Neon Trees to headline Palm Springs Pride opening event ⋆ The Palm Springs Post

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Indie rock sensation Neon Trees is set to kick off Greater Palm Springs Pride with a free performance on Oct. 31, transforming Halloween night into a celebration of LGBTQ+ royalty.

The band will headline Día de la Reina, the opening event of Palm Springs Pride Week, in the Arenas District. The block party, now in its 13th year, marks the beginning of the city’s Pride festivities running from Oct. 31 to Nov. 3.

Known for chart-topping hits like “Animal” and “Everybody Talks,” Neon Trees brings their infectious melodies and high-energy performances to the desert city. The band’s appearance aligns with Palm Springs Pride’s 2024 theme, “Be You,” which champions self-expression, inclusivity, and love.

Ron deHarte, President and CEO of Greater Palm Springs Pride, expresses enthusiasm for the headliner, noting, “We’re incredibly excited to have the Billboard chart-topping band Neon Trees join us. Their music is a perfect fit for the vibrant and inclusive spirit of Palm Springs Pride.”

Neon Trees’ involvement in Pride events extends beyond their music. Frontman Tyler Glenn has been open about his personal journey, exploring themes of faith, sexuality, and growth in his work. His 2016 solo album, “Excommunication,” delved into his experiences growing up in the church and coming out.

In 2017, Glenn co-founded the LOVELOUD Foundation with Imagine Dragons frontman Dan Reynolds. The organization aims to foster unconditional love for LGBTQ+ youth within their communities and families.

“We’re trying to do everything we can to change things with the tone of love,” Glenn says. “Love is a great unifier, and music is a great unifier. That’s always been Neon Trees’ mission as well.”

The band’s commitment to inclusivity and unity through music resonates with the Pride celebration’s goals. Palm Springs Pride promotes diversity, equality, and the freedom to be oneself in a welcoming environment.

Neon Trees’ performance at Día de la Reina is scheduled for 8 p.m. on Oct. 31. The free event takes place on Arenas Road between Indian Canyon Drive and Calle Encilia.

The opening night celebration sets the stage for a week of Pride events throughout Palm Springs. Activities are concentrated in the downtown area and the Arenas District, culminating in the Pride Parade on Nov. 3.

The parade, a highlight of the festivities, begins at 10 a.m. in Uptown Palm Springs, starting at the intersection of Palm Canyon Drive and Tachevah.

Neon Trees’ appearance at Palm Springs Pride coincides with the release of their fifth studio album, “Sink Your Teeth.” The new record showcases the band’s evolution while maintaining the catchy sound that propelled them to fame.

Palm Springs Pride offers a platform for the band to connect with fans and support the LGBTQ+ community. Their performance at Día de la Reina is expected to draw a diverse crowd, blending Halloween revelry with Pride celebrations.

The event transforms the traditional night of “ghosts, ghouls, and goblins” into a celebration of Palm Springs’ LGBTQ+ “Queens and Kings.” This unique fusion of Halloween and Pride themes creates a distinctive start to the week-long festivities.