Your guide to this year’s Palm Springs Pride

You thought Pride Season was over? Well, Palm Springs just said, “Hold my wig.”

Each fall, the scenic and sunny California city attracts thousands of visitors from across the world for Palm Springs Pride. Leave the jacket at home; here, it’s all warm temps, cold drinks, and rainbows year-round.

The theme of this year’s celebration — which takes over downtown from Thursday, November 6, to Sunday, November 9 — is “Be Heard.”

And based on how expansive the city’s 2025 party is shaping up to be, the title couldn’t be more appropriate!

Pack your bags, we’re going on an adventure

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What to do

As one of the gayest cities in the United States, Palm Springs spares no expense, detail, or sequin in their days-long celebration.

This year’s festivities kick off early with the brand-new Inaugural Pride Equality Walk on October 25 and an anniversary benefit screening of the iconic Sordid Lives on November 6, including a Q&A with creator Del Shores and Emerson Collins.

Then, the party continues with the Pride Festival, which takes over various open-air downtown spots, and runs from Thursday, November 6, to Sunday, November 9.

Attendees can expect sips and bites from Palm Springs favorites, larger-than-life performances (including jazz and Broadway tributes, comedy, and Divas of the Desert: A Roberta Flack Homecoming, hosted by Sweet Baby J’ai), and hundreds of vendors, like The Pride Store.

Of course, the can’t-miss event is the parade on Sunday, November 9. The colorful celebration, which draws thousands of spectators on its palm tree-lined streets, kicks off at 10 a.m. and travels south through the downtown area.

Over its two-hour run, expect drag queens, celebs, and lots of glitter.

Where to eat

Trio Restaurant

The “it” spot 707 N Palm Canyon Dr · Palm Springs, CA 92262
(760) 864-8746
Website

This chef-driven eatery, located in the heart of the Uptown Design District, is a place to see and be seen.

Their menu offers the best in California-borne cuisine, including pasta, salads, seafood, and lip-lick-worthy desserts

Bongo Johnny’s Patio Bar & Grill Palm Springs

Casual spot with a late-night menu 301 N Palm Canyon Dr · Palm Springs, CA 92262
(760) 866-1905
Website

Bongo Johnny’s is a late-night bar and grill with a dedication to “simply delicious”-ness.

Between their signature cocktails, well-grilled meats, and scenic patio views, there’s no better place in town to grab a burger.

Where to drink

OK, to be fair, the party is up and down nearly every street during Palm Springs Pride. That said, the gays’ desert paradise has no shortage of iconic and historic LGBTQ+ bars and clubs worth making the pilgrimage to during your visit.

For a leather and kinkier vibe, check out Dick’s on Arenas; for a chiller night out, visit the aptly-named Chill Bar; and for some dancing and can’t-miss drink specials, swing by longtime favorite Hunters.

Related

What are the best gay bars in Palm Springs?
The Californian oasis promises fun in the sun, but after the sun sets, it heats up with a bevy of bars that sizzle.

Where to stay

Inndulge Palm Springs

Clothing-optional resort 601 S Grenfall Rd · Palm Springs, CA 92264
(760) 327-1408
Website

This clothing-optional resort is a GayCities favorite, and not just because of its recent upgrades, including refurbished rooms, a new roof, and a refitted swimming pool.

Most importantly, its longtime owners pride themselves on always providing “a safe space” for the LGBTQ+ community.

Desert Paradise Hotel

Hollywood-themed suites 615 S Warm Sands Dr · Palm Springs, CA 92264
(760) 320-5650
Website

You can’t go wrong with this Hollywood-themed hot spot, with clothing-optional grounds, lush greenery, and rooms honoring icons like Madonna, Bette Midler, and Barbra Streisand.

Just beware, if you stay in the Joan Crawford Suite, there’s a strict “no wire hanger” rule!

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