Our guide to Pride: Five can’t-miss events as the city comes alive this weekend

The 38th annual Palm Springs Pride events got off to a dance-filled start Thursday evening with Día de la Reina, a free block party celebration that kicked off Pride Weekend with headliners Neon Lights, an American indie band known for its mix of pop, rock, and electronic vibes, with influences ranging from ’80s synth-pop to modern indie rock.

But don’t worry—the official kickoff starts today at 4 p.m. with the Arenas District Pride Weekend Kickoff 2024 at East Arenas Road and Indian Canyon Drive. This is the 13th year Palm Springs Pride has closed off the Arenas District and filled it with a weekend of live bands, DJs, events, food trucks, and outdoor beverage lounges. For a full music and entertainment schedule, check here.

Other than all the fun on Arenas, there’s a plethora of exciting, celebratory events taking place across town throughout the weekend at California’s largest free Pride festival south of San Francisco. With a theme of “Be You,” which encompasses the inclusivity and acceptance that makes Palm Springs renowned worldwide, there is sure to be a little something for everyone to celebrate all that is LGBTQ+ in Palm Springs.

Besides the parade, which will take place Sunday at 10 a.m. — beginning in the Uptown Design District at Tachevah and Palm Canyon Drive and ending at the entrance to the Pride Festival at Amado — here are five events we think you shouldn’t miss.

Rainbow Palette: Expressions of LGBTQ+ Artistry

Located at the Stephen Baumbach Gallery today from 1 p.m. until 4 p.m., this free-to-attend art exhibit showcases the diverse creative talents of LGBTQ+ artists across mediums such as painting, sculpture, and photography. The exhibit will feature themes of identity, resilience, and freedom, celebrating the unique perspectives and experiences within the LGBTQ+ community. All artists are donating 10% of their sales to Palm Springs Pride.

LGBTQ Servicemember Wreath Laying Ceremony 

Also today, from 6 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the Pride Festival Amado Stage, this event is a pre-Veterans Day Ceremony with veterans’ organizations and remarks from dignitaries. The ceremony is intended to honor LGBTQ servicemembers and thank all who served in the United States Armed Forces.

Interfaith Pride Kabbalat Shabbat

This evening, from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., at United Methodist Church of Palm Springs (1555 East Alejo), people from all faith communities and beliefs are invited to join the 2024 Pride Welcoming of the Sabbath Service, a pluralistic prayer service with a core of Jewish liturgy led by members of our local clergy.

Palm Springs Pride 5K Run & Walk

Occurring Saturday starting at 8 a.m., the Palm Springs Pride 5K Run & Walk brings together runners and walkers of all ages and abilities to raise funds for local LGBTQ+ organizations and promote inclusivity in our community and sports. Hosted by  Palm Springs Front Runners & Walkers, the 5K has raised $200,000 for worthwhile LGBTQ community organizations since 2016. There’s no same-day registration, so make sure to complete that today.

The Sunday Music Line-Up

If you’re a lover of the classics and like to get out for music a little earlier in the day, this is the day for you. Featuring musical acts Corday, Marisa Corvo, Steven Michael’s Dance Machine, and George Michael Reborn, this day’s musical acts kick off at 12:30 p.m. at the Palm Canyon Drive Main Stage. Corday, who begins at 1:40 p.m. is a popular musical act in Palm Springs, known for high-energy rock performances that mix in pop, reggae, and blues. The band is led by singer-songwriter and guitarist Jennifer Corday, who has made a name for herself in the Southern California music scene with her engaging stage presence and versatile style.

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