It’s been 55 years since the Stonewall uprising and many of the people who were there are no longer with ‘here’. We lost another one this week when Drag Performer William “Bijou” Perez died at age 94.
KGAY’s John Taylor captured a letter from Bijou being read aloud at the Drag4Drag rally in 2023: “I’m glad I have an opportunity to speak, but now it’s your turn to speak on my behalf. I have no regrets looking back, but I would definitely not want you to go back to Stonewall 1969 where I fought back,” Perez said.
I’m a part of the LGBTQ+ History and Archives of the Desert, where we are trying desperately to record and preserve the stories of those who had such a rich history. It’s important that future generations know the history of our community.
This includes gathering both physical assets like magazines posters and like. But we are also undertaking an oral archives project where we will be recording subjects at the KGAY studios. Soon we will be accepting nominations for those whose stories should be preserved. We’ll be starting this fall to capture these pieces of our LGBTQ+ history for the ages.
One person who captured decades of LGBTQ+ history is Nicholas Snow. His documentary Tinseltown’s Queer: 30 Years Later will be shown at Cinema Diverse Saturday morning. I’ve known Nicholas since those LA days, and have been proud to partner with him for content and counsel over the 11 years that Gay Desert Guide has been in existence.
Whose story of gay history do you know that would make a good subject for our archives? Hold that thought as we get ready to gather nominations so those stories can live on for generations.
Brad Fuhr, your Gay Desert Guide on KGAY 106.5 Palm Springs
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The Dinah 2024
The Dinah Weekend 2024, the world’s largest event for lesbian and queer women, is underway all weekend at the Riviera (rebranded from Margaritaville) Resort in Palm Springs. This iconic festival, renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and inclusive spirit, will feature a stellar lineup of performers including Lauren Jauregui, King Mala, Iniko, and many more. Attendees can look forward to a mix of live music, pool parties, and electrifying nightlife, creating an unforgettable celebration of community and culture. Check out our event listing for a full breakdown of all the parties: Get tickets
Cinema Diverse 2024 – Weekend 2
The 17th anniversary celebration of LGBTQ+ cinema at Cinema Diverse 2024 continues for Weekend Two this Thursday–Sunday, September 26–29. The Palm Springs Cultural Center hosts this vibrant film festival, showcasing a diverse array of feature films and short films from around the world. Palm Springs resident Nicholas Snow’s Tinseltown’s Queer: 30 Years Later screens on Saturday at 9:30 am. Audience members will have the chance to experience the magic of cinema and connect with filmmakers, actors, and fellow movie lovers. See our event listing for the full schedule of screenings: Get tickets
Catch this Cinema Diverse highlight on Friday, September 27 at 4:30 pm: The 2024 Director’s Cut of “Gay Men’s Guide to Safer Sex ’97” is a pivotal piece in LGBTQ+ cinematic history. The original 1992 and 1997 films broke new ground by providing direct, no-nonsense sexual health information to gay men, challenging UK censorship norms with their explicit content. The 1997 film, featuring the iconic Aiden Shaw, continued this tradition. Following the screening, there will be a Q&A session with the film’s director, Rob Falconer, and Dr. Phyllis Ritchie of PS Test, offering deeper insights into the film’s impact and ongoing relevance. Get tickets
Cinema Diverse also presents the world premiere of Witchy Ways on Friday, September 27 at 6 pm. Writer/Director Jane Clark (Meth Head, Crazy Bitches) returns with a supernatural film inspired by Practical Magic: Eve (Diora Baird) quits the rat race and heads to a cabin to rediscover herself. There she finds herself falling for dynamic property owner, Danni (Marem Hassler). As they grow closer, Danni confesses she is a witch, but hides a ghostly secret that threatens to destroy their fragile relationship. Co-starring Candis Cayne as Eve’s best friend and Marc “Skippy” Price (Family Ties) as the angry neighbor. Get tickets
Play Café & Lounge 1 Year Anniversary Celebration
Play Café & Lounge is celebrating their one-year anniversary on Saturday, September 28 starting at 4 pm. In their words: “Only 10% of new restaurants last their first year and you all made it happen for us! We are celebrating YOU and celebrating PLAY. Come hang out and play games, win prizes and have fun with friends.” More info
This Weekend at The Purple Room
This weekend at the Purple Room in Palm Springs promises a delightful lineup of entertainment. On Friday, September 27, Chuck Sweeney will dazzle audiences with his acclaimed tribute show, “Peggy’s Back! Chuck Sweeney as Miss Peggy Lee,” bringing the legendary singer’s charm and music to life. The following night, Saturday, September 28, Grammy-nominated singer/songwriter Clint Holmes will present “Icons Reimagined,” a unique performance where he reinterprets songs by iconic artists from movies and Broadway. The weekend culminates on Sunday, September 29, with “The Judy Show,” featuring Michael Holmes’ hilarious and musical parody of Judy Garland and her famous guests, promising an evening of nonstop laughs and glamour. Get tickets
“We’re Not Dead Yet” Comedy Show
Comedians Jason Stuart and Julie Goldman (#DumbGayPolitics) are headlining We’re Not Dead Yet! on Saturday, September 28 at 8 pm at Revolution Stage Company. Two of the most dynamic, outrageous stand-up comedians are coming together in one show! Both have been major forces in the world of stand-up and groundbreakers in LGBTQ comedy for over 30 years, and both are over 50 in a time where most performers are on their knees at the fountain of youth. Join them for an evening of LOL stand up comedy. Get tickets
Stephanie Theobald “Sex Drive” Book Launch
Stephanie Theobald presents the launch of her new book Sex Drive on Saturday, September 28 at 4 pm at the LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert. Sex Drive is a memoir about desire, pleasure and loss, merging sexuality and spirituality, eighteenth-century porn and French Enlightenment philosophy. A new sexual revolution has begun – and this time, women are in the driving seat. The event will include a game of “Solo Sex Bingo” and prizes. More info
Kick Bullying to the Curb Wellness Festival
The 2nd Annual Kick Bullying To The Curb Wellness Festival by Boo2Bullying is set for Saturday, September 28, from 10 am–3 pm at the Palm Springs Power Stadium. Attendees can enjoy family-friendly activities such as glitter bracelets, balloon animals, face-painting, and a petting zoo. Boo2Bullying and community partners will host information booths, and there will be a celebrity kickball game featuring Coachella Valley notables and Hollywood actors. The festival aims to provide outreach, mentoring, and hope to bullied youth and their families. Advance registration recommended. More info
Debbie Gibson
On Friday, September 27, Oscar’s Palm Springs will host Debbie Gibson for a special event: “Acoustic Youth: Songs & Stories from the Electric Youth Era.” This intimate performance will feature Debbie at the piano, sharing stories and performing her classic hits in their purest form. The show starts at 7 pm, with doors opening at 5 pm for dinner and drinks in the outdoor courtyard. Fans can expect a nostalgic evening under the desert stars, celebrating the 35th anniversary of her iconic album Electric Youth. Get tickets
Palm Springs International Comedy Festival – LGBTQ+ Extravaganza
The Palm Springs International Comedy Festival is back this weekend, featuring a variety of comedy shows, films, Q&As, and parties. A highlight of the festival is the LGBTQ Comedy Extravaganza on Friday, September 27 at 7 pm at the Mary Pickford Theatre, promising a night of laughter and celebration of LGBTQ talent, including Pandora Boxx, Zach Noe Towers, Kelly Mantle, Jared Goldstein, and introducing Miranda Perry. Hosted by the legendary Tommi Rose. More details on our event listing: Get tickets
Riverside Pride BBQ Jam
The Riverside PRIDE BBQ Jam is set to take place on Saturday, September 28, from 12–8 pm. This free family-friendly event will feature a vibrant mix of music, food, artists, and games. Attendees can enjoy performances by DJs and drag artists, along with a variety of delicious treats from local vendors. The event aims to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community with a lively block party atmosphere, offering activities for all ages. While admission is free, tickets are required and can be obtained in advance from the event’s official page. Get tickets
Michael’s House Recovery Festival
Join Michael’s House in celebrating the strength and resilience of those on their recovery journey at their Recovery Festival on Saturday, September 28 from 4–6:30 pm at the Michael’s House Outpatient Center in Palm Springs. This free event will feature inspiring talks from alumni speakers Ken Forstrom and Hany Samaan, and motivational insights from Sonny Von Cleveland. Enjoy delicious food, exciting games, a fun photo booth, and great music. Families are welcome, with activities like a bounce house, face painting, and balloons for kids. More info
Jerry Seinfeld
Jerry Seinfeld, the master of observational comedy, is set to perform live at The Show at Agua Caliente Casino this Saturday, September 28 in a SOLD OUT show. Fear not, he returns on Saturday, March 8, 2025 and tickets are on sale now. Known for his iconic sitcom “Seinfeld” and his Emmy-nominated Netflix specials, Seinfeld continues to captivate audiences with his witty insights and timeless humor. Get tickets
Sunnylands Films in the Gardens: ParaNorman
Sunnylands presents its popular Films in the Gardens series, this week featuring ParaNorman on Friday, September 27 at 7:30 pm. In the animated film ParaNorman (2012), a misunderstood boy who can speak to the dead must save his town from a centuries-old curse involving ghosts, zombies, and witches. Enjoy this free outdoor movie night; bring your lawn chairs, blankets, and small picnics to the beautiful gardens of Sunnylands Center & Gardens in Rancho Mirage, perfect for a cozy evening under the stars. More info
ALSO THIS WEEKEND
Friday, September 27
Morongo Thunder & Lightning Powwow | Fri–Sun at Morongo Casino Resort & Spa
Country Dance Fridays: Beginner Shadow with Rob Ollander-Krane | 7 pm at Step by Step
17th Annual Palm Springs Mind Body Spirit Weekend | Friday–Sunday at Crystal Fantasy
BearUnion | 8 am–4 pm at Club 541
REO Speedwagon | RESCHEDULED to December 8 at 8 pm at The Show
Saturday, September 28
Torch Relay Benefitting Children’s Hospital LA | 8 am at Marriott’s Desert Springs Villas
Palm Springs Certified Farmers’ Market | 8 am–1 pm indoors at the Palm Springs Pavilion
Palm Springs Police Dept. “Behind the Badge” Open House | 3–6 pm at 200 S. Civic Drive
See all events at GayDesertGuide.com
