valley cities that reflect on the desert’s deep time evolutions and intertwine ancestral wisdom with contemporary visions. Check out descriptions of all the pieces and photos from the installations [here]. The Desert X 2025 Hub is hosted at the Thompson Palm Springs. Printed programs and field guides will be available for pickup at the Hub during open hours or at the front desk throughout the exhibition. Hub hours are Fridays from 2–5 pm and Saturday & Sunday from 10 am–5 pm. More info
Women’s Tea Dance at Palm Springs Surf Club
Get ready for the Women’s Tea Dance this Sunday, May 4, from 3–6 pm at The Palm Springs Surf Club. Hosted by The LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert, this event promises an afternoon of great music by Ay-Lex Song with no cover charge. It’s going to be a fun gathering with a pulsating atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a Sunday afternoon in Palm Springs! More info
Peggy’s Back and Nic & Desi
Purple Room Palm Springs is back open after a utilities issue forced closure for nearly two weeks. Kick off the weekend with two sensational performances at Michael Holmes’ Purple Room: On Friday, May 2, Chuck Sweeney brings his award-winning tribute Peggy’s Back! to the stage, channeling the legendary Miss Peggy Lee with dazzling vocals and charm. Then, on Saturday, May 3, Broadway stars Nic & Desi debut Broadway to Hollywood, a high-energy show celebrating musical theater’s golden era, with music direction from Michael Orland, this evening is pure magic. Get tickets
Blatino Oasis Farewell Retreat
Join the final celebration of Blatino Oasis 2025 at the Canyon Club Hotel, from May 1–4. This farewell retreat honors years of creating connections and celebrating the beauty of Black and Latinx LGBTQ+ communities. The weekend’s highlights include a live performance by AVN and UrbanX Award-winning artist Mazee the Goat, making this event an unforgettable farewell filled with pride, culture, and joy. Get passes
Open Call Talent Project
The Open Call Talent Project at McCallum Theatre is a varied showcase celebrating local talent on May 2 & 3: Friday at 7 pm & Saturday at 2 pm and 7 pm. This visually stunning production features outstanding performers of all ages, including singers, dancers, musicians, magicians, comedians, and more, culminating in a full-cast finale. Audience members can vote for their favorites, with winners revealed at the final performance. Get tickets
Cinco de Mayo Weekend at Agua Caliente
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo Weekend at Agua Caliente, Friday–Monday, May 2–5. Enjoy roaming mariachi bands, live DJs (3 pm–8 pm), festive drink specials, and delicious bites across all three casino locations. On Monday, May 5, indulge in specialty cocktails at 360 Sports, Waters Café (Rancho Mirage), Café One Eleven, and Agave Caliente (Cathedral City), with 50% off happy hour drinks. More info
Sunnylands’ Films in the Gardens
Enjoy cinematic magic under the stars at Sunnylands’ Films in the Gardens, returning in May with three exciting outdoor screenings! The free series kicks off on Friday, May 2 at 7:30 pm with Spy Kids, followed by Hook on May 9, and The Goonies on May 16. Gates open at 6 pm, and guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets, and small picnics for a cozy movie night. More info
THEATRE
Other Desert Cities
Experience the gripping drama of Other Desert Cities, presented by CVRep from April 23–May 4. Set in a Palm Springs manor, this Pulitzer Prize finalist unravels a family’s devastating secret when a young woman arrives with her explosive memoir. With stinging wit and sharp insight, this acclaimed production promises to captivate audiences. Stephen Radosh, our theatre reviewer, says the play is “a deeply-engaging exploration of family, secrets, and how our past can shape our future!” Read his review and Get tickets
ALSO THIS WEEKEND
Friday, May 2
Coachella Valley Cannabis Alliance Network Golf Classic | Woodhaven Country Club
Food Truck Fridays | 5–10 pm in Downtown Indio
United for Good Fundraiser for United Way | 6–9 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa Rancho Mirage
Razzle Dazzle Broadway Revue | 7 pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center
The Cured: The Cure Tribute Experience | 8 pm at The Show
Saturday, May 3
Front Runners & Walkers – Walk/Run + Breakfast Social | 7:30 am–10 am at Sunrise Park
The Property (Israel/Poland) – One-time only movie screening | 10 am at Palm Springs Cultural Center
Kentucky Derby | 2 pm at 360 Sports, Agua Caliente Rancho Mirage, Palm Springs, and Cathedral city
CV Firebirds v. Abbotsford Canucks Round 2 Playoff Game | 6 pm at Acrisure Arena
Country Dance Saturdays: Showstopper Line Dance with Kyle Young | 7 pm at Step by Step
For all events go to the GayDesertGuide.com
