Pride in Palm Springs: Celebrating Inclusivity and Joy

In Palm Springs, inclusivity is woven into the very fabric of the community. Known for its vibrant culture and celebration of diversity, this sunny oasis embodies Pride's spirit year-round. However, during the fall, Palm Springs transforms into a dazzling kaleidoscope of color, music, and love as it hosts a myriad of LGBTQ+ events over several festive months.

Pride's Desert Bloom: A Colorful History

1986 Palm Springs witnessed its first Pride celebration, aptly named 'Sizzle' - as if the desert wasn't hot enough! This evening of revelry marked the beginning of a vibrant tradition in the Coachella Valley.

Born from the embers of the 1969 Stonewall Rebellion in New York City's Christopher Street, Palm Springs Pride carries the torch of awareness and equality. It reminds us that rainbows can flourish even in the desert.

The Pride organization didn't just walk—it paraded forward. In 1997, it strutted its way to official 501(c)(3) non-profit status. Since then, it's been painting the town in all the colors of the rainbow, bringing together a kaleidoscope of skills, talents, and visions from our diverse community.

Today, Palm Springs Pride is more than just a moment - a movement. From its flagship parade to a multi-day festival extravaganza, it's become a year-round celebration of love, equality, and fabulousness in the Coachella Valley.

Greater Palm Springs Pride® (October 31 – November 3)

Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the desert, the Greater Palm Springs Pride is a celebration like no other. Each year, the city comes alive with rainbow flags adorning every corner, lively parades, and events that attract visitors worldwide. This year’s theme, "BE YOU," encapsulates the essence of self-expression, inclusiveness, and unconditional love. It’s a celebration where you can truly be yourself. https://www.pspride.org/pride

Event Highlights

October 30 – Film Night

Kickstart your Pride experience with an evening of art, film, and cocktails at the Palm Springs Cultural Center. Celebrate the Tom of Finland Foundation's 40th Anniversary with a special screening of selected shorts and a preview of the upcoming documentary House of Leather (2025).

October 31 – Palm Springs Pride’s Día de la Reina

Join the free block party at the Arenas District, headlined by the iconic indie rock band Neon Trees. Come dressed in your best Halloween costume, or simply as yourself—either way, you’re in for a night filled with music, food, and joy.

November 2 & 3 – Pride Festival Marketplace & Entertainment

Sip, sashay, and celebrate across several downtown venues. From Vanity Halston's drag parody of Six the Musical to performances by Sister Sledge, the festival is packed with entertainment that honors the LGBTQ+ community.

Pride Parade Nov 3, 10 am-Noon

The colorful parade steps off in the Uptown Design District at Tachevah and Palm Canyon Dr. and travels south through downtown, ending at the Pride Festival at Amado.

More Events to Explore

1. Rainbow Palette Art Exhibit (November 1): Discover diverse works by LGBTQ+ artists at the Stephen Baumbach Gallery. A celebration of queer artistry, with 10% of sales going to PS Pride.
2. La Cage Aux Folles (November 1 – 3): Enjoy the dazzling musical based on the classic French play at the Palm Canyon Theater.
3. Greater Palm Springs Pride Parade (November 3): Join thousands in a parade of vibrant costumes and uplifting energy as they march down Palm Canyon Drive.
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Family-Friendly Fun

Families are more than welcome at the Greater Palm Springs Pride. With activities like the Children’s Headquarters and the Youth Zone, there's something for everyone. Enjoy arts, crafts, games, and entertainment in a safe and inclusive environment.

Be Part of Something Bigger

Pride in Palm Springs is more than just an event; it’s a movement. It’s a time to celebrate the incredible diversity within the LGBTQ+ community and honor the progress toward equality and acceptance. Whether local or a visitor, you can join this celebration of love, identity, and pride.

Prepare to be amazed by the energy, creativity, and inclusivity that make Palm Springs Pride an unforgettable experience. We can’t wait to see you there! 🌈 #PalmSpringsPride #BeYou

Image by gagnonm1993