The confluence of Halloween and Leather Pride in Palm Springs is a once in a blue moon occurrence. And yet, here we are.
There’s a great exhibition by the LGBTQ+ History and Archives project (of which I’m a board member) on display this weekend at Hotel Zoso.
As each letter of our community, each stripe of our rainbow flag seeks understanding and acceptance, this walk through our history is worth taking in. Every color of the Leather Pride flag has its own meaning as does the Gilbert flag flying high over Arenas.
The gay leather subculture emerged from the social and political turmoil of post-World War II America. It was significantly influenced by gay soldiers returning from the war who, often alienated from mainstream society and discharged with “Blue Discharges” for their homosexuality, became catalysts for this movement. No surprise that many of these men took to the big cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco. Women played a role, too, as you’ll see in the exhibition.
Cathedral City was once the “leather and kink capital of the Coachella Valley,” with venues like The Barracks (originally Wolf’s Den, opened 1992) establishing a regional identity before Palm Springs developed its own scene. The enduring importance of this physical location is evidenced by the eventual opening of the Eagle Cathedral City in the same space once occupied by The Barracks.
In 1994, PSLOD (Palm Springs Leather Order of the Desert) was formed. Leather Pride dates back to at least 1997, which you can view at the exhibition. This weekend, thousands are visiting in garb that may be confused for a Halloween costume. But don’t refer to their dress that way. Instead, they use terms such as gear or attire.
There’s a big history lesson on our leather community when you visit Hotel Zoso this weekend. Or just walk the streets of Palm Springs for the visuals and try to guess whether or not it’s a Halloween costume.
Brad Fuhr, your K-Gay Desert Guide
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Palm Springs Leather Pride 2025
Palm Springs Leather Pride 2025: Gods of Leather runs from Thursday–Sunday, October 30–November 2 with four days of bold gear, global camaraderie, and unapologetic celebration. From pool parties at CCBC and the infamous Dark Alley Marketplace to speaker series, cigar socials, and the Mr. Palm Springs Leather contest, this all-access weekend blends kink, community, and connection. Hosted at Hotel Zoso and venues across Palm Springs, it’s the ultimate gathering for leather lovers, fetish enthusiasts, and curious newcomers alike. Come for the gear—stay for the brotherhood. Check out our event listing for a detailed rundown of all the Leather Pride events: Get tickets
Unbridled Spirit: Celebrating 35 Years of Leather in Palm Springs
The LGBTQ+ History & Archives of the Desert presents Unbridled Spirit: Celebrating 35 Years of Leather in Palm Springs, an exhibition exploring the significant impact of the leather community on the Coachella Valley. Curated by Mike Király, the exhibit runs at Hotel Zoso throughout Leather Pride weekend. Admission is free, with viewing hours from 11 am–8 pm Friday and Saturday, and 11 am–3 pm on Sunday. More info
Two Nights of Halloween on Arenas
Get ready for two nights of dance parties during Halloween on Arenas in the Arenas District! The celebration kicks off with Dance Party #1, “The Masked Party,” on Friday, October 31 from 4–10 pm, featuring entertainment from Dev, Meaty Beats by Juan, DJ Modgirl, and DJ Jeffree. The excitement continues with Dance Party #2, “The Unmasking: Leather Fetish Fantasy,” on Saturday, November 1 from 4–10 pm, with special performances by DJ Luciana and DJ Hector Fonseca. Both nights offer free admission with a suggested $10 donation to support LGBTQ+ charities, and feature a Halloween costume contest. More info
HOT DEAL ALERT: Snag a BOGO deal for VIP tickets to Saturday’s The Unmasking: Leather Fetish Fantasy! Buy one for $85 and get one FREE! That’s a $170 value, getting 2 tickets for just $85. Available Friday only, and must be picked up at the Gay Desert Guide office by 4 pm. Shop now
Pride on the Page Book Festival
Pride on the Page returns to the Palm Springs Cultural Center on Saturday, November 1 for a full day of literary celebration featuring LGBTQIA+ authors, poets, and publishers. From 10 am–5 pm, panels and readings will explore queer fiction, oral histories, poetry, and the publishing process. Then, from 7–9 pm, special guest Chris Colfer will appear in conversation about his celebrated work and advocacy. Attendees can also enjoy book signings, local author showcases, and updates on the Palm Springs Public Library renovation. The event takes place throughout the Camelot Theatre and outdoor tent, with storytelling, connection, and community pride. Get tickets
KGAY Out and About at Nola at Escena
KGAY goes Out & About with John Taylor on Sunday, November 2 from 11 am–1 pm at Escena Golf Club for a live broadcast spotlighting Nola at Escena—a stunning enclave of luxury single-story homes with sleek architecture, private pools, and panoramic golf course views. Guests can tour the newly re-opened model home, meet the team, and register to win tickets to see Duran Duran at Acrisure Arena. Tune in and experience the lifestyle where every morning begins with the gentle whisper of luxury. More info
International Imperial Court System 60th Anniversary
Join Courtiers from across North America in Palm Springs to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee 60th Anniversary of the International Imperial Court System (IICS), one of the world’s oldest and largest LGBTQ+ charitable organizations. The four-day celebration at the Renaissance Palm Springs Hotel runs from Thursday–Sunday, October 30–November 2. The weekend is packed with events, including the Welcome Maple Leaf Mixer, the Denim & Diamonds night, the grand 60th Anniversary Gala, and the Crowning of King Father II of the Americas, concluding with a Sunday Poolside Brunch. More info
Agua Caliente Casinos Celebrate Halloween
Agua Caliente Casinos are pulling out all the stops for Halloween weekend, October 31–November 2! Head to Cathedral City for the After Dark Halloween Bash on Friday at 8 pm featuring Empire Records and DJ Ebony, plus a costume contest with $1,800 in cash prizes. Sip spooky $10 cocktails all weekend, catch Nacho Bustillos live on Saturday, and explore more thrills at Rancho Mirage with Mammoth featuring Myles Kennedy on Friday and Lance Burton: Master Magician and Friends on Saturday. More info
Scoop Palm Springs Ice Cream Festival
Get ready for the sweetest Sunday in the desert—Scoop Palm Springs Ice Cream Festival debuts November 2 from 12–4 pm at Downtown Park. Sample creamy creations from top local vendors, groove to music from Modgirl, and enjoy family-friendly fun including an interactive kids art exhibit. Your $35 ticket gets you ten tasty samples, and every scoop supports the Palm Springs LGBTQ Center’s Community Food Bank. Come for the flavor, stay for the impact. More info
Priscilla, Queen of the Desert
Palm Canyon Theatre rolls out the glittery road trip adventure with Priscilla Queen of the Desert, running October 24–November 16. This high-energy musical follows three drag queens across the Australian outback, packed with dazzling costumes, iconic pop anthems, and a heartfelt celebration of identity, friendship, and fabulousness. Get tickets
The Inheritance – Part 2
The Bent Theatre Company presents The Inheritance – Part 2 at the Palm Springs Cultural Center/Camelot Theatre, running through Sunday, November 2. Inspired by E.M. Forster’s Howards End, this sweeping drama explores three generations of gay men as they navigate survival, identity, and the meaning of home. Whether or not you saw Part One, audiences will be seamlessly caught up before diving into this emotional journey of connection, reckoning, and renewal. Adult content; nudity included. Get tickets
The Cottage
Broadway’s killer comedy The Cottage runs through Sunday, 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
Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical
Kick off the holiday season with Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical at the McCallum Theatre, Sunday, November 2 at 1 pm and 6 pm and Monday, November 3 at 7 pm. This Broadway hit brings Whoville to life with dazzling sets, beloved songs like “You’re A Mean One Mr. Grinch,” and a heartwarming tale narrated by Max the Dog. Perfect for all ages, it’s a festive celebration of joy, mischief, and the true spirit of Christmas. Get tickets
Living Healthy Expo
The Living Healthy Expo is Saturday, November 1 from 9 am–2 pm at the Cathedral City Community Amphitheater. This premier wellness event brings together local businesses, health experts, and community partners for a day of interactive exhibits, free health screenings, cooking demos, and family-friendly activities—including a dedicated kids’ zone. Attendees can enjoy giveaways, sample products, and even meet Food Network “Chopped” champion Chef Antonello Zito and Patrick Evans of NewsChannel 3 and MeTV FM as they share their favorite healthy recipes. More info
Opera Under the Stars
Palm Springs Opera Guild joins The Coachella Valley Symphony for a magical evening of Opera Under the Stars on Saturday, November 1 from 6–8 pm. Held at the Rancho Mirage Amphitheater, this open-air concert features four professional opera singers backed by the full symphony, creating a stirring night of music beneath the desert sky. Proceeds benefit both organizations. More info
Palm Springs Vintage Market
The Palm Springs Vintage Market returns Sunday, November 2 from 7 am–2 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs. This open-air market is a monthly favorite from October through May, offering a curated mix of retro treasures, antiques, and reclaimed finds. With friendly vendors, a welcoming community vibe, and a focus on authentic Mid Century style, it’s the perfect place to browse, connect, and “capture vintage with a view.” More info
Hansel and Gretel
Palm Canyon Theatre welcomes audiences to a charming, family-friendly adaptation of Hansel and Gretel, running this Saturday & Sunday, November 1 & 2. Presented by Doug Nagel and Coachella Valley Classical Voices, this abridged version of Humperdinck’s opera blends classic storytelling with a touch of Spanish flair, making it a magical experience for all ages. Get tickets
