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It’s Too Damn Hot: July Events In Palm Springs

“If you saw a heat wave, would you wave back?” — Steven Wright

The heat is on. Just walking to your car is like doing hot yoga without doing the yoga. But honestly? It’s still paradise. The skies are the bluest, the mountains remain majestic, and the nights are always blanketed with a billion stars. Pair that with a cocktail in the pool, and that’s the Palm Springs way. We’ve got that laid-back, small town feel, but I humbly submit that we are the 5-star, A+ rated, James Beard version.

July isn’t really hopping with activities because triple digits, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t fun things to do. (For the Independence Day celebrations, check out our blog post here). We also have some upcoming posts about places to stay in Palm Springs that will keep you well fed and full of libations without ever having to leave the pool — because if you can’t be in the A/C, you’ll want to be in the water.

In the meantime, check out these events that’ll keep you happy outside of your resort during your stay in Palm Springs:

Palm Springs POWER Baseball
Recurring weekly on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays until July 16.

Arrive Hotel

Mondays and Tuesdays: Night Swim, 7 to 10 p.m., no fee for guests. Locals can reserve a spot for $10.

Wednesdays: Dive-in Movie. Watch a flick poolside on the giant inflatable screen, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. 7 p.m. showtime.

Fridays: Poolside BBQ & Yappy Hour,  3 to 6 p.m. Enjoy Happy Hour specials, complimentary dog treats, and BBQ favorites available for purchase

Saturdays: Pool Party from noon to 6 p.m., with DJs spinning from start to finish. Limited day passes available for locals.

Sundays: Bottomless Mimosas at Brunch. $30+tax per person, with a two-hour time limit.

Palm Springs Cultural Center/Camelot Theaters

July 2: Mamma Mia! Sing-a-long 

Indoor Palm Springs Certified Farmers Market
Recurring weekly on Saturdays until Sept. 3

Agua Caliente Cascade Lounge

Jul 1: Cascade Nights Dance Party

Mondays: Mimosas, Martinis & Music with Don Wardell

Thursdays: Jazzville

Fridays: Caliente Comedy

Sundays: Latin Nights

That’s Amore! Photo courtesy of PS Underground

PS Underground

Three-course gourmet meals with a crazy good explosion of musical creativity and talent.

July 8: “That’s Amoré” — Gilmore Rizzo talks and sings about growing up Italian.

July 10: Cheese Brunch — cheesy songs, cheesy menu.

July 16: “The Sunny Side of the Street” — a tribute to Frank and Ella with Keisha D & Tod Macofsky.

July 17: Broadway Blind Brunch — one Broadway show and composer. Which one will it be?

July 22: Light — it’s the mack daddy of their shows. It’s pricey — $249 plus tax — but oh so special.

Desert Rose Playhouse

The only LGBTQ Theater in the valley. And they’re SO good.

Crimes of the Heart — through July 3.

I Dreamed a Dream Girl  — a two-man journey through stories and music, with the stars of Bravo’s The People’s Couch. One night only, July 9.

Grey Gardens — Big Edie and Little Edie Bouvier Beale were bright names on the social register, before becoming East Hampton’s most notorious recluses. It’s a musical! July 22 through 29.

V Wine Lounge. Courtesy of Visit Palm Springs

V Wine Lounge 

Retro wine lounge in a historic Hugh Kaptur building on Tahquitz (TAAH-quits). Don’t be fooled by the photo — that’s just the bar. There are a bunch of other set pieces as well as a very large patio.

Mondays: LeAnna and Miguel

Tuesdays: I ❤️ Taco Tuesday

Wednesdays: Karaoke

Oscar’s

Jazz, comedy, dinner, drag, and a tee dance, All are welcome.

July 1: Yve Evans — I love, love, love this woman and her music. Equal parts jazz pianist, jazz vocalist, and “jazz” comedian, she’s unique and super talented.

July 8: Nadya Ginsburg presents Anxious and Dangerous! The producer and star of the critically acclaimed Madonnalogues brings her new stand-up show, Anxious and Dangerous! to the desert. “Madonna” and “Cher” appear as special guests. Called “the woman of 1,000 voices,” she’s played New York, Los Angeles, and London stages, and has appeared in network television and feature film.

Wednesdays: Marc Antonelli’s Sultry Summer Nights, followed by The Marc & Tony Show.

Saturdays: Bitchiest Brunch (also Sundays), Mimosa Men, and Oscar’s Cabaret celebrate the great women of song. As it says in the description: “We’ve hired the best men for the job.”

An inside view of the Palm Springs Art Museum. Photo courtesy of Visit Palm Springs

Palm Springs Art Museum 
Thursday evenings are free from 5 to 7 p.m.

Exhibitions: Outburst: Mr. Wash (ends July 3); Gonzalo Lebrija: Miracle of the Eternal Present, (ends October 2); Pattern Play: The Contemporary Designs of Jacqueline Groag (ends Nov. 20); Leon Polk Smith: 1945-1962 (ends August 28)

Summer Film Series: Y Tu Mama Tambien on July 28

Various events

July 6: Backstreet Art District Art Walk — held the first Wednesday of every month.

Thursdays: Village Fest — a festive, pedestrian street fair on Palm Canyon Drive. 7 to 10 p.m. Perimeters are Indian Canyon Drive to the east, Belardo Road to the west. Vendor booths are set up on both sides of the street, and visitors are able to stroll through the traffic-free event.

July 16: Comedy at the Kimpton on the rooftop — the rooftop bar is one of the best views in town.

CannaBus Express Tours — what Silicon Valley is to tech, cannabis is to the Coachella Valley. One of the best tours you’ll ever take is the CannaBUS Express Tour. Learn all about the cannabis industry as you ride in an air-conditioned Mercedes Sprinter, from growing to distilling to distribution — and finally to some local dispensaries, using the CannaBus discount. Your tour guide is sassy and you’ll have fun while you’re learning.

The Palm Springs Aerial Tram on its way to cooler temperatures. Photo courtesy of Visit Palm Springs

Don’t forget about the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. It’s way cooler up there.

New restaurant alert! It’s fast food, but come on, it’s freakin’ I ❤️ Mac & Cheese. And it’s open very late!

The Mom Factor: I’m not a mom, so I’m not yours. But I’m gonna mom you. Wear sunscreen, drink plenty of water, then repeat. A lot.

Don’t forget to shop and stay local, and if you come visit, please tag us on your Instagram posts. Our Instagram; our tag #pspsh. Thanks, you’re swell!

I’m gonna be here again next month, yacking away about all things Palm Springs. Hope to see you then! 

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Palm Springs Performs: A Tour Of The Desert’s Finest Theaters

Beyond its scenic mountain views, mid-century modernist appeal, and boutique hotel poolside sanctuaries, Palm Springs is also a vibrant hub for live theater. For those seeking to infuse their vacation oasis with a splash of drama, Palm Springs and its neighboring cities in the Coachella Valley offer a year-round theatrical journey like no other.

I recently had the opportunity to experience the local theater scene myself, and am thrilled to be spotlighting five theater companies that are raising the bar here in the low desert.

The Bent

A man with a white wig and black mustache stands with his arms out during a performance of "Gross Indecency: The Three Trials of Oscar Wilde" performed at The Bent in Palm Springs, California

“Gross Indecency: The Three Trials of Oscar Wilde” is part of The Bent’s first full season. Photo: Jim Cox

About: The Bent is a nonprofit theater that has served the Palm Springs and Coachella Valley LGBTQ+ community since Dec. 13, 2022. As a relatively new theater company in town, The Bent’s mission is to keep LGBTQ+ theater alive here in the Valley. 

The local community and other organizations came together to support The Bent in their inaugural year, as they launched their first full season and gained their sea legs. The Bent’s first three shows were all nominated for either Best Comedy or Best Drama of the Year by the Desert Theater League, and had a total of 14 nominations.

My experience: I had the opportunity to attend Gross Indecency: The Three Trials Of Oscar Wilde, by Moises Kaufman. Based entirely on facts, the show was a blueprint for the price Oscar Wilde paid for his status as a gay icon. The performance I saw was masterful in its writing as well as its acting. The show starred Brent Anderson, Melanie Blue, Tony Bradford, Kai Brothers, Stan Jenson, Barbara Kerr, Jason Mannino, Willie Mullins, Alex Price and Koby Queenen. Every detail was well executed, from the beautiful set to the dynamic, versatile cast. I’m looking forward to seeing more from The Bent.

The Bent, The Palm Springs Cultural Center, 2300 E. Baristo Rd., Palm Springs

Coachella Valley Repertory

Eric Phelps and Jack Mastrianni on stage at the Coachella Valley Repretory

“The Fantasticks: A Love Story Reimagined” had its West Coast debut at the Coachella Valley Repertory. Photo: David A. Lee

About: Coachella Valley Repertory’s new Executive Artistic Director Adam Karsten is committed to bringing Broadway-caliber talent to the desert for a true theater experience in an intimate setting at affordable prices. During a recent conversation I had with Karsten, he mentioned the phenomenon that “heartbeats can actually synchronize throughout a show when it’s this intimate.” 

With the Coachella Valley Repertory now in its 16th season, Karsten’s vision is to continue building upon a storied history while introducing fresh initiatives, like their new works program Origins, a page-to-stage development program. The first show, Summer Session with The Bones Brigade, is premiering this month.

My experience: I was invited to the West Coast premiere of The Fantasticks: A Love Story Reimagined. I was very impressed with the aesthetics and caliber of operations within the theater itself before the show even began. While I can’t say The Fantasticks has even been one of my favorite shows, it was refreshing to see a new, very LGBTQ-inclusive spin on the play. It was a heartwarming Romeo-and-Juliet love story between two boys (in this reimagined version) with their mothers at the helm. The real highlights for me were the characters Henry and Mortimer, who both provided comic relief and masterful acting throughout. As a musician myself, I also felt it was an intriguing choice to have the orchestra consist of only a pianist and a harpist. I can’t wait to check out a new works production in the near future.

Coachella Valley Repertory, 68510 E. Palm Canyon Dr., Cathedral City

Dezart Performs

A white woman stands next to a white man holding a book while a smiling white woman sits down in a chair

“The Thanksgiving Play” is a snarky comedy. Photo: David A. Lee

About: Running strong for 16 years now, Dezart Performs has consistently produced innovative, contemporary plays that audiences in the Coachella Valley would otherwise only see while visiting a larger city like Los Angeles or San Francisco. That was one of their founding principles, and the Valley has welcomed the kind of bold, thought-provoking work that Dezart Performs presents. And as an Equity-sanctioned professional theater, Dezart Performs draws upon the rich talent pool both locally and from across Southern California, casting gifted amateurs alongside experienced pros.

My experience: I attended Larissa FastHorse’s The Thanksgiving Play, a snarky comedy about four well-intentioned but terminally “woke” theater artists at an elementary school attempting to create a pageant that will somehow celebrate both Turkey Day and honor Native American Heritage Month. FastHorse is the first Native American playwright to have a show produced on Broadway, which is important to know in order to really appreciate a show this brash. That said, I was particularly fond of the writing and the flavor of comedy screaming through the storyline. While the jokes weren’t always delivered as I believe they were intended to be, it was a strong, committed cast throughout. It will be interesting to see what Dezart Performs does next.

Dezart Performs, Pearl McManus Theater at the Palm Springs Woman’s Club, 314 S. Cahuilla Rd., Palm Springs

Desert Ensemble Theatre

A woman in a black top and red skirt sings while on a dark stage

“Collective Rage: A Play In 5 Betties” is an outrageously fun production. Photo courtesy of Desert Ensemble Theatre

About: Desert Ensemble Theatre is committed to producing innovative plays that underscore the complexity of human interaction. DET offers theater internships to high school students, giving them on-the-job experience in professional productions and even awarding scholarships to graduating seniors who plan on continuing their higher education in theater arts. DET was named Best Repertory Company in the Desert Sun’s 2018 Best of the Valley Awards, and has since been honored with 28 Desert Theatre League Awards in all major categories.

My experience: I had the joy of sitting front-row center for a performance of Collective Rage: A Play In 5 Betties, an outrageously fun, queer, and female-focused show by Jen Silverman. It’s a story about when the lives of five women named Betty collide, and it’s a hard one to explain without seeing it for yourself. This was a strong cast of Betties, and there was one particular Betty who made me laugh until I cried towards the end of the performance; it was a glorious way to close out a show. It’s always a treat to see a Desert Ensemble Theatre production.

Desert Ensemble Theatre, The Palm Springs Cultural Center, 2300 E. Baristo Rd., Palm Springs

Palm Canyon Theater

Six "RENT" cast members hold their fists up while on stage a the Palm Canyon Theater in Palm Springs, California

“RENT” is part of the Palm Canyon Theater’s 27th season lineup. Photo: Carlos Mendoza

About: Palm Canyon Theater is proud to be the Coachella Valley’s longest-running theater company. They opened their doors in September 1997 after Dr. William “Bill” Layne and his family submitted the winning proposal to the City of Palm Springs for how to repurpose the historic Frances S. Stevens School with a cultural nonprofit organization. Now in their 27th season, the Palm Canyon Theatre has since grown into a huge family taking on all sorts of ambitious and widely-loved shows in their lineup.

My experience: I had the opportunity to attend Palm Canyon Theatre’s production of RENT, however… I missed the performance entirely because I had the date wrong on my calendar (doh!). As embarrassed as I was to admit that to the kind people who comped me two press passes, I am still thrilled to include them in this article. 

I caught one number from PCP’s cast of RENT in a live concert performance at the Arenas Halloween Block Party main stage, and I was very impressed. That said, I can’t wait to see a future PCP show myself. I’m particularly fond of the music from The Light in the Piazza, so I’m looking forward to being in the audience for that one.

Palm Canyon Theater, 538 N. Palm Canyon Dr., Palm Springs

A rich cultural fabric

These theater companies exemplify the thriving artistic spirit here in Palm Springs and its surroundings. Each venue offers a unique glimpse into the world of live performance, reflecting the diverse and rich cultural fabric of the area. From the intimate, reflective shows at The Bent to the grand, Broadway-like productions of the Coachella Valley Repertory, there’s a performance here for every theater enthusiast.

Just as these theaters bring stories to life, our small boutique hotels craft a similarly unique and personal experience. Each hotel, with its distinctive style and intimate setting, offers a gateway to the local culture and the vibrant heart of Palm Springs. There’s truly nowhere else quite like it for a vacation filled with fun, culture, and bottomless hospitality.

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Palm Springs Has Everything You Need For The Perfect Thanksgiving Getaway

By the time Thanksgiving rolls around, much of America will have had their first dusting, if not their first dumping of snow. Not so in Palm Springs! We’re just getting used to the cooler mornings, our warmer afternoons are full of sun and followed by sultry evenings, and you might need a little body heat (or a nice jacuzzi) to stay warm.

This year for Thanksgiving, instead of the inevitable familial bickering, why not enjoy four days in Palm Springs with a group of friends at one of our small resorts, and leave the clashes, the dishes, and cooking behind you?

Here are some boutique hotel options, and read on for where to eat on your special respite of thanks … and fun. I mean, you are in Palm Springs. We’re not Disneyland fun, we’re cool fun. That’s why we always wear sunglasses. (Don’t forget to bring yours so you can be cool too. They also help with our very bright sun.)

Once you’ve got your peeps, your sunglasses, and your hotel sorted, it’s time to figure out who’s gonna be cooking for you this year. All of the below come with at least one starter and a dessert. 

Thanksgiving meals in Palm Springs

Tropicale — Known for its very popular happy hour and buzzy outdoor patio, their entree is herb-roasted Mary’s Farm organic turkey, along with sausage, apple, and sage stuffing, whipped potatoes and turkey gravy, buttered Brussels sprouts, and cranberry apple chutney. You also get a soup or salad option, and three different desserts from which to choose. Featured wines: Rombauer Vineyard Chardonnay and Sokol Blosser Estate Pinot Noir. $84 per person.

Lulu — For those who don’t have a great relationship with turkey, Lulu is a wonderful choice. They have 10 choices of entrees with only three featuring turkey, and there’s a veggie option too. Plus, the atmosphere is pretty groovy. $59.99 per person.

Grand Central — There be turkey and fixins’ here! There also be four non-turkey options, including salmon and steak. For the vegetarians: pumpkin ravioli. Located in La Plaza at Palm Canyon, it’s a very big room so your chances of nabbing a spot are good. $79.99 per person.

Eight4Nine — Spend Thanksgiving at the former Palm Springs Post Office, now home to Eight4Nine. Willie Rhine is one of our favorite local restaurateurs, and Eight4Nine is his most popular restaurant. The four-course meal includes fig ricotta toast, a list of options for your starter and your main (including the very popular turkey dinner), and dessert. All for $76 per person.

Freddie’s Kitchen — Located in The Cole Hotel, this would be a great choice for staying and for Thanksgiving dinner. The French restaurant is serving the classic slow-roasted turkey, but they also have barramundi and grilled seasonal vegetables Wellington. For a starter, choose from soup, salad, or escargot, and the finale has three options for dessert. You don’t even need to leave the hotel. $72 per person, $25 corkage fee.

Melvyn’s — It’s another 2-fer here. Stay at the historic Ingleside Inn and dine in the glory of Melvyn’s. After dinner enjoy a martini at the bar and/or take a stroll around the grounds. Choose between four starters, four mains (including apple cider brined turkey breast), and two desserts. Sides will cost you $14 each on top of the $115 per person cost. It’s pretty Rat Pack-y, and if that’s the vibe you’re going for, it can’t be beat. Plus, you never know who you’ll see in the lounge.

So•Pa — One more 2-fer. Stay at L’Horizon and you’ll not only be treated to an incredibly swanky stay, but also a meal at So•Pa. Their offering is strictly of the turkey variety with all the fixins’ and then some. $95 per person.

Spencer’s — Located in the Class 1 historic Tennis Club on Baristo Road, smack up against the mountains, it’s one of the fancier places to dine in Palm Springs. They have a gorgeous patio they call the Bougainvillea Room where you can eat al fresco. Three starters to choose from, six entrees, and two desserts. $79 per person.

Zin American Bistro — In the heart of downtown, right on Palm Canyon Drive, is local restaurateur Mindy Reed’s Zin. This Thanksgiving there are five options as starters, five as mains (including turkey), and four dessert choices. $69.99 with a 22% gratuity.

Mr. Lyon’s — Probably the most popular steakhouse in town, and always a treat to the palate, this restaurant is located on the south side of town and features a speakeasy called Seymour’s. It’s a terrific dining experience, and for Thanksgiving they are offering four choices of starters, four choices of main (including turkey), and three dessert choices. $95 per person.

Pomme Frite — Zero turkey to be had in this French bistro, but what would you expect? It’s not a French holiday. But if you’re a fan of French bistro food, this just might be your jam. Five choices of starters, entrees and desserts, all very Français. $64.95 per person. 

Trio — Trio took a bit of a hit during the pandemic, but it’s coming back strong with a refresh of the interior and the menu. This Thanksgiving they have a family-style first course, three offerings for mains, three sets of sides served family style, and two desserts from which to choose. If none of those three mains suit you, there’s an a la carte menu featuring 10 extra items. $59 per person.

Palm Springs does Thanksgiving poolside

Thanksgiving experiences

The Purple Room is offering a dining and jazz experience with the Pam Phillips Trio. If you haven’t heard Pam on keys, you haven’t lived. Four choices for starters, five choices for mains (including turkey breast), and three choices for dessert. $79 per person. This club is dressed in an homage to the Rat Pack era, and although it’s not as old as Melvyn’s, it gives it a run for its money on the Rat Pack front.

Finally, Palm Springs Aerial Tramway will operate a special holiday schedule Thursday, Nov. 23 through Sunday, Nov. 26. The first tram up each day is at 8 a.m. with the final tram at 8 p.m. The last tram down is at 9:30 p.m.

Thanksgiving Day Ride ‘n’ Dine tickets include tram admission and your meal at Pines Café, served from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Their fancy restaurant, Peaks, is also serving a special Thanksgiving pre-fixe menu. Reservations begin at 11 a.m. Tram tickets are not included. The regular menu is also available. 

So why not hit all the right notes this Thanksgiving with a very special holiday away from home? Spend the four-day holiday in Palm Springs where the weather’s perfect, the food is fantastic, the small hotels are gorgeous, and the vibe is Barry White — laid-back and a little suggestive. We can’t help it; the sun makes us frisky. 

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

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Let’s Get 2023 Started: January Events In Palm Springs

I hope you all made it through 2022 as unscathed as possible. No matter the reason, you absolutely deserve a getaway vacation to Palm Springs. The late night temps are in the low 50s, while it’s in the mid-70s by noon and the sun is warm on your skin. Perfect tanning weather, and a heated pool will bring all of the aaahhhs.

Whether you want to keep the party going, or you’re looking to unwind from party season, Palm Springs is a cure. Have a look at our boutique resorts to find your particular jam. There are A LOT to choose from, each one unique in its own way — on the Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels website, you can use a filter to narrow down the choices. I’d do it for you, but you didn’t tell me what you were looking for, so I’m stumped. It’s pretty easy to navigate, so unless you’re a single cell organism, you’ll do fine.

The biggest thing going on this month is the Palm Springs International Film Festival, and I’m going to tell you about that in a different post, but you should get tickets yesterday if you want to attend. Other than that, we’ve got a lot of the usual suspects, a few one-offs, and a brand new nightclub. I’ll do a post about my favorite restaurants before Valentine’s Day so you can make a plan. But first, January 2023. Ready? Let’s go.

One and done

Jan 1: Vintage Market at the Palm Springs Cultural Center — First hour is $10 to get in (first pick!), $5 after 9 a.m. Vendors from all over the country.

Jan. 4: Leslie Jordan: Gone Too Soon. At Quadz Palm Springs, 6:30 to 8 p.m.

Jan 5-16: Palm Springs International Film Festival — Cruise the website yourself, or you can read about it here.

Jan 19-22: Palm Springs Winter Break — Line dance party.

Items for sale at the Vintage Market. Photo by Katy Carrier

Recurring tours

Historical Society Walking Tours — 14 different tour options, all spectacular.

Architectural Bike Tours — Your guide, Brennan, is all about mid-century modern. He is also a bus tour guide during Modernism Week. Many of our resorts have bikes available, so snag one for a few hours and book the tour.

Desert Tasty Tours — Get a taste of downtown Palm Springs with this fun walking tour. You get some great history, some adult beverages, and some delicious food from our locally owned spots. It’s a great mid-day adventure. Get $5 off when purchasing your tickets by using promo code “PSPHotel.”

MOGO Silent Disco — Get your boogie on with this dance tour. To be clear, you are the dancer. Curated music is pumped through your headset as you disco down Palm Canyon Boulevard. You won’t look weird — you’ll bring friends and make new ones. Use code “pspsh10” at checkout for a 10 percent discount for our readers!

Dance your way through downtown Palm Springs. Photo courtesy of MOGO Silent Disco Tour

Clubs with entertainment

Caliente Comedy at the Cascade Lounge on Fridays

Jazzville at the Cascade Lounge on Thursdays

The Purple Room — Rat Pack styled club with top notch entertainment from all over the country.

PS Underground — If you’ve read this blog before, you know I love this experience. Everything is spectacular, from the venue to the entertainment and the food. One of the most creative and fun events you will ever witness. Everyone becomes BFFs forever, including your hosts and creative team, Michael and Chef Dave.

Oscar’s — There’s a lot going on here, so peep the calendar. If you’re gay (or wanna hang with your gays), the T Dance is the best recurring party in town. If you’re straight, stay away from the bathrooms.

Oscar’s. Courtesy of Visit Palm Springs

PS Air — One-of-a-kind “speakeasy” masquerading as an airplane; it may even have a cockpit, I’m not sure (I mean, it is Palm Springs). But there is in-flight entertainment, and often a naughty stewardess.

Toucan’s — A drag queen institution and dance club on the north end of town near the very popular Boozehounds.

Come On Up — Palm Springs Cultural Center (formerly known as — or concurrently, I’m unclear — the Camelot Theater) is stepping it up. They still show movies, and there are two theater companies during season (which is now), as well as Come On Up, featuring recurring musical acts on different weekdays. There’s a lot of parking, so you can bring a crowd.

Nightclubs

Reforma (brand new) — Right next to BevMo. It just opened, and I mean just, like yesterday.

Pretty Faces (fairly new) — I haven’t checked it out yet. LMK if you go.

Theater

Jan 20-29: Palm Canyon Theater: Palm Springs Getaway

Jan 13-22: Dezart Performs: A Bright New Boise

Jan 17-29: CVRep: Dirty Blonde

Jan 27-29: Desert Ensemble Theater: Kill the Editor

There’s a new theater company in town, The Bent. I’m not sure if they’re doing anything in January yet, but peek their website. There are rumors that their very popular show, The Lincoln Debate, will be back in February. For those of you not in the know, Lincoln shared a single bed with another man for four years. The show uses that information as a jumping off point.

If you’re new to PS and you are a gay man looking for the action, you’re looking for East Arenas Road (fun article), two blocks of gay Shangri-La. Pair that with a men’s clothing optional boutique resort, and you’ve reached nirvana.

Okay, that’s it for January. Hope to see you around town enjoying our delicious weather. And as always, please shop and stay local, have a blast, and I’ll see you next month.

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Modernism And More: February Events In Palm Springs

It’s February, and no matter how many days it happens to be, it’s always been short shrifted. I’d start a movement, “Equal Days for February,” but February doesn’t seem to care. Within those 28 or 29 days in February, we get three holidays, two of which are solely American: President’s Day, for fairly obvious reasons, and Groundhog’s Day, with Punxsutawney Phil (1886) as the oldest of the celebrated rodents; tied for second are Mickey and Minnie (1928), with Mighty Mouse (1942) rounding out the meese. It’s a word, look it up.

With the exception of a few countries, Valentine’s Day is celebrated worldwide. Some of the customs are different, like in Japan and Korea where the women are the gift givers (rude). In Finland, they celebrate friendship (yay!) and Bulgaria keeps it simple with couples sharing a glass of wine. 

Love is also in the air in Palm Springs, but that’s just a blip on the radar compared to the mack daddy of all our signature events, Modernism Week, running Feb. 13-23. People fly in from all over the world to celebrate the mid-mod aesthetic and participate in home and bus tours, watch movies, and listen to speakers. Last year, 130,000 people attended. Where do we put them all? The diehards stay in our fabulous small boutique hotels and resorts that were built during those days of yore. 

If you’re not into all that, we’ve still got non-Modernism stuff going on, so grab a cuppa whatever, and let’s go:

One and done events

Feb. 1: Soul Springs Festival, 1 – 6 p.m., Downtown Park, free. This vibrant celebration of soul and jazz music invites attendees to enjoy captivating live performances by top artists, along with an interactive Soul Music Sing-Along where everyone can join in on classic hits. The festival promotes a sense of community and connection, encouraging attendees to bring their lawn chairs and spend a memorable day with family and friends.

Dinner and a show 

Purple Room — Come play where the Rat Pack used to tear it up at this classy but fun hot spot on the southern end of the Palm Canyon strip, about two blocks past Sunrise Way/Lavergne. It’s a bit confusing on how to get there, but there’s what I call a “service road” that runs parallel to Palm Canyon. It’s just past the Saguaro; look for a sign that says “Trinidad Club.”   

PS Underground — Visit their website for non-modernism shows, but maybe check out Ponytails, Chiffon and Shangri La, Feb. 18 – 20. For those of you who are unaware, Palm Springs was the movie stand-in for Shangri La in quite a few movies, starting way back in the early 1900s. PS Underground is a great experience, with wonderful food and entertainment. By the time you leave, you will know everyone at your table, and likely more. 100% worth it. 

PS Air — It’s a restaurant/bar on a plane. Not a real one, but it feels like it. One of those big old airplanes that had an upstairs lounge where passengers could gather for cocktails and steak and lobster dinner (I don’t know how good it was. My family always went overseas by ship. Yes, I’m posh). PS Air takes you back to a time when flying was an “experience” and a way to travel. This year they have the Mid-Mod Boozy Brunch drag show on Feb. 16 and 23 “piloted” by charming and smooth-voiced Tod Macofsky with his crew of “stewardesses.” 

Oscar’s — Good food, great entertainment. Home of Sunday’s The Bitchiest Brunch, Oscar’s has an eclectic mix of entertainers that mostly land in the realm of queer in all sense of the word — strange and unusually odd (but fantastic) and often part of the rainbow. 

Dinner and dancing

Reforma — Inside the class one historic building known as the Jewel Box of the Desert. Enjoy dinner at La Cocina, dinner and dancing (separate) during Warehouse Wednesdays, Gasolina on Fridays, and Y2K AF on Saturdays. 

Sammy G’s — Good Italian food on the menu in the restaurant and twinkly courtyard. After dinner, on Fridays and Saturdays, take it upstairs to the lounge and dance the night away to the music of the 1970s and 80s, covered by excellent local band the Evaro Brothers.

Entertainment, a nosh, and cocktails

The Rock Gallery — New comedy club where the Mid-Century Modern Museum used to be, on Palm Canyon Drive.

V Wine Lounge and Martini Bar — You can still keep it in the mid-mod aesthetic by going to this terrific spot in the class one historic Hugh Kaptur Plaza. Right next to Koffi on Tahquitz, there’s plenty of parking, pinot, and performances by some of our terrific local artists. 

The Village Pub — Check it out during VillageFest. There’s always great music coming from their patios that makes you want to hit the dance floor. Lots of rooms to navigate —  always an adventure!

Drinks, dancing and drag

Copa Nightclub — Late night club with drag shows and more, right next to The Tropicale.

Toucan’s Tiki Lounge — The OG of drag clubs and dancing. If you don’t like drag, don’t go. ‘K?

That’s it so far for February, I have to go thrifting for my mid-mod aesthetic outfit for Modernism Week. See you on the streets!

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The Great August Bake-Off — Palm Springs Events

“Baking can be done with a few simple ingredients, so it’s about simplicity and nostalgia — people are reminded of their childhood.” — Paul Hollywood

When I was a kid, if the sun was out, so was I, often jumping back and forth over the sprinkler when it got hot. When I hit my teens, we slathered ourselves in baby oil and iodine (don’t do that), threw a towel down in the backyard and baked in the sun until we got hot (do not do that either).

If you’re still a sun worshiper and love the heat, it’s a great time to come to Palm Springs. The deals on the Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels are banging (check out the Summer Splash Pass) and the restaurants are offering the Summer Eats Pass — that equates to an inexpensive getaway to the happiest, most laidback, little big town with its own international airport.

August 5: Craft Beer Festival

August 9: Chef’s Dinner at Boozehounds

August 10: Copa Nightclub — Lokera Thursdays (and future Thursdays) presents La Toxica Tour with a live performance from Mariah Angeliq. This weekly party features sets from JPatron, Boogs, and DJ Dynamiq, spinning reggaeton and hip hop.

August 11-13: Splash House (lineup)

August 11: Emo Nite at Pretty Faces nightclub

August 12 – 13: Clear The Shelters — The goal for the weekend will be to adopt out as many animals as possible. Boozehounds has agreed to cover the adoption fees for the entire weekend.

An ad for Clear the Shelters showing a cartoon dog and cat

Courtesy of Clear the Shelters

August 13: Diva Royale Drag Show at Pete’s Hideaway

August 18 – 20: Splash House (lineup)

August 19: Super Mario Bros screening at PS Swim Center, 405 S Pavilion Way, Palm Springs

Recurring events

Reforma — Check out their Saturday Drag Brunches. They change weekly, with themes like Disney Princess and Taylor Swift.

Cascade at Agua Caliente Palm Springs — Comedy, Jazzville, Latin Nights, and more. Throw a few coins in the slots after the show, maybe you’ll get lucky.

Crystal Fantasy — Psychic Fair every weekend, and drum circles.

Drift Hotel — Lots of fun pool parties going on.

Oscar’s — They’re under construction, but they’re still plugging away.

V Wine Lounge — Monday nights Leanna Rodgers, Tuesdays Keisha D.

Toucan’s Tiki & Cabaret — Always a party, never a drag, even though most of the shows are drag. Late night dancing.

Saturdays: Disco Inferno at Reforma (9 p.m.). Stay in town longer and dance all night on Motown Mondays (7 p.m.).

Palm Springs Cultural Center — The first cineplex in Palm Springs, the not-for-profit now has weekly musical acts, plays, markets (farmers’ on Saturdays), and larger name performers.

Courtesy of Palm Springs Cultural Center

Daytime indoor shopping

The Flannery Exchange

Flannery Exchange is really stepping up its game. Besides offering workshare space, there are dining options. Café La Jefa partners with Sisters Coffee, and their menu features espresso drinks, healthy gourmet food, pastries, and savory eats. Juices and tea also available. (FYI: Café La Jefa is closed on Tuesday and Wednesdays for the summer, check the website for hours.)

Bar Chingona is a fun spot to grab a cocktail, and the other stores are pretty boss too:

It Refills — Really for locals, but bring your own container (or buy a glass one there) and fill it up with organic detergents, shampoos and conditioners, and face and hand cream. It’s all 100% Earth friendly. (I’m so enthralled with this idea.)

Bobo Palm Springs — Boutique carrying a curated collection of artisan goods from women-owned brands, women-of-color artists, and queer artists, with a rare selection of Japanese stationery writing and artist’s tools.

Covet — Handcrafted artisan jewelry, gifts, apparel, and home accessories.

Joyful Living — Sustainable designer fashion and fine art in a showroom highlighting timeless vintage luxury pieces still on trend, i.e Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Hermes, Cartier, Dior, Fendi, Gucci, Burberry, Prada, and more. By appointment only.

MIU — Man in Uniform is designed in L.A., made in Turkey. A range of high-quality printed rayon shirts and premium cotton T- shirts capturing California chic.

Carmela Ice Cream Company — Award-winning seasonal ice creams made completely from scratch in small batches using fresh, real ingredients. Often combining herbs and spices with seasonal fruits, Carmela is considered a pioneer in farm-to-table, artisan ice cream and has been churning out inventive and delicious flavors since 2007.

House of Florals — All things flowers except (from what I can tell) fresh ones. But local flowers are the inspiration for their wallpapers and home accessories.

Antiquing and thrifting

Besides the many options for retro and mid-mod accessories downtown In town, there are two large spaces to shop cool, and two of them are thrifters that profit nonprofits. People get tired of things, and then they donate them, and we get to rifle through them and find the stuff that needs to be in our closets.

Angel View — Angel View serves children and adults with disabilities. They have a big old store and they have an upscale boutique right next door. 462 N Indian Canyon Drive (corner of Indian Canyon and Alejo).

Revivals — The profits from this store help DAP Health offer healthcare and support an affordable housing project for the Coachella Valley. 611 S. Palm Canyon Drive.

Both nonprofits do pretty bomb things, so go get yourself a bargain.

And lucky you, just across the street and a block down Sunny Dunes is Antiques Row (at least that’s what I call it). There are single stores scattered all over the area (most of them are on the street called Industrial) and two malls that can keep you enthralled for hours at a time, right up to happy hour.

Temporary closings

Bar Cecil — closed August 14 – 21

PS Underground — reopening September

Purple Room — reopening September

Johnny Costa’s Ristorante — reopening September

Peninsula Pastries — reopening September 7

John Henry’s Cafe — reopening September 22

Tyler’s Burgers — reopening September 1

Miro’s — reopening August 31

Café Mon Amour — reopening September 1

Jake’s — reopening “end of September”

Like the song says, “I’ll see you … in September!”

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Pride On The Page, Stage, And In The Streets

Happy Pride, Palm Springs!

In case you didn’t know, 2024 is the Year of the Wood Dragon. Next year is the Year of the Snake, and I’m having a personal chuckle fest over that. I hope, for the lesbians, 2026 is the Year of the Beaver, but I don’t think they have those in China.

Another NBC “The More You Know” moment: Palm Springs is approximately 48 percenet gay, and 50 percent are allies. The other two percent are like a disgraced relative — we don’t talk about them. But considering everything, those are pretty good percentages. And there is a 100 percent chance you will have a ball at the Pride Parade, gay or straight. 

Of course, the events cater to the gay community, and not all of them are represented on the Pride website. So, I’ve combed through all the Eventbrite offerings I could find, and I’ve listed them below. If you’re straight, there’s still plenty to do, see my other post.

If you haven’t already, hurry up and book one of our Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels that cater to gay men. I promise you’ll find something just as special as you are.

For all of the info on Pride and the parade, go here. 

Official Pride parties

Nov. 1, 4 to 11 p.m. — Arenas Pride Kickoff. High-energy DJs and dancing in the streets. This is the place to be for house and dance music, food trucks, and outdoor beverage lounges. My buddy, DJ ModGirl, is headlining, and let me tell you this girl is the most fun ever put into one human. Not only does she spin great dance music, she has boundless energy. GO! 

Nov. 2 — Arenas Area District Block Party. The official Party of Pride features DJs all night. Join Pride revelers and dancers at the open-air beverage lounge. The block party invites residents and visitors to discover all that the Arenas District has to offer.

Nov. 3 — Pride Parade!

The rest of the festivities

Cotton candy skies above the sparkling pool at the Trixie Motel in Palm Springs, California

Trixie Motel will welcome guests on Nov. 2 for Hot Pink Pride Edition.

Nov. 1 — Fabuloso Tropical Party at Reforma Palm Springs. Terrific nightclub located in The Jewel Box of the Desert, a Class 1 Historic Site. But you just care about the party, and here’s where you can find it.

Nov. 1, 9 p.m. – 2 a.m. — Queer Women’s Pride Party. Although the population is mostly gay men, it’s nice to see the girls getting their own party. Check it out, ladies.

Nov. 1 — Chill Bar presents Pink Box VIP Lounge. From the event page: “Come and go as you please with an exclusive VIP entrance to the lounge and Chill Bar. Enjoy complimentary water, soft drinks, and Red Bull all weekend. Sample specialty cocktails featuring Absolut Elyx and Codigo 1530. Exclusive entertainment.”

Nov. 2, 10 a.m. — Wilma & Frieda PS: Jasmine Masters & Friends. — Mostly known for their pastries and brunch, Wilma & Frieda has a great balcony for watching the parade. Jasmine Masters is not only a drag queen, but the Queen of Memes and 2019 GIPHY’s 1st place winner.

Nov. 2, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. — Trixie Motel presents Hot Pink Pride Edition. If it’s Trixie, you know it’s going to be FABULOUS! AND you get an opportunity to get pinked by Trixie’s hotel.

Nov. 2 — Ride the Rainbow LGBTQ Pride Pool Party. At the Canyon Club, one of our gay resorts. Jump in or just enjoy the view.

Nov. 2 — Palm Springs Pride: Reforma Presents Inferno feat. HoneyLuv. It’s a nightclub, one of only two in Palm Springs, and HoneyLuv is an International DJ and producer who has performed at Coachella, EDC in Las Vegas, Brooklyn Mirage, and Space Miami. 

Nov. 2, 10 a.m. — TITS & TEA: A Bad Bitch Brunch at Boozehounds Palm Springs. I don’t think I need to explain this one.

Nov. 2 — Queerlesque! An Evening of Oddity Featuring Yvie Oddly! Hosted by Ongina, at Boozehounds.

Nov. 2 — Canopy 54: A Studio 54 Inspired Disco Night. This venue is all class, so expect the best out of this event.

Nov. 2 — DaddyPop! Palm Springs Pride • A Saturday Afternoon Tea w/ Matt Consola. At Reforma.

Nov. 2 — Yvie Oddly meet and greet and book signing at Just Fabulous.

Nov. 2 — Drag Brunch Divas at Trio Restaurant. 

Nov. 3 — Giornata Amazing Sundays Palm Springs Pride Drag Brunch at Reforma.

Nov. 3 — Gay (Gay Day) at Birba Palm Springs

Nov. 3, 9 a.m. — Pride on the Rooftop in Palm Springs. Flannery Exchange. Once again, DJ ModGirl will be providing the entertainment. Great view, great music. 

That’s all I can find for right now. Some things tend to pop up last minute, that’s just how laid back we are. But during Pride? The whole town is a party celebrating inclusion! 

Happy Pride Wood Dragoners!

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Beat The Heat: August Events In Palm Springs

?We’re having a heatwave. A tropical heatwave. The temperature’s rising, it isn’t surprising, we’re having a heatwave.?— Irving Berlin

Factoring in heat and humidity, Palm Springs is like…everywhere else in the world right now: hot and muggy. But we’re still Palm Springs — relaxed and groovy, a respite from traffic congestion, smog, and overworked, underpaid, crabby people. The sky remains blue, the stars continue to show off in the night sky, and as long as there is A/C (and there is) and a pool (so many pools), it remains paradise.

Splash House. Photo by Jose Negrete, courtesy of Visit Palm Springs

Many of the small boutique hotels are having specials, which is great because this month, for two weekends, Palm Springs hosts Splash House (August 12-14 and August 19-21), the DJ equivalent of the Coachella Music Festival minus the dust, grime, and the conundrum of how to get to the venue without sitting in traffic for hours and hours. And then there’s the parking. Oy!

As the name Splash House indicates, the parties are held mostly in and around the pool, but at night, after parties are held at Palm Springs Air Museum — a very cool venue. You should check it out during the daytime, too. There’s lots of flying memorabilia, including old planes, and you can actually book a joy ride on a warbird.

You’ll still want to ride share to these events in case you’d like to partake in alcohol or cannabis, because safety first. Plus, no parking hassles. (Check out this article for info on Palm Springs’ cannabis stores.)

Splash House is held at three large resorts, but you don’t have to stay in them. In fact, I would suggest that you enjoy the best of two worlds — a boutique hotel for quiet times and tranquil moments, and a big-ass party at the large resorts during the day.

So, check out the Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotel specials here, and find your bliss for a little less wear-and-tear on the bank account. Because the boutique hotels have fewer rooms than the big boys, you’re not just a random face or room number. Many people develop lifelong friendships with hoteliers and other guests, and they meet up  year after year.

The tram on its way to cooler temperatures. Photo courtesy of Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

If you’re skipping the big pool parties, and opting just for the night events, there’s still plenty to do (keep reading). Everything is inside (please don’t hike) with the exception of the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, which is both inside and outside. And it is 30 to 40 degrees cooler at the top. Definitely worth the price of the ticket.

Splash House also isn’t the only music you’ll find this month. There’s Turn My Music Up Fest August 5, 6, and 7. Again, I’d encourage you to look at your options for small boutique hotels, not only because they each have their own personality, but because most are locally owned and operated, so you’re contributing to the welfare of the city itself.

Here’s all the rest of the action:

Thursdays: Street Fair and free admission to Palm Springs Art Museum, 5 to 7 p.m. The Art Museum has a bunch of programs, too, including a free Sunday on August 14 from 1 to 3 p.m. Check the link above for movies and more events.

Marilyn at the Downtown Park. Photo courtesy of Visit Palm Springs

August 17: Movies in the Park — Across from the Art Museum and next to Marilyn. This month they’re showing Some Like It Hot. It’s free and starts just after sundown (around 8 p.m.).

PS Underground — Expect the unexpected at this terrific dinner “theater.” Food and entertainment are exceptional and both are wildly creative. Dates and prices on the website. Some upcoming offerings include:

Gospel — Sunday brunch

Liquid Grooves — whatever that sounds like to you. Just know it will be scads of fun.

Ovation — Sunday brunch

Sound of Music singalong

PS Cultural Center

August 9 and 23: CV Philharmonic Society Chamber Series 

August 25: Bad Movie Bashing — In honor of National Bee Month: The Bees (1978). Described as “a giant creature feature of minuscule proportions that sees the late, great John Saxon fighting against a deadly swarm of killer bees that have invaded the United States, all in the name of honey and vengeance!”

August 5: MasterPiece Mash Up by artist and filmmaker Tyson Knight, featuring an exhibition of his art and his documentary about the homeless. Knight is a fascinating artist who has done many murals here in Palm Springs, and is an all-around cool dude.

Weekly live music: Sundays — Keisha D; Mondays — Mon Petit Salon (look into it); Tuesdays: Leanna + Jazz Collective; Saturdays: Farmers’ Market.

The Cultural Center is also home to Camelot Theaters, which plays new releases, indie films, and LGTQ+ films. In August, their series Palm Springs Unwinds focuses on Wes Anderson:

August 6: Rushmore

August 13: The Royal Tenenbaums

August 20: Moonrise Kingdom

August 27: The Grand Budapest Hotel

DJ Mod Girl — One of the best local DJs around. She’s so much fun, and ramps up the party by her presence alone — this girl gets down, people. You’ll be up and dancing in a nano.

The Alibi is back!  They’re adding dates and seeking out cool indie bands for their calendar, so keep checking. So far:

August 4: Thursday Throwdown — no info available at this time, check link above.

August 7: Rostam with Sam Buck — Rostam is a founding member of Vampire Weekend. This concert will run from 8 p.m. to 11:59 p.m. Swear to Cher that’s what it says on the website.

August 15: The Soul Rebels

August 18: Syence (pronounced Science)

New place alert! Pretty Faces Nightclub at Hotel Zoso. Open Thursday through (and including) Saturday, from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m.

Heist Escape Room. Photo courtesy of Visit Palm Springs

Palm Springs Escape Room — If you haven’t been to an escape room, this is a great time to try it. I went here for my birthday a few years ago and it was SO. MUCH. FUN. If you’re a fan of puzzles, or get your adrenalines from beating the clock, this is for you. BTW, it’s privately owned, not part of any other escape room, so it’s another way to support local businesses.

420 Bank and Lounge has old-timey games like Operation (which is a riot when you’re stoned) as well as a life-size chess set, pinball, and billiards. You can also purchase cannabis and consume it in the lounge. There are some very fun and Instagram-worthy shots to be had here. You’ll need to check their calendar, as they often have bands and comedians onstage. These lounges are popping up all over the valley, and are the cannabis equivalent to a bar.

Oscar’s. Courtesy of Visit Palm Springs

Oscar’s

August 4: Eve Holmes puts on a great show featuring standards, jazz, Latin, dance, country, and Broadway.

August 5: Gennine Francis performing R&B, pop, soul, jazz, standards, and more.

August 11 and 25: Hotwyre provides danceable rock.

August 24 and 31: Mark and Tony Show — no cover, live taping of the TV show every Wednesday.

Saturdays: Bitchiest Brunch, Mimosa Men, and Oscar’s Cabaret

Cascade Lounge (inside Agua Caliente Casino in downtown Palm Springs)

Mondays: Mimosas, Martinis & Music with Don Wardell

Wednesdays: Desert Blues Revival

Fridays: Caliente Comedy

Thursdays: Jazzville

Sundays: Latin Nights

On Arenas Road:

Hunter’s is open daily, 11 a.m. to 2 a.m.

August 4: National IPA Day

August 16: National Rum Day

August 18: National Pinot Noir Day

August 28: National Red Wine Day

Where’s the love for an old vine Zinfandel?

Streetbar — the oldest gay bar in Palm Springs (that’s years open, not the required age of patrons). There’s karaoke, a smoking patio, extended Happy Hour, daily top shelf specials. Streetbar is a desert tradition since 1991.

Chill Bar

August 6: Dirty Disco Takeover with Matt Consola

August 6: Varsity – Boy’s Night Out

Small businesses suffered during the pandemic, and I’m sorry to report Dead or Alive, one of my favorite little beer and wine spots, as well as Desert Rose Playhouse, one of my favorite theaters, have closed. Dead or Alive is permanently deceased, but we’re holding out hope someone will resurrect Desert Rose. It was the only LGBTQ+ theater in the Coachella Valley.

So please stay and shop local, hydrate more than you think is necessary and then drink some more, wear sunscreen, and don’t be surprised if someone says hello to you on the street. That would be a local. We’re friendly like that.

I’ll be back in September — hope you will, too!

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Hot Rodeo: You’ll Have A Gay Old Time

Thermal was chock full of cowboys and cowgirls at the Desert Rodeo the last weekend in April, and the party is continuing in Palm Springs at Hot Rodeo. The fun will take place May 1-4, with the rodeo itself in Banning, a quick drive down the 10 freeway.

This year is HUGE for a couple of reasons. First, we’re celebrating 50 years of Gay Rodeo. That’s right, for 50 years Gay Rodeo has been holding events with cowboys who like boys and cowgirls who like girls, and the world keeps spinning. 

And it’s historically significant for another reason — this year it’s an all women-led event, the first ever, which is appropriate for a town that was built by women who embraced the gay community. Like I said, it’s BIG!

What happens at Hot Rodeo? Bull riding, barrel racing, team roping, breakaway roping, steer decorating (what?), pole bending, chute dogging, flag racing, wild drag race, and ranch saddle bronc riding (new for 2025). I think those are all at the rodeo itself, but it can get pretty wild in the gayborhood so I’m hedging my bets. Also, burn this. What happens at Hot Rodeo stays at Hot Rodeo.

Hot Rodeo events

Thursday, May 1

6 p.m.: Dance Contest, Tool Shed, 600 E. Sunny Dunes Rd, Palm Springs. 

Friday, May 2

1 p.m.: Pool Party, Motel 6, Palm Springs.

6 p.m.: Contestant registration, Tool Shed.

7 p.m.: Cowgirl Night, Hunters Nightclub, 302 E. Arenas Road, Palm Springs. (It’s been announced that The Barebacks will perform, but that doesn’t seem to be solid.)

Saturday, May 3

10 a.m.: Hot Rodeo, A.C.Dysart Equestrian Park 2030–2198 W. Victory Ave., Banning. Gates to open at 9:30 a.m., with Grand Entry at noon.

7 p.m.: Dancing Under the Stars (Day 1/2), Oscar’s Palm Springs, 125 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs.

Sunday May 4

10 a.m.: Hot Rodeo, A.C.Dysart Equestrian Park 2030–2198 W. Victory Ave., Banning. Gates to open at 9:30 a.m., with Grand Entry at noon.

7 p.m.: Dancing Under the Stars (Day 2/2). Oscar’s Palm Springs. (I think the awards presentation is here as well, but the schedule doesn’t commit to it.)

Everything you need to know about the events including tickets and passes can be found here. 

Where to stay in Palm Springs

Looking for a hotel that fits the vibe? I’ve got you:

Old Ranch Inn — A modern take on the spirit of the old west, this eight-room boutique hotel is in the heart of the Historic Tennis Club neighborhood, within walking distance of Palm Springs’ best restaurants, shops, and clubs. 

Coyote Inn — A small and intimate boutique hotel with seven romantic rooms opening onto an enclosed patio with pool and spa. It is an exclusive Spanish Mission-style inn, fully walled and gated. Walking distance to downtown Palm Springs.

Hotel California — Consistently voted as one of the top hotels in not just Palm Springs, but the entire country.

Horsin’ around

If you’re not competing, but you’d love to do a bit of riding that involves horses, check out Smoke Tree Stables, which offers guided trail rides along the base of the Santa Rosa Mountains and through the Agua Caliente Indian Canyons. Options range from hourly rides to full-day excursions, and group rides can include Western cookouts or themed events.

BONUS: The Coachella Valley Derby Girls will play the South Coast Roller Derby at the Palm Springs Air Museum on May 3. When I was a kid trying to find something to watch on TV when it was rainy outside, Roller Derby was often on one of the independent channels. The guys were hot, but man it was violent. But then they started showing the girl teams, and while they were trying to achieve the same goal, they weren’t violent, just very insistent (some call it pushy) and wildly creative with their moves. It’s slam poetry in motion. 

While you’re here, please consider staying and shopping locally. We absolutely appreciate your business. Plus, we like you.

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Isn’t It Romantic? Valentine’s Day In Palm Springs

Palm Springs has all the charm and romance a boy or girl or non-gendered human could ever dream possible. We are the rare resort town that doesn’t rely on the crashing surf (although you can surf in Palm Springs.) And what we don’t have, we make up for in panache. We’ve got that Hallmark, small-town vibe with a wee twist or two. There’s something for everyone in Palm Springs, no matter your idea of romance. Judgement is something we leave up to Judy. (Pick your own Judy.)

I’m going to tell you about some very romantic boutique hotels that are dressed to impress, and a perfect fit for lovers. We can’t forget restaurants for the big night, and a few sights you must see. Some might even be “pop the question” worthy, depending on the question.

Romantic boutique hotels and resorts in Palm Springs

Korakia Pensione — Located slightly southwest of downtown (still walkable), this place is as Mediterranean as it gets. Moroccan influenced too, it’s all peace and love. There are no TVs, nor other distractions from the ooh and aah of it all.

L’Horizon — One of three Steve Hermann hotels in Palm Springs, L’Horizon is first class. If you love the swank of an estate feel, this is your invitation.

Lucille — A large pool in a Mediterranean courtyard, kitchenettes are available, and you’re within easy walking distance of downtown. This hotel was one of my friends’ favorites during the last Walk of the Inns.

Dive — The rooms are each their own work of art, the pool is big and swimmable, and the grounds have whimsy at every turn, with quiet corners carved into the large space where you can chat or canoodle. 

Ingleside Estate — Once owned by Ruth Hardy (it was an inn, but you could only stay by invitation — and you had to be “someone”). Purchased during the Rat Pack era by Mel Haber, it was the spot in Palm Springs, and it wasn’t just open to his friends. Today you can stay on the estate and feel the historic vibes. You’ve got a pool, your bungalow, and Melvyn’s, a restaurant and bar with entertainment. 

La Maison — On the south end of Palm Springs, you’ll love the king or queen feather beds with down duvets. Often compared to the south of France, it’s the perfect setting for that romantic getaway weekend. The coffee bar and breakfast get you up and ready to jump on one of their bicycles and ride downtown. 

Amin Casa — If you’re looking to be bathed in Hollywood history, you can be a guest at Gloria Swanson’s old home. It’s a beautiful space, located just west of the heart of downtown, close to Spencer’s restaurant. 

Villa Royale — Also on the south end of Palm Springs, and tucked back into the Deepwell area, this Mediterranean villa is magnificent and cozy at the same time. There’s a huge refreshing swim pool and Del Rey, a first class restaurant. 

The Velvet Rope — This luxurious nine-room boutique hotel is in the Old Las Palmas neighborhood, and was originally built in 1952 by renowned architect Herbert W. Burns. Today, it is a tribute to Old Hollywood, and each accommodation, designed by David Rios, has its own glamorous theme.

La Serena Villas — Each secluded private villa has a patio, complete with a romantic claw foot tub, fire pit, and built in benches. Azucar, a lovely little restaurant, is located on property, as is their spa, Whispers.

Just for men

Santiago — Tropical, relaxed, and groovy with that island feel, Santiago has been one of the premiere men’s clothing-optional hotels since 1991. It not only has the biggest pool around, but guests can also enjoy the gardens and 24-hour cantina.

Desert Paradise — The 12-room resort puts its guests first, ensuring that staffers go above and beyond when it comes to service. The property boasts a pool, spa, outdoor shower, steam room, dry sauna, and lush grounds.

The Hacienda at Warm Sands — This 10-room resort is located in Warm Sands, and feels like a private sanctuary. Lush foliage, a Japanese water feature, Saltillo-tiled patios and walkways, Southwestern plants, an outdoor fireplace, in-ground spa, and two large swimming pools are what you’ll find here. Breakfast and lunch are also offered on property.

Day play

The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway — Take a ride to the top of the mountain and see the entire Coachella Valley. Question popping potential.

The Spa at Séc-he – One of USA Today’s 10 Best in many areas, this spa (operated by the tribe) has every luxury a body could want.

Desert Tasty Tours — Take your sweetheart on a tasting tour of downtown Palm Springs. A little walk, a lotta nosh, and some history for three hours. 

Tahquitz Canyon — One of the most romantic hikes you’ll ever take. After about 45 minutes of non-treacherous walking (and a few short natural stairs), you’ll end up at a lagoon brimming with water supplied by the waterfall that’s replenishing it round the clock. Definitely a question-popping setting.

Romantic repasts

Some classy dinner options for the big night that will show your lover just how thoughtful you are:

Farm — One of the best dinner services and meal experiences I’ve ever had.

Del Rey — I went on paella night, and it was terrific, but you can order whatever you like. It’s cozy and romantic inside.

Spencer’s — This is the OG restaurant everyone’s been going to for years, celebrating anything there is to celebrate in style. It’s still all class.  

Jake’s — Super cozy, with an outdoor patio to boot, I’m told they have a citrus cake that’s outstanding. The rest of the food cracks up there too.

So•Pa — I spent Thanksgiving here once, and I felt so posh. The grounds are lovely and the food is five-star.

Melvyn’s — Frank Sinatra’s favorite was the Steak Diane. Located in the Ingleside Estate, it’s just oozing with 1960s and ’70s history. 

Mr. Lyons — The outside looks nothing like the inside. Outside, it’s all English pub, inside it’s swanky and bright. Order the rolls.

The Purple Room — The weekends are name artists in the jazz world, and the food is delightful. If you’re looking for dinner and a show, this is all Rat Pack feel with a 21st century twist.

Hope this gets your wheels turning so that your partner will say, “I’ve got the best lover ever. Let me tell you what they did for me for Valentine’s Day.” Ssssh….you don’t have to tell them where you got the idea, it’ll be our little secret.

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