Feb. 21 Daily Briefing: Theater’s fresh approach, Marilyn on the move, parade preview, and more

TGIF, everyone! In sports, there’s a day known as the slowest day — traditionally the day after the MLB All-Star Game — when there is no activity whatsoever from North America’s “Big Four” sports leagues. In Palm Springs, this weekend might be the opposite — perhaps the busiest of the year (please don’t quote us on that). Between Modernism Week, the Black History Parade & Town Fair, the International Bear Convergence, a McCormick’s Classic Car Auction and much, much more, downtown is guaranteed to be packed! If you’re out and about in the crowds, make sure to take an extra bit of patience, and say hello if you see us! 

🎶 Setting the mood: “Girls On Film” by Duran Duran

LEADING OFF

New management bringing fresh vision to Palm Springs movie theater

For the past few months, the former Regal Theater on East Tahquitz Canyon Way has been closed, but new management has given the location more than just a new look, they’re opening with a slate of new ideas and collaborations. 

Driving the news: Since its ribbon cutting last week, passersby will notice the lights are on, the popcorn is popped, and the projector is whirring at the newly rechristened Festival Theaters.

• The operation is owned by Pasadena-based tech and real estate investor Dale Okuno and run by manager Sky Ciolino and Chief Operating Officer Gerard Noonan.

Why it matters: Since the Regal Theater closed, the city has been without a first-run movie house, meaning residents had to go to neighboring towns if they wanted to catch the big blockbuster films. 

The idea: The theater is focusing on introducing international films to Palm Springs alongside the usual blockbusters and indies. Starting next month, the theater will host “Gay Wednesdays,” featuring iconic LGBTQ films or newer releases with strong LGBTQ themes.

• Also look for “Rocky Horror Picture Show” screenings on the first Saturday of every month.

What to expect: Festival Theaters has prioritized technical improvements over cosmetic upgrades. Ciolino focused on enhancing visual and audio quality, as well as the introduction of higher-quality food options.

Looking ahead: The theater is exploring partnerships with local organizations to expand its community engagement.

• Ciolino mentioned potential collaborations with the Living Desert Zoo to showcase conservation efforts and the Palm Springs Public Library for educational programming.

Dive deeper with Maggie Miles’ complete story

---

BRIEFLY

💃 Marilyn on the move: Iconic statue being relocated starting this weekend

The Forever Marilyn statue in Downtown Palm Springs is packing her bags for a big move … about 100 feet north.

• On Sunday, the moving process will begin for the 26-foot sculpture that sparked so much conversation and debate. The artwork will be relocated just a stone’s throw away from its current spot on Museum Way to its new permanent home in Downtown Park.
  
• Years of debate and legal battles have cost Palm Springs nearly $500,000, including $350,000 in legal fees from a settlement between the city and various parties who took issue with the statue’s placement.
  
• Bottom line: PS Resorts Chair Peggy Trott is looking on the bright side: “We’re excited for Forever Marilyn to finally have a permanent spot in Palm Springs. She brings so much positive attention to our community.” The move is expected to be completed by Friday, Feb. 28.

Dive deeper with our complete story

---

YOUR WEEKEND

MULTIPLE DAYS

• Modernism Week
  
• “My Fair Lady” at the Palm Canyon Theatre. ($40)
  
• Palm Springs International Pride Hockey Tournament at the Berger Foundation Iceplex.
  
• International Bear Convergence 2025 
  
• McCormick’s 78th Car Show & Auction at the Palm Springs Convention Center.

TODAY

• Friends of the Palm Springs Library Book Club at the library at 2 p.m.
  
• Foodie Fridays pop-up at the Cultural Center from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m.
  
• Palm Springs Police and Fire Association Mixer at Lulu California Bistro at 5 p.m. ($20)

SATURDAY

• Tahquitz River Estates Neighborhood Organization Annual Garage Sale starting at 8 a.m.
  
• Certified Farmers’ Market at the Cultural Center at 8 a.m.
  
• Desert Pet Walk at the Palm Springs Animal Shelter at 9 a.m.
  
• “Bolero” screening at the Cultural Center at 10 a.m. ($15)
  
• 38th Annual Black History Parade & Town Fair downtown starting at 11 a.m.
  
• Country Western Dancing at their new address at 933 Crossley Road at 7 p.m. ($5)

SUNDAY

• Tayloraye Kaftans Trunk Show at Market Market on Sunday.
  
• Mah Jong Meetup at Play Lounge & Cafe at 12 p.m.
  
• Idyllwild Arts Academy & The Pacific Trio performance at Palm Springs High School at 2 p.m. ($35)

---

AND FINALLY …

Palm Springs is gearing up for its annual Black History Parade & Town Fair this Saturday in the heart of downtown. This year’s celebration, centered on the theme “African Americans and Labor,” promises to be a vibrant showcase of culture and community spirit.

Driving the news: Leading the parade as Grand Marshals are Eternity Hickman, Miss Black USA Talented Teen, and Josephine Hoskins, Miss Arizona High School America. 

What to watch for: A highlight of the event will be a flyover by a P-51 Mustang from the Palm Springs Air Museum. The aircraft’s distinctive red tail pays homage to the legendary Tuskegee Airmen.

But wait: Following the parade, the festivities continue with a Town Fair from noon to 6 p.m. in Downtown Park. Attendees can look forward to live music, delicious food, and fun activities for all ages.

Details: The parade procession kicks off at 11 a.m., starting at the intersection of Palm Canyon Drive and Baristo Road.