Traveling abroad — as I did recently — becomes a constant Lucy & Desi moment: “Lucy, you’ve got some ‘splainin’ to do!” And explain away I did. The Europeans I interacted with felt real pity for what we are going through politically.
Most wondered aloud what’s happening to the country they once admired. Some had stories of parallel political perils that their country had survived. None could believe the fall that our democracy has taken.
Starting in Ireland and working our way through the various political histories of England, France, Spain and Portugal, one couldn’t help but see cases of history repeating itself. The most recent and parallel to what we’re experiencing has to be Portugal.
We ended our Brandg Vacations cruise in Lisbon, as the sun rose over the bay and we crossed under the April 25 bridge, a near-replica of the Golden Gate Bridge.
Why would a bridge be named after a date, you may ask? So did I.
On April 25th 1974, a group of military officers started a revolution, the Carnation Revolution, as it is known, which overthrew the dictatorial regime of António de Oliveira Salazar, and established democracy in the country. This day is a national holiday, the ‘Freedom Day’.The bridge had been named for the dictator of Portugal prior to the revolution.
And while our generals had a chance to overthrow the Trump regime last week, time will tell what happens to the United States of America. It would be a great day to see garish names like TrumpRX removed, his gold-leafed White House restored and he — along with those who empowered him — jailed.
BTW, Lucille Ball never uttered those words in an I Love Lucy episode. But we here in the USA still have plenty of ‘splainin’ to do to the rest of the world…
Brad Fuhr, your K-Gay Desert Guide
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Pride Under the Pines
Pride Under The Pines moves to Idyllwild Town Hall on Saturday, October 4 from 12–7 pm with its most dazzling celebration yet. Headlined by powerhouse vocalist Janice Robinson, the fifth annual LGBTQ+ festival also includes appearances by KGAY 106.5’s DJ Galaxy, Prince Joshua, drag stars Mayhem Miller, Abigail Beverly Hillz, and Violetta, with host Alexander Rodriguez bringing his signature flair to the stage—all set against the scenic mountain backdrop. Founded in 2021, the event has grown into a beloved tradition supporting LGBTQ+ advocacy in local communities. With nonstop entertainment and a spirit of unity, Pride Under The Pines invites everyone to celebrate boldly and joyfully in the heart of Idyllwild. More info
Mike Balaban – The Accidental Historian
Step into five decades of queer life and legacy at Mike Balaban: The Accidental Historian, a compelling photo exhibition running October 2–6 at Jaco Moretti Arts in Palm Springs. Known online as @Bammer47, Balaban’s candid portraits and travel snapshots chronicle the lives of gay men across generations—from poolside joy to moments of quiet resilience. What began as a personal passion has grown into a powerful archive of LGBTQ+ history, offering younger audiences a rare glimpse into our community’s past. More info
Blue Zones Project Palm Springs Well-Being Festival
Blue Zones Project Palm Springs presents the Well-Being Festival on Saturday, October 4 from 10 am–1 pm at Wellness Park (Via Miraleste and Tachevah Road)—a free, feel-good celebration of health and happiness. Enjoy energizing beats from KGAY’s own Modgirl, fresh local produce at the pop-up farmers market, yoga and cardio sessions, and delicious bites from top local vendors like Chef Tanya’s Kitchen, Liv’s Palm Springs and more. Free with RSVP: 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!
One Night Out: Paris
The Palm Springs Air Museum transforms into the City of Lights on Saturday, October 4 from 7–10 pm for One Night Out: Paris, a dazzling soirée benefitting The Foundation for PSUSD. Guests will indulge in French cuisine, sip French 75s, and enjoy live music inspired by Moulin Rouge alongside DJ Alf Alpha’s dance beats. Parisian mimes and fortune tellers add flair to this très chic evening, all in support of student programs and educational initiatives. Early entry and a jazz trio reception await VIP guests at 6 pm. Get tickets
“Do You Remember?” with Clive Davis
On Friday, October 3 at 6:30 pm, the Annenberg Theater at the Palm Springs Art Museum hosts “Do You Remember?”—a cinematic tribute to the legendary career of Clive Davis, produced by Mark Ronson and co-produced by Erich Bergen. The screening is followed by a live Q&A with Davis, moderated by Barry Manilow. VIP guests are invited to a hosted reception in the Meyerman Sculpture Garden with hors d’oeuvres and beverages. This special evening benefits the Palm Springs Plaza Theatre Foundation. Get tickets
This Weekend at The Purple Room
The Purple Room serves up a full weekend of cabaret brilliance starting Friday and Saturday, October 3–4 with Billy Stritch: All For You. Known for his work with Liza Minnelli and Tony Bennett, Stritch brings a sophisticated blend of Broadway, Bossa Nova, and Great American Songbook classics, joined by Trey Henry on bass and Rick Montalbano on drums. Then on Sunday, October 5, The Judy Show! takes the stage with a high-energy tribute to Judy Garland and other icons, blending comedy, music, and nostalgia into one unforgettable evening. Get tickets
Blink-182
Blink-182 brings their Missionary Impossible Tour to Acrisure Arena for two shows: on Saturday & Sunday, October 4 & 5 at 7 pm, reuniting Mark Hoppus, Tom DeLonge, and Travis Barker for a high-octane night of punk rock nostalgia and new hits. Following the release of their chart-topping album One More Time …, the trio dives deep into their iconic catalog with a setlist built for longtime fans and new listeners alike. Get tickets
Palm Springs Vintage Market Returns
The Palm Springs Vintage Market returns Sunday, October 5 from 7 am–2 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs. After a summer break, this beloved monthly event kicks off its fall season with a curated mix of retro treasures, reclaimed finds, and mid-century gems. Held the first Sunday of each month through May, the market offers a vibrant community vibe where locals and visitors connect over vintage style and timeless design. More info
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
Epson Tour Golf Championship
The Epson Tour Championship returns to Indian Wells Golf Resort from Thursday to Sunday, October 2–5, bringing the season finale of the LPGA’s official qualifying tour to the Coachella Valley. Played on the Celebrity Course, this high-stakes tournament features 108 elite athletes competing for a $250,000 purse and the final chance to earn LPGA Tour cards for 2026. The event offers fans a front-row seat to the future stars of women’s golf. More info
Los Angeles Lakers Preseason Opener
The Los Angeles Lakers return to the Coachella Valley on Friday, October 3 from 7–9:30 pm to kick off their 2025–26 preseason at Acrisure Arena with a high-profile matchup against the Phoenix Suns. The game marks the team’s third consecutive year in the desert, continuing a legacy that dates back to the Showtime era when the valley served as the Lakers’ training camp home. Following back-to-back sold-out appearances, fans can expect a thrilling night of basketball as the Purple and Gold reignite their roots in Greater Palm Springs. Get tickets
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 October 3–12. 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
Rumours of Fleetwood Mac
Rumours of Fleetwood Mac takes the stage at The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa on Friday, October 3 at 8 pm for a tribute concert that captures the magic and mystique of one of rock’s most iconic bands. Personally endorsed by Mick Fleetwood, the performance channels the energy and emotion of Fleetwood Mac’s legendary catalog, offering fans a chance to relive timeless hits in a stunning live setting. Get tickets
Snow Guessing Contest Begins
❄️ Think you can predict the first snowfall atop Mt. San Jacinto? The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway’s Annual Snow Guessing Contest returns October 1! Submit your best-guess date by postcard (no, really) for a chance to win Tram tickets and a special gift. Let the snow speculation begin: 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 WEEK
Friday, October 3
Drag Bingo/Trivia Nights (alternating) | 4:30–7 pm at Arrive Hotel
Food Truck Fridays | 5–10 pm in Downtown Indio
Saturday, October 4
Solar Sessions at Royal Sun Palm Springs | 12–6 pm
