As we fall into autumn and “season” is upon us, there are quite a few happenings that need some advance planning. All of them require lodging, so you know what to do.

New additions to downtown

Bar Issi — Restaurateurs Marissa and Matt Hermer’s new establishment has everyone saying “Bar Cecil who?” But don’t you say that — there’s enough love to go around for all of the “bar restaurants” and on the upside maybe you can finally get into Bar Cecil! 

Ash and Vine — Matt Resler is announced as chef de cuisine, and they are currently having a soft open. If you know where French Miso used to be, it’s there. If not, it is in La Plaza, but in the little “alleyway” where the chauffeur apartments used to be. It is beautifully landscaped and home to the biggest cactus I have ever seen. There are also art shops along the way. Winzer Records recently moved, so look for something to occupy that prime spot in the future. 

Coffeeism — Website under construction, and so is the cafe. Slated to open this fall at 110 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way, in the former Olive A’ Sudden gourmet market space. The concept is described as Scandinavian-inspired and mid-century modern, emphasizing craftsmanship, community, and quality coffee. The shop will serve Intelligentsia Coffee, ceremonial-grade organic matcha and teas from Kilogram, and artisanal pastries sourced from local chefs, including gluten-free options.

The owner and operator is Guillaume Galataud, a hospitality professional with over three decades of experience, including managing the launch of Bootlegger Tiki and serving as general manager at SOPA at L’Horizon. Coffeeism Co. is his first solo project. Located in the historic Liebling Trust Building, Galataud aims to create a space for locals and visitors to “slow down, connect, and enjoy a thoughtfully crafted cup.”

HotCookie — Established in 1997 in San Francisco’s Castro District, they are known for their large selection of freshly-baked, chewy cookies, their notorious penis and vagina cookies, and a wall of hot customers posing in their signature Hot Cookie underwear. What better choice for a new location than Palm Springs? 155 S. Palm Canyon, where Jus’ Chillin’ used to be, and where HotCookie will be shortly.

Cravings — It’s at 102 E. Amado, Suite A, right between Indian and Palm Canyon. Their pastries look fantastic. Cravings opened last November, but has been riding under my radar. Locked in now. 

Drag and Fly Tours — Operating on the weekends through the summer. Just click, then buy. It’ll be fun.

Tickets on sale for future events

Palm Springs International Film Festival (January 2026)

Modernism Week 2026 goes on sale Nov. 1.

September events

The Final Dinah — This year’s event is being billed as the “Dinah Grand Finale,” as event promoter Mariah Hanson is stepping away after 34 years. The lineup includes stars like Kate Moennig and Leisha Hailey from The L Word, Princess Nokia, Crystal Waters, and other rising stars and LGBTQ+ talent.

Palm Springs Women’s Jazz Festival — This festival will feature pioneering women artists shaping the sound of blues music. The festival starts on Sept. 19 at 6:30 p.m.

October events

Modernism October — It’s the small event prior to the big one in February. It’s got all the fun, just less days of it.

Pre-Pride LBGTQ+ activities

Palm Springs Leather Pride — A weekend of events celebrating the leather community, coinciding with the 60th Anniversary of the International Imperial Court System and Halloween on Arenas Road. 

2025 IGLTA Global Convention — Hosted in Palm Springs Oct. 21-25, this convention focuses on LGBTQ+ tourism and offers educational and networking opportunities. It’s considered the premier event for the global LGBTQ+ tourism industry and will be held at the Palm Springs Convention Center.

Center Stage Gala 2025 — The 2025 Center Stage Gala is scheduled for Oct. 17, celebrating the LGBTQ+ community at the Palm Springs Air Museum.

RuPaul’s Drag Race live at Agua Caliente Casino in Rancho Mirage on Oct. 11. 

You’re going to want to start planning your hotel stay for Pride now. Here are all the men’s resorts — they book up fast.

I think that’s it, but we’re growing so fast something is probably cooking even as I type. For now, the most important things to remember: sunscreen, a bathing suit (or two), shop and stay local, and random acts of kindness.