Gay Desert Guide Weekend: Oct 18-20, 2024

Banned Book Week took place late last month, and many of the titles that the right vilifies are those by LGBTQ+ authors. That’s why this weekend’s Pride on the Page is more important than ever.

We chose it as our # 1 for the weekend as the election draws near, and so many culture war topics are on the line. The free event on Saturday spans a number of topics from whimsical to weighty.

I know a number of authors and publishers who have made Palm Springs their home. They must find that it helps cure writer’s block! From Dirk Schultz (“Gay Gray & Fit After 50”), author couple Byron Lane and Steven Rowley to Sukie de la Croix who operates an LGBTQ publishing company in town, we are a hub for LGBTQ+ literary excellence.

We’re also home to a number of retailers who keep reading alive, including The Best Bookstore in Palm Springs and Just Fabulous. There’s even a thriving Barnes and Noble in Palm Desert.

Remember R.I.F. – Reading is Fundamental? That public service message from the 70s had a big impact to help reduce illiteracy among young people. Maybe we should start a similar program to promote LGBTQ+ titles. I’m not sure that G.R.I.F.T. (Gay Reading Is Fundamental Today) is the best acronym, but maybe one of our authors can help…

Brad Fuhr, your Gay Desert Guide on KGAY 106.5 Palm Springs

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Pride on the Page Book Festival

On Sunday, October 20, the Palm Springs Public Library Foundation will host Pride on the Page, a FREE full-day festival from 10 am–5:30 pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center. This event will feature six panels with over 20 LGBTQ+ and affirming authors and allies, discussing a variety of topics including film and television, queer families, identity, and new fiction. The festival aims to bring together diverse viewpoints and genres, attracting both newcomers to queer culture and those deeply immersed in it. See our event listing for the detailed schedule: More info

Center Stage Gala

The (SOLD OUT) Center Stage Gala, hosted by The LGBTQ+ Community Center of the Desert, will take place on Saturday, October 19 from 5:30–9 pm at the Palm Springs Air Museum. This year’s theme, “Creating Community, Making Magic,” promises an enchanting evening featuring a cocktail reception, sit-down dinner, and captivating performances, including a special appearance by American Idol winner and Indio native, Abi Carter. The event will also honor John McDonald and Rob Wright with the Legacy Award for their significant contributions to The Center. More info

Thrive: A Path to Well-Being

The L-Fund’s Annual Women’s Health & Wellness Fair, Thrive: A Path to Well-Being is scheduled for Saturday, October 19, from 10 am–2 pm at the Annenberg Health Sciences Building, Eisenhower Hospital. This event features education, health screenings, empowerment speakers, and a workshop on queer identity in medical care. Admission includes a continental breakfast and snacks. This fair is an excellent opportunity to connect with experts, access vital resources, and engage in insightful discussions tailored for cis, trans, and queer-identifying lesbians. Get tickets

Lez Party: A Fall Celebration

Join a fun-filled afternoon and evening at Lez Party on Sunday, October 20, from 3–7 pm. Enjoy delicious drinks, great music, and exciting entertainment. Support the L-Fund with a $10 cash door fee. The event takes place at Low Desert Modern Mexican Restaurant & Bar in Smoketree Plaza. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to socialize and have a great time! More info

The Pride 2024-2025 Visitor Map & Guide is Here!

Check out the new edition of K-Gay Desert Guide Visitor Map & Guide! 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!

The Wild Women of Winedale

Desert Theatreworks presents The Wild Women of Winedale from October 18–November 3 at the Blackbox theater. Meet the spirited sisters, Fanny and Willa, along with their delightfully eccentric sister-in-law, Johnnie Faye. Through laughter and tears, they’ve weathered life’s storms, from losing spouses to the unexpected sinkhole swallowing their home in Florida. Join these remarkable women as they tackle life’s clutter with wit and ingenuity, promising an uproarious journey filled with laughter and heart. Get tickets

Dial “M” for Murder

Desert Theatreworks presents Dial “M” for Murder, running October 4–20 at Blackbox Theater. In this suspenseful thriller, Tony Wendice plots to murder his wife Margot for her money, only for his plan to unravel when the hired killer fails and Margot survives. As Tony’s web of deceit tightens, the truth gradually emerges, leading to a dramatic confrontation. Get tickets

*F**king Men*

The Bent presents F**king Men, playing Thursday–Sunday, from October 11–27 at the Palm Springs Cultural Center. This fascinating, funny and provocative story of sex, love and connection follows ten men through a series of erotic encounters that change their lives in small but significant ways. A smash hit in London, F**cking Men takes a sharp and insightful look at the experiences of modern gay men as they navigate their conflicting desires for the comfort of monogamous love and the thrill of sexual freedom. Our theatre reviewer Stephen Radosh says “The message is basically an optimistic one even if it does have traces of extreme cynicism sprinkled throughout.” Read his full review and Get tickets

Tram Road Challenge

The Palm Springs Aerial Tram Road Challenge returns on Saturday, October 19 at 7 am. This challenging 6K run/walk begins at the bottom of Tram Way and climbs over 1,900 feet in elevation. Participants receive a finishers medal, tee shirt, and breakfast snack. Awards will be given in each age category. More info

The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway has completed their annual maintenance and re-opened as of Friday, October 18, one day earlier than previously announced. The first tram up will be at 10 am, the last tram up will be at 8 pm, and the last tram down will be at 9:30 pm. Tram cars depart at least every 30 minutes. Completed projects during the 2024 preventative maintenance closure include replacement of 4 tension ropes, maintenance and testing on the gearbox, and track rope repositioning, among other essential tasks. More info

The Drowsy Chaperone

Musical Theatre University kicks off their 2024-25 season with the hilarious and heartwarming musical The Drowsy Chaperone. Join a talented cast of students, known as “Broadway’s Next Generation,” alongside special guest stars for an unforgettable evening of music and laughter. This production will run from October 18–20, with performances on Friday and Saturday at 7:30 pm and Sunday at 2 pm. Catch the show at the Helene Galen Performing Arts Center on the campus of Rancho Mirage High School. Get tickets

PAN-O-RAMA Opening Reception

MAD.KAT Gallery in Rancho Mirage, presents “PAN-O-RAMA: Landscapes, Seascapes, Escapes,” a captivating exhibition featuring seven talented artists. Opening on Saturday, October 19 with a reception from 5–9 pm, the show includes atmospheric abstract landscapes by Patrick Dennis, the expressive works of Kim A. Tolman, bold woodcut prints by Grayson Kent, imaginative pop surrealism from Brady Willmott, large-scale abstracts by Maha Ibrahim, diverse creations from Adam Cooley, and vibrant mixed media pieces by Rocio Delgado. This diverse collection will be on display through December 14. More info

This Weekend at The Purple Room

Enjoy a weekend of incredible performances at The Purple Room Supper Club: On Friday, October 18 & 19, catch the talented Billy Stritch, known for his captivating voice and witty banter, in his intimate show “A Musical Night Out with Billy Stritch.” Then, on Sunday, October 20, experience the magic of “The Judy Show,” a tribute to the legendary Judy Garland. Fri/Sat shows feature dinner at 6, show at 8 pm. Sunday dinner at 5, show at 7 pm. Get tickets

Western Xposure Fall Bear Weekend #2: XXL

Western Xposure XXL, taking place October 17–20 at CCBC Resort, is a vibrant and inclusive (and extra-kinky compared to Weekend 1) event for the bear community. This clothing-optional, body-positive gathering features a Halloween theme with elaborate decorations, pool parties, and DJ sets. Attendees can enjoy a variety of activities, including playful nighttime events, a free lunch BBQ on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, and access to hot tubs, a steam room, and outdoor play spaces. Get tickets

Borrego Days Desert Festival

The 58th Annual Borrego Days Desert Festival, presented by the Borrego Springs Chamber of Commerce, will be held on Saturday & Sunday, October 19 & 20. Saturday’s parade down Palm Canyon Drive ends at Christmas Circle, where attendees can enjoy free live entertainment from bands like PHT, Honky Tonk Nights, Pulp Vixen, Grupo Desatado, and Soul Frenzi. The festival features art exhibits, a kids’ zone, food vendors, artisans, educational booths, an adult beer garden, and a free car show. More info

Halloween Paw Parade and Pet Costume Contest

Get ready for a spooktacular Halloween celebration with the Palm Springs Halloween Paw Parade and Pet Costume Contest! Presented by Boozehounds Palm Springs on Saturday, October 19 from 8 am–1 pm, this event benefits the Palm Springs Animal Shelter. Join the fun by registering your furry friend for the parade and costume contest, then gather at Victoria Park at 8 am for coffee, donuts, and pet lineup. The parade kicks off at 9 am, followed by treats, eats, and an awards ceremony with guest judges at the Boozehounds parking lot. Register t o day