Brad Fuhr

When Palm Springs was a weekend getaway destination for me, one of my favorite spots was Azul & George’s Alibi at 369 N. Palm Canyon. The outdoor bar and swinging seats holds fond memories. It’s been mostly vacant for years now. (Last time I was there I got COVID after watching Big Freedia. But I digress.)

I parked on a dirt lot at Alejo and Palm Canyon which had been vacant for years. Signs pronounced “Coming Soon: Port Lawrence, a residential development with resort amenities,” according to the New York Times. Now, some 17 years later, The Thompson Hotel,  one of Hyatt’s lifestyle brands, has opened on that site!

I’ve been watching the progress wax and wane over the years, but when the Hall family took it over the finish line was in sight. Kelly Teo, Thompson’s marketing director, took me on a hard hat tour in May of 2023 and it was impressive even while the scaffolding was still up.

Now, the connection between Uptown and Downtown is complete. The hotel is open, as is Lola Rose restaurant, which I had the pleasure of sampling last week. You’ll still see work happening on the site as retail and the remainder of the rooms are finished. Another eyesore converted to a beautiful architectural gem for our city!

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

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Pride Under the Pines

Pride Under Pines 2024 banner

Pride Under The Pines, produced by PS Homeboys and proudly sponsored by KGAY & Gay Desert Guide, is set to be an exciting celebration of diversity and community, on Saturday, October 5 from 12–9 pm in Idyllwild—Act fast to get your half-off KGAY Party Bus ticket HOT DEAL by noon on Friday!—This year’s event will feature headlining performances by Kristine W and the charismatic John Duff and hosted by Sabryna Williams. Attendees can also look forward to a drag show, Boozehounds Tea & Shade by the Lunchettes, a screening of Hairspray (2007), and beats by DJ Galaxy of KGAY’s Retro Lunch. Stop by the KGAY booth and enter to win a BearCruise.com Rhine River “Bear”varian Christmas Markets cruise! Get tickets


One Night Out Rio

Heart of Samba

Get ready to be swept away by the vibrant energy of Rio de Janeiro at One Night Out Rio on Saturday, October 5 from 6–10 pm at the Palm Springs Air Museum. This blockbuster event promises an unforgettable evening filled with delicious food, refreshing cocktails, and mesmerizing Brazilian entertainment, all in support of The Foundation for Palm Springs Unified School District. The highlight of the night will be a spectacular performance by Heart of Samba, featuring the charismatic Bruno Alcantara from RuPaul’s Drag Race Pit Crew. Experience the kaleidoscopic euphoria of a Brazilian Carnival right here in Palm Springs! Get tickets


Hokus Pokus Live

Hokus Pokus Live crop

Hokus Pokus Live is a 90-minute parody of the classic ’90s movie, coming to Hotel Zoso on Friday, Saturday, & Sunday, October 4, 5 & 6 (Fri/Sat at 7 pm, Sun at 2 pm). Set in 2024, the Sanderson Sisters are back, trying to stay alive and younger in the new millennium. Join Ginger Minj, Gidget Galore, and Aria Hard for this madcap musical misadventure! Don’t miss this magical live performance. Get tickets


Palm Springs Car Show and Festival

PS Car Show 2024 crop

The Palm Springs Chamber of Commerce is hosting a Car Show & Festival on Saturday, October 5 from 10 am–4 pm in Downtown Palm Springs. This event will feature a stunning array of classic cars, exotics, street rods, trucks, muscle cars, sports cars, and antique vehicles. Attendees can enjoy live entertainment, a custom dog park for pets, Marilyn lookalike and cutest dog contests and more. Stick around for a free concert in the park by The Dreamboats at 6 pm. It’s a fantastic opportunity for car enthusiasts and families to come together and enjoy a day filled with automotive beauty, and community spirit! More info


This Weekend at The Purple Room

Janis Siegel
Janis Siegel
Chadwick Johnson
Chadwick Johnson

The Purple Room Supper Club has an exciting lineup of performances this weekend: On Friday, October 4, Janis Siegel, a nine-time Grammy winner and member of The Manhattan Transfer, will be performing alongside pianist Yaron Gershovsky. This evening promises to be filled with jazz and soulful melodies. On Saturday, October 5, Chadwick Johnson will present Fire and Rain: Singer Songwriters of the ’70s, taking the audience on a nostalgic journey through the music of the 1970s with his powerful voice and heartfelt interpretations. Finally, on Sunday, October 6, The Judy Show! will offer a lively and entertaining performance featuring impersonations, comedy, and classic hits. Get tickets


House Party PS: It’s a Mod Mod World

It's a Mod Mod World

The Richmond/Ermet Aid Foundation, Byron Hancock and Len Handeland invite you to House Party PS: It’s a Mod Mod World on Saturday, October 5 from 5–8 pm, celebrating all things Mid-Century in Byron and Len’s fully remodeled mid-century home that was featured in last year’s Mid-Century Modern Home Tours. This special party benefits Safe Schools Desert Cities, a unique organization that protects LGBT kids from bullying and helps promote safe environments in the Coachella Valley’s Desert Cities schools. Admission includes open bar, appetizers, and performances by Sharon Sills, Charles Herrera & Christine Nunez. 60’s colorful attire recommended! Get tickets


Dial “M” for Murder

Dial M for Murder

Desert Theatreworks presents Dial “M” for Murder, opening Friday, October 4 and running through Sunday, October 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


Sundew

Sundue

Palm Canyon Theatre presents Larry Parr’s Sundew on October 5, 6, 11, & 12. A powerful, touching story of an eccentric old woman, desperately clinging to wooded property she believes is the real, Biblical Eden, Sundew is about the spiritual ramifications of ecology, and it is also about personal sacrifice for the protection of the gift of earth. Get tickets


PS Candidates Forum 2024

Candidate Forum

ONE-PS (Organized Neighborhoods of Palm Springs) presents a Candidates Forum on Saturday, October 5 at 1 pm at Demuth Park Community Center, moderated by Palm Springs Post Editor Mark Talkington. Candidates include: District 4: Ernest Ceceña, Joe Jackson, Anna Nevenic, David Rios, and Naomi Soto. From District 5: David Ready. More info


Will Rollins Ice Cream Social

Ice Cream Social Will Rollins

“Get the Scoop” on getting out the vote at the Will Rollins Ice Cream Social on Sunday, October 6 from 2–4 pm in Palm Springs. Congressman Adam Schiff and Senator Barbara Boxer will also be in attendance. Address provided 48 hours prior to event. More info


Palm Springs Certified Farmers’ Market Returns to Outdoor Location

PS Certified Farmers Market - Outside

The Palm Springs Certified Farmers Market is returning to its outdoor location from October through May at the Palm Springs Cultural Center parking lot, starting October 5 from 8 am–1 pm. This market offers a vibrant selection of fresh local produce, herbs, honey, nuts, cheese, cut flowers, and freshly baked breads. Visitors can also enjoy live music, making it a delightful community event. More info

For all events go to the GayDesertGuide.com

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