“I Think I Can!” was the optimistic incantation of The Little Engine That Could, a book I read as a child that has stuck with me all these years.
The story has been used to teach children the value of optimism and hard work since it’s release in 1930 and is still popular today.
Our country as a whole faces challenges we could never imagine. We’re that train that was going along just fine, and then our engine broke down. We suddenly have a huge mountain to climb: Civil rights being eroded. Gerrymandering. Revenge lawsuits and firings. Cites under siege.
And as the story goes, for various reasons, the other engines refuse because they think they are too important or they don’t believe they can. We Americans, like the other engines in the story, are asked to pull the train over that mountain — To get engaged. To protest. To vote. To financially support.
Do you think that your voice doesn’t matter; that someone else will pull your weight? It’s time to be your own “Little Engine That Could” and stay engaged.
I began to write this as an allegory for what our Palm Springs Pride organization is going through – fundraising shortfalls as they get ready to unveil the Pride Monument, raise the Arenas District Pride flag and put on a world-class pride celebration. But it’s much bigger than that. Our collective mountain is San Jacinto-sized.
Let’s hope that on the other side of all this — like the little engine — we’ll be able to say, “I thought I could, I thought I could.” Going backwards is not an option.
Brad Fuhr, your K-Gay Desert Guide
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Joshua Tree Music Festival
The 20th Fall Joshua Tree Music Festival returns October 9–12 to Joshua Tree Lake Campground with music, movement, and magic under the desert sky. JTMF features nonstop performances across three stages—from sunrise grooves to late-night headphone house—plus over 100 workshops, yoga sessions, and art installations. The festival’s Queer Salon offers a vibrant sanctuary for QTBIPOC and LGBTQIAA+ joy, connection, and empowerment—don’t miss Saturday’s Deep Glam! runway show celebrating queer brilliance and bold self-expression. With a genre-blending lineup including Diggin Dirt, Madame Gandhi, Yak Attack, and Farah Siraj, this family-friendly celebration invites you to dance, connect, and camp beneath the stars. Get tickets
RuPaul’s Drag Race Werq the World Tour
RuPaul’s Drag Race Werq the World Tour sashays into The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa on Saturday, October 11 at 8 pm with a dazzling new theme: the most exclusive awards show in drag herstory. Hosted by Sasha Velour as Lady Gaga and Madonna, this red carpet extravaganza features electrifying performances by Jimbo as Joan Rivers, Morphine Love Dion as Shakira, Jaida Essence Hall as Beyoncé, Roxxxy Andrews as Mariah Carey, and Derrick Barry as Britney Spears. With star-studded impersonations, fierce choreography, and high-glam spectacle, the queens deliver a night that celebrates drag as pure artistry and unapologetic joy. VIP meet and greet packages are available for fans who want to get up close before the show. Get tickets
Singing with the Desert Stars
Desert Ensemble Theatre presents Singing With the Desert Stars IV on Friday, October 10 from 6:30–10 pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center with a reception, performance, and after-party. This one-night-only gala marks the final chapter of DET’s 15-year legacy, pairing professional performers with local leaders in a spirited singing competition. Among the standout contestants is KGAY 106.5‘s own morning host John Taylor, stepping into the spotlight with charm and vocal flair, coached by Douglas Graham. Can’t attend? Help John Taylor meet his fundraising goal by donating online. The evening promises music, mentorship, and community celebration, all in support of DET’s scholarship program for aspiring theatre students. More info
DJ Galaxy’s Car Wash for a Cause
The community is invited to the fun-filled DJ Galaxy’s Annual Car Wash for a Cause, a special fundraiser to assist with the cost for the installation of the new Pride Flag Pole in the Downtown Palm Springs Arenas District. The event takes place on Sunday, October 12 from 11 am–2 pm off Arenas Road, between Chill Bar and Dick’s. Guests can enjoy a free car wash and barbecue, as this is a donation event where every dollar raised will be matched up to $25,000. The event will feature go-go boys from SOS Entertainment’s Desert Studs, the Desert Flaggers, and beats by DJ Galaxy! More info
Kool & The Gang
Kool & the Gang bring their legendary funk, soul, and R&B sound to the Special Events Center at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino on Friday, October 10 at 8 pm. With a career spanning more than five decades, the Hall of Fame inductees have earned two Grammy Awards, seven American Music Awards, and 31 gold and platinum albums. Their iconic hits—“Celebration,” “Cherish,” “Jungle Boogie,” “Summer Madness” and “Open Sesame”—have defined generations of dance floors and radio waves. Get tickets
National Coming Out Day
Saturday, October 11 marks National Coming Out Day, a powerful moment to honor authenticity, courage, and LGBTQ+ visibility. The It Gets Better project encourages community leaders to spark meaningful conversations using their free EduGuide activities. Whether exploring identity through symbols and self-care, addressing internalized stigma, or sharing stories of family support, these 45-minute lessons offer powerful tools to foster self-acceptance and build inclusive spaces where everyone can be their authentic self.
Wings of Hope Fundraiser Gala
The Palm Springs Air Museum sets the stage for Wings of Hope: A Glamorous Journey on Saturday, October 11 from 6–10 pm. This elegant fundraiser gala supports the Hanson House Foundation’s mission to provide compassionate lodging for families facing medical crises. Guests will enjoy live music, gourmet fare from Lulu, and a spirited auction—all in support of a vital community cause. Get tickets
A.M. Stream with Modgirl
Modgirl, the dynamic DJ behind KGAY’s Sunday T-Dance, brings her signature deep house and nu-disco grooves to Café La Jefa with A.M. Stream every Sunday from 10 am–1 pm starting this weekend, October 12. Spinning live from the Airstream, she transforms the patio into a morning dance escape—where caffeine meets rhythm and the beats never sleep. Wake up, tune in, and let Modgirl set the tone for your Sunday groove. More info
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
Palm Canyon Theatre invites audiences to step into a world of pure imagination with Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, running through Sunday, October 12. This whimsical musical follows Charlie Bucket’s golden-ticket adventure through a magical chocolate factory, bursting with colorful characters and beloved songs. Perfect for all ages, the production promises a sweet escape into a story that celebrates wonder, kindness, and the unexpected. Get tickets
The Life and Music of George Michael
The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa welcomes The Life and Music of George Michael on Friday, October 10 at 8 pm. This immersive concert-style tribute celebrates the pop legend’s journey from Wham! to solo stardom, featuring electrifying performances of beloved hits like “Faith” and “Careless Whisper.” With dazzling staging and heartfelt storytelling, the evening promises a powerful blend of nostalgia and musical brilliance. Get tickets
Firebirds Season Opener
The Coachella Valley Firebirds return to Acrisure Arena for their season opener on Friday, October 10 at 7 pm, facing off against the San Diego Gulls. As the team launches its fourth season in the desert, fans can expect high-energy hockey, hometown pride, and a packed arena buzzing with Firebirds Territory spirit. See the full October schedule for the Firebirds on our event page: More info
The Cottage
Broadway’s killer comedy The Cottage opens at Desert Theatreworks on Friday, October 10 and runs October 10–November 2. Set in the 1920s, this stylish and scandalous romp follows one woman’s daring decision to expose her affair—unleashing a whirlwind of secrets, betrayal, and absurd hilarity. With razor-sharp dialogue and unexpected twists, the production offers a wickedly funny take on love, marriage, and the messiness in between. Get tickets
Trick or Treat: Pet Adoptions and Donations
Streetbar and Hunters Palm Springs present Trick or Treat, a festive pet adoption and donation event benefiting the Palm Springs Animal Shelter. Held Saturday, October 11 from 10 am–2 pm, this Warren Jones event invites attendees to “treat” themselves to a cuddly new companion while supporting a great cause. Guests are encouraged to donate food and towels—no treats or toys, please. Come celebrate the season with costumed critters and help make a difference for local animals in need. More info
Get our Pride 2025 Visitor Map & Guide – FREE!
Check out our Pride 2025 Edition of the K-Gay Desert Guide Visitor Map & Guide —just released! To help you find everything you need as a visitor or local, we feature the top places for Food & Drink, Nightlife, Shopping, Attractions, Gay Resorts with passes, Dispensaries, and other services. Look for the latest edition at businesses and newsstands around town, or browse it online right here!
Best of Desert Nominations
The Desert Sun’s Best of Desert Community’s Choice Awards Nomination Round runs now through Wednesday, October 22. This is your chance to show love for local favorites in the “Entertainment & Leisure” category—consider nominating DJ Galaxy, DJ Eric Ornelas, and Modgirl for DJ Event/Wedding; John Taylor, Patrick Evans, and Chris Shebel for Radio Personality/Show; and KGAY 106.5/92.1 and 103.1 MeTV FM for Radio Station – Local. Submit nominations daily and if you nominate in 25 or more categories, you’ll be entered to win a $250 gift card. Let’s celebrate the voices, beats, and stations that keep the desert dancing! Nominate here
Martha’s Village Spooktacular 5K/10K
The first-ever Spooktacular 5K/10K hosted by Martha’s Village & Kitchen kicks off at Ruth Hardy Park on Saturday, October 11 at 8 am. This Halloween-themed race invites runners, walkers, and families to don their best costumes and enjoy a scenic course through Palm Springs. Participants will be treated to music, local vendors, photo ops, and prizes for top costumes—all while supporting vital services for individuals experiencing homelessness through the Palm Springs Navigation Center. More info
Fresh Face at Rubine Red Gallery
Rubine Red Gallery launches its new season with Fresh Face, a vibrant exhibition running October 11–November 12. Featuring works from celebrated gallery artists and introducing newcomers Andy Julo and Don Fisher, the show bursts with bold cyanotypes, rich oil pastels, and fresh perspectives. Don’t miss the opening reception on Saturday, October 11 from 5–8 pm—where fall begins with a splash of color and creativity. More info
Vote KGAY and Local Favorites for Best of Coachella Valley!
CV Independent’s Best of Coachella Valley 2025–2026 has opened their Final Round Ballot—Thank you for the incredible support and strong showing in this year’s nominations—now’s the time to vote and help spotlight your favorites to win! Our contenders include: KGAY 106.5 & 92.1 and 103.1 MeTV FM in Life in the Valley > Best Radio Station, John Taylor, Patrick Evans, and Chris Shebel in Life in the Valley > Best Local Radio Personality, and our dynamic DJ trio—DJ Galaxy, DJ Eric Ornelas, and Modgirl—in Arts > Best Local DJ. Nominations will be accepted through Sunday, October 29. Cast your vote today!
ALSO THIS WEEKEND
Thursday–Sunday, October 9–12
Western Xposure Fall Bear Week | CCBC Resort
Friday, October 10
Drag Bingo/Trivia Nights (alternating) | 4:30–7 pm at Arrive Hotel
Food Truck Fridays | 5–10 pm in Downtown Indio
Cirque Mechanics: Tilt! | 7 pm at the McCallum Theatre
Saturday, October 11
Solar Sessions at Royal Sun Palm Springs | 12–6 pm
The Lofts Art Walk | 4–7 pm
18th Annual Concert for Autism Lead-Up Event | 7:30–10 pm at Hood Bar & Pizza
Ice Castles & Inside Stories with Lynn-Holly Johnson | 6 pm at Festival Theaters
2025 Architectural Preservation Awards | 6–10 pm at the Annenberg Theater
Jane Monheit | 6 pm dinner, 8 pm show at The Purple Room
Indio Second Saturdays | 7 pm in Downtown Indio
Country Dance Saturdays: Beginner Two-Step | 7 pm at Step by Step
Sunday, October 12
Stephan Moccio | 3 pm at The McCallum Theatre
