The Palm Springs Pride Festival is gearing up to be the hottest event of the year, and honey, you won’t want to miss it. With the legendary Sister Sledge featuring Sledgendary® taking center stage, this festival is set to be an unforgettable celebration of love, diversity, and self-expression. Grab your glitter and get ready to strut down Palm Canyon Drive because the party of the year is about to go down.

This isn’t just another pride festival; it’s a full-on extravaganza that celebrates who we are, loud and proud. From iconic performances to vibrant parades, Palm Springs is rolling out the rainbow carpet for everyone under the LGBTQ+ umbrella and our fabulous allies. The 2024 theme, “Be You,” invites everyone to embrace their true selves without hesitation or apology.

In this article, we’ll spill all the tea on what to expect at this year’s festival. From the star-studded lineup to the empowering message behind the festivities, we’ve got all the deets you need to make the most of Palm Springs Pride 2024. So, sit back, relax, and let’s dive into the fabulousness that’s about to unfold.

Sister Sledge Featuring Sledgendary®: The Ultimate Headliners

Get ready to groove because Sister Sledge featuring Sledgendary® is set to light up the main stage on Saturday, November 2, at 8:00 P.M. Known for timeless hits like “We Are Family,” “He’s the Greatest Dancer,” and “Lost in Music,” these disco divas are sure to bring down the house. Their performance is more than just music; it’s a celebration of unity and togetherness that perfectly aligns with the festival’s “Be You” theme.

Presented by Visit Lauderdale, their appearance is a testament to the festival’s commitment to delivering top-notch entertainment. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to their beats, Sister Sledge’s performance promises to be a highlight you won’t soon forget. So, dust off those dancing shoes and get ready to boogie the night away.

This iconic group’s presence underscores the festival’s dedication to showcasing legendary talent that resonates with the LGBTQ+ community. It’s not just about the music; it’s about creating moments that bring us all closer together.

A Star-Studded Lineup That Keeps On Giving

The excitement doesn’t stop with Sister Sledge. The festival boasts an impressive lineup that includes Neon Trees, George Michael Reborn tribute act, Brian Justin Crum, and Pretty Poison featuring Jade Starling. Each artist brings their unique flair, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Neon Trees will kick things off on Thursday, October 31, at 8:00 P.M. Their energetic performance is sure to set the tone for an incredible weekend. If you’re a fan of pop-rock anthems, you won’t want to miss their set on the Arenas Stage.

The George Michael Reborn tribute act is another must-see. Relive the magic of George Michael’s iconic hits on Sunday, November 3. It’s the perfect way to honor a legend who has left an indelible mark on our community.

Brian Justin Crum, known for his powerful vocals on “America’s Got Talent,” will also grace the stage. His performance is scheduled for Saturday, November 2, at the Oscar’s Stage. Get ready to be blown away by his vocal prowess and emotional depth.

Embracing the “Be You” Theme

The 2024 Pride Week theme, “Be You,” is more than just a catchy slogan; it’s a heartfelt invitation to embrace authenticity. Ron deHarte, Palm Springs Pride President and CEO, emphasizes that the festival is a space where everyone can be true to themselves. It’s about celebrating individuality and the diverse mosaic that makes up our vibrant community.

This theme resonates throughout the festival, from the performers to the activities planned. It’s a reminder that pride is not just a once-a-year event but a daily celebration of who we are. Whether you’re out and proud or still finding your way, Palm Springs Pride offers a welcoming environment for all.

The “Be You” message encourages attendees to express themselves freely, fostering a sense of belonging and acceptance. It’s about breaking down barriers and building connections that last long after the festival ends.

Visit Lauderdale’s Commitment to Inclusivity

Visit Lauderdale’s role as the Diamond sponsor and headliner sponsor highlights their dedication to the LGBTQ+ community. Richard Gray, Senior Vice President of Inclusion & Accessibility for Visit Lauderdale, notes that their support goes beyond financial contributions. It’s about visibility, recognition, and advocating for inclusion, equality, and acceptance.

Their sponsorship of Sister Sledge is a significant gesture that showcases their commitment to making a positive impact. It’s partnerships like these that help elevate the festival and provide resources to make it accessible to all.

Visit Lauderdale’s involvement also reflects the broader support from businesses and organizations that value diversity. Their participation enhances the festival’s offerings and underscores the importance of allyship in our community.

Exciting Events Across Multiple Stages

The festival spans several stages, each offering a unique lineup of performers and experiences. Let’s break down some of the highlights you won’t want to miss.

• Arenas Stage Highlights
  • Thursday, October 31: Neon Trees kicks off the festivities at 8:00 P.M. Their high-energy performance is sure to get you moving.
  • Friday, November 1: The Desert Air Festival Takeover, presented by Splash House and Goldenvoice, promises an unforgettable night of music and dancing.
  • Saturday, November 2: Fire Island Pines x Utramaroon Takeover features DJs like Scott Martin, Lupe Fuentes, and Someone from Berlin. Later, the Fire Island Pines x WeHo Takeover keeps the party going with Aaron Elvis and Matthew Pernicano.
  • Sunday, November 3: The KGAY 106.5/92.1 & Gay Desert Guide Takeover brings DJs Eric Ornelas, Galaxy, and MODGIRL to the stage.
• Palm Canyon Drive Main Stage Highlights
  • Friday, November 1: The Servicemember Wreath Laying Ceremony honors those who have served. Later, Vanity Halston presents “The Ex-Wives Club,” a drag parody tribute of “Six the Musical,” followed by a blast-off with MODGIRL.
  • Saturday, November 2: The day is packed with performances from the Palm Springs Gay Men’s Chorus, Angelique VaGorgeous, Keisha D, Steven Michael’s Dance Machine, Z LaLa, Jackette Knightley, and Jesika Von Rabbit, all leading up to Sister Sledge’s headline performance.
  • Sunday, November 3: Corday, Marisa Corvo, and Steven Michael’s Dance Machine take the stage, with the George Michael Reborn tribute act closing out the festival.

Diverse Performances for Every Taste

From drag brunches to dance contests, the festival offers a variety of events catering to different interests. The Oscar’s Stage, located at Tahquitz and Indian Canyon Rd, features:

• Saturday, November 2: Bitchiest Brunch with Anita Rose, performances by the Nickerson-Rossi Dance Company, and a Play Lounge Biscuit Eating Contest. The evening includes acts like Dina Jacobs, Aurelio Sánchez as Mariah Carey, April Diamond, Charlie Brown, and Brian Justin Crum.
• Sunday, November 3: Another round of Bitchiest Brunch with Anita Rose and a performance by Pretty Poison featuring Jade Starling. The Desert Flaggers kick off Oscar’s Tea Dance to wrap up the festivities.

Community and Corporate Support

The festival’s success is made possible by the generous support of sponsors at various levels. From presenting sponsor City of Palm Springs to diamond sponsor Visit Lauderdale, their contributions ensure the event remains free and accessible.

Associate sponsors like P.S. Resorts, La Crema, Nutrl, Coachella Valley Firebirds, and Absolut play a crucial role. Rainbow sponsors include New Orleans Welcomes All, The LGBTQ+ Community Center of the Desert, Volvo Cars Palm Springs, Alaska Airlines, and more.

Lambda and community sponsors also provide invaluable support, highlighting the collective effort to celebrate and uplift the LGBTQ+ community.

Pride Parade: A Colorful Display of Unity

The annual Palm Springs Pride Parade is a highlight of the festival, starting at 10:00 A.M. on Sunday, November 3, in Uptown at Palm Canyon Drive and Tachevah. It’s a vibrant display of unity, featuring floats, marching bands, and community groups all coming together in a dazzling procession.

Whether you’re marching or cheering from the sidelines, the parade is an opportunity to celebrate our identities and the progress we’ve made. It’s a powerful reminder of the strength and resilience of the LGBTQ+ community.

Embracing Self-Expression and Inclusivity

Palm Springs Pride is more than an event; it’s a movement that champions self-expression and inclusivity. The festival creates a safe space where everyone is encouraged to be themselves, fostering connections and creating memories that last a lifetime.

With activities and performances that cater to a wide range of interests, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re into music, dance, or just soaking up the vibrant atmosphere, the festival welcomes you with open arms.

Plan Your Visit and Join the Celebration

Now that you’re in the know, it’s time to start planning your visit. The festival runs from October 31 to November 3, taking over downtown Palm Springs and the Arenas District. With so much to see and do, you’ll want to make sure you don’t miss a beat.

Check out the full schedule at pspride.org and start coordinating with your crew. Whether you’re a local or traveling from afar, Palm Springs Pride 2024 is shaping up to be the event of the year.

Join the Festivities and Celebrate Pride

There’s no better place to celebrate pride than at the Palm Springs Pride Festival. With a phenomenal lineup, a welcoming community, and an atmosphere that’s electric, it’s the perfect opportunity to be unapologetically you.

So mark your calendars, pack your most fabulous outfits, and get ready to join the celebration. We can’t wait to see you there, living your truth and shining bright.

Share Your Excitement

Are you as pumped as we are about Palm Springs Pride 2024? Drop a comment below and let us know which performances you’re most excited to see or share your past festival experiences. Let’s get the conversation started!