While we’re watching the forecast maps for the weekend’s weather, I’ve been looking at two maps that affect our LGBTQ+ safety when travelling outside our Palm Springs bubble and our standing in the USA.
First, the annual risk world map to assess the safety for travellers from the LGBTQ+ community. A3M Global Monitoring, in cooperation with Diversity Tourism and ITB Berlin, published the LGBTQ+ Risk Map 2025. The USA is yellow – nationally it’s only moderately safe for LGBTQ+ travelers to come here!
Of the Top 10 countries ranked as the safest, Canada ranks third. We don’t place. The storm clouds over the US have been gathering since the Trump administration took office: the 2024 map had us in “green” or a low risk for world travelers.
EQUALDEX provides data on a number of fronts in the United States to crowdsource laws and public opinion data related to LGBTQ+ rights. Looking at their United States LGBT Equality Index is surprising in the differences between legal protections and public opinion.
Drilling down to the state level – and taking into account legal rights in various states – it’s a potpourri of extremes. Massachusetts leads both in the legal index and public opinion index. And that’s where California falls down. While we have a 95 in legal protections, our public opinion number is 67. That’s drops our overall ranking to 16th in the country. At least we’re not Arkansas which is dead last at 49.
We’ll be shielding ourselves against the inclimate weather that’s about to strike the Coachella Valley this weekend. But the bigger threat comes from manmade laws, biases and prejudices that we face every day. Those won’t dissipate with passing of a cold front. It will take a lot of work to regain our standing in the world as a safe place to visit.
Brad Fuhr, your K-Gay Desert Guide
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Palm Springs Food and Wine Festival
The Palm Springs Food and Wine Festival: An International Experience is an extraordinary celebration of flavor & creativity. Taking place Saturday, November 15 and Sunday, November 16 at the Palm Springs Stadium Pavilion, the gastronomic extravaganza offers a unique experience running from 12–4 pm (with optional early VIP admission at 11 am). Attendees can indulge in an array of international foods and local specialties, enjoy an extensive selection of over 500 wines from around the world and watch live demonstrations from a powerhouse lineup of celebrity and emerging chefs, including Susan Feniger, Nik Sharma, Angelo Sosa, Elizabeth Falkner, and Joe Sasto. See our listing for the full detailed lineup, and look for emcees Brad Fuhr on Saturday and Patrick Evans on Sunday! Get tickets
La Quinta Art Celebration Encore
The La Quinta Art Celebration Encore continues Friday–Sunday, November 14–16 at the La Quinta Civic Center, bringing together jury-selected artists from around the world for four days of creativity and connection. Set against the stunning backdrop of one of the Coachella Valley’s most picturesque venues, this premier event features original artworks, vibrant community energy, and a VIP experience that art lovers won’t want to miss. More info
Q+ Art Award & Talk: Nick Cave
Palm Springs Art Museum hosts a featured event honoring acclaimed artist Nick Cave with the 2025–2026 Q+ Art Award on Saturday, November 15 from 10:30 am–12 pm at the Annenberg Theater. Celebrated for his groundbreaking contributions to contemporary art and social dialogue, Cave will join curator César García-Alvarez for a live conversation exploring his creative journey and cultural impact. Attendees will also have the opportunity to meet the artist following the talk. This event highlights the intersection of art, identity, and community within the museum’s ongoing commitment to LGBTQ+ programming. Get tickets
Sutton Lee Seymour in “Witch, Please!”
Get ready for a whirlwind of campy comedy as Sutton Lee Seymour brings Witch, Please! to the Palm Springs Cultural Center at 7 pm both Friday & Saturday, November 14 & 15. From Oz to Wicked, Sutton spins the ultimate parody with ruby tap shoes, rapid-fire musical mashups, and witchy one-liners that’ll leave you cackling. Whether you’re a Broadway buff or just love a good laugh, this spellbinding show is not to be missed! Get tickets
Real Talk, Real Health with Brothers of the Desert
Join Brothers of the Desert for Real Talk, Real Health on Saturday, November 15 from 9 am–1 pm at the Renaissance Palm Springs. This free, half-day Wellness Summit Preview centers holistic health for Black men and allies, featuring keynote speaker Dr. Daniel Driffin and a powerful lineup of community leaders. Expect inspiring conversations on mental wellness, HIV advocacy, and culturally responsive care — plus a complimentary lunch sponsored by Gilead Sciences. Space is limited, so RSVP today: More info
Magic of Lights
Get ready to sparkle! Magic of Lights returns to the Empire Polo Club starting this Saturday, November 15–December 31, transforming the grounds into a dazzling drive-through wonderland. This beloved holiday tradition features millions of lights, festive displays, and an enchanting Holiday Village powered by IID—all set beneath the starry skies of the Coachella Valley. Perfect for families, date nights, and seasonal selfies, it’s a celebration that shines brighter every year. Get tickets
Get Your 2025 KGAY Pride Shirt Online Now
If you weren’t able to get one of our T-Shirt Swaps in person at Palm Springs Pride, fear not! You can still show your Pride and support KGAY by grabbing the official 2025 KGAY Pride Shirt online. Featuring a bold, celebratory design in your choice of colors and styles (classic-T, tank top, sweatshirt, v-neck, fitted scoop, and more) this limited-edition design lets you rep Palm Springs Pride wherever you are. Shop now
West Side Story in Concert, a Gala Celebration
Dezart Performs unveils its new playhouse with West Side Story in Concert, a celebratory gala on Friday and Saturday, November 14–15. Set within a restored 1957 Chambers & Frey-designed landmark, this mid-century modern gem now houses a bold new chapter in Palm Springs theatre. The Tony award-winning musical—renowned for its fusion of classical form, Latin rhythms, and social commentary—echoes the visionary spirit of the building itself. Receptions begin at 6 pm, followed by performances at 7 pm each evening. Get tickets
Head over Heels
Desert TheatreWorks presents a musical journey through the kingdom of Arcadia with Head Over Heels, running through November 30. Fueled by the infectious hits of The Go-Go’s, this joyful production blends royal drama, mistaken identities, and heartfelt discovery into a celebration of love, freedom, and self-expression. Get tickets
Karen & Tony Barone Walk of Stars Dedication
Celebrate creativity and community on Friday, November 14 from 3:30–4 pm at Downtown Park in Palm Springs as Karen and Tony Barone receive their star on the Walk of Stars. This free dedication honors the beloved artist duo’s vibrant contributions to the city’s cultural landscape and enduring legacy. More info
Daniel LeClaire – “My Heart Belongs to Daddies”
Daniel LeClaire brings the sass, swing, and a wink of leather to the Palm Springs Cultural Center with My Heart Belongs to Daddies—a cabaret comedy running at 9 pm on Friday & Saturday, November 14 & 15. Directed by Tim Murray, this jazzy, elegant-ish evening features original songs, parodies, and Broadway favorites from icons like Elvis, Eartha Kitt, and Sinatra. Whether you’re rocking steel toe boots or boat shoes, it’s a cheeky tribute to daddies everywhere. Harness optional, fun guaranteed. Get tickets
OPENS FRI: The Roommate
Desert Ensemble Theatre presents The Roommate by Jen Silverman, opening Friday and running November 14–23 at the Palm Springs Cultural Center. This dark comedy explores the twists of unlikely friendship and the messy beauty of reinvention. Fresh off a successful Broadway run, the play brings sharp wit and emotional depth to the stage in a production that promises both laughter and reflection. Get tickets
Retro After Dark Estate Sale
Retro After Dark takes place on Saturday, November 15 from 10 pm–3 am with a bold and cheeky late-night vintage sale for adults 18+. Located near the Tool Shed and Club 541 (address shared upon RSVP), this no-cost event features thousands of retro adult-themed items—from magazines and leatherwear to artwork and novelty treasures. A limited preview sale takes place Friday, November 14 from 6–8 pm. RSVP now and prepare for a night of nostalgic naughtiness and playful finds. More info
Book Signing with Lucie Arnaz
Spend a heartfelt afternoon with Lucie Arnaz on Saturday, November 15 from 1–4 pm at Just Fabulous in Palm Springs, as she unveils Lucy & Desi: The Love Letters. This exclusive book signing marks the first for her newly released collection of never-before-seen correspondence between Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz, offering a deeply personal glimpse into their legendary love story. Space and number of books is limited and demand is high — pre-order your signed copy today. More info
Kenny G.
Let the smooth sounds of Kenny G sweep you away on Saturday, November 15 from 8–10 pm at the Spotlight 29 Showroom. With over 75 million albums sold and a signature saxophone style that’s captivated audiences for decades, Kenny G brings his timeless hits and newest lullaby-inspired album Innocence to the stage for one captivating night. Get tickets
Pawshion Week Palm Springs
Pawshion Week Palm Springs happens Saturday, November 15 from 2–4 pm with a runway event that’s all bark and all bite—in the best way. Hosted at a mid-century modern home (address shared upon RSVP), this stylish canine fashion show features fifteen fabulous pups strutting designer looks to benefit Friends of the Palm Springs Animal Shelter. Guests will enjoy mimosas, hors d’oeuvres, desserts, and a curated art showcase, all wrapped in tail-wagging glamour and community spirit. Get tickets
Mid-Century Magic at Rubine Red Gallery
Step into a world of nostalgia and vibrant detail at Mid-Century Magic, Geoffrey Gersten’s debut solo exhibition at Rubine Red Gallery, running November 15–December 16. Known for his masterful throwback realism, Gersten captures the essence of mid-century joy—from vintage treats to playful memories. Don’t miss the opening reception on Saturday, November 15 from 5–8 pm, where the artist’s iconic works come to life in the heart of Palm Springs. More info
Ice Castles & Inside Stories
Festival Theaters hosts a special screening of Ice Castles on Saturday, November 15 at 6 pm, followed by an on-stage conversation with star Lynn-Holly Johnson. Presented by The Desert Figure Skating Club, this heartfelt evening revisits the beloved 1978 film and its enduring message of love and resilience. Johnson shares behind-the-scenes stories from her skating and acting journey, offering fans a rare glimpse into the making of a classic. VIP Reception to follow at V Wine Lounge. Get tickets
Joshua Treenial “Desert Futures”
Joshua Treenial’s second weekend unfolds Friday–Sunday, November 14–16 with a dynamic lineup of workshops, performances, and exhibitions exploring the theme Desert Futures. Highlights include mycomaterial innovation with Sam Shoemaker, immersive sound at the Integratron, and thought-provoking installations at BoxoPROJECTS, Goat Gallery, and Harrison House. From ecosomatic landscapes to experimental hieroglyphs, each event invites reflection on adaptation, reinvention, and the creative pulse of the desert. More info
Alpine Zoo Wild Lights
This holiday season, Big Bear Alpine Zoo transforms into a glowing celebration of nature with Alpine Zoo Wild Lights, an immersive light walk featuring nearly 2 million LED and solar-powered lights. Running from 5–9 pm, Wednesday–Sunday evenings through January 4, this dazzling experience supports wildlife rehabilitation and conservation efforts while inviting guests to explore the magic of the San Bernardino Mountains after dark. The event blends seasonal cheer with community spirit and alpine preservation. Expanded hours are offered during Thanksgiving week and the December holidays. Get tickets
