New LGBTQ+ nightclub opens in Cathedral City, bringing new life to historic nightlife location

CATHEDRAL CITY, Calif. (KESQ) – A longtime LGBTQ+ nightlife location in Cathedral City is getting a new beginning, more than two years after its former nightclub closed amid controversy.

Eagle Cathedral City is celebrating its grand opening Friday, October 30, following a multimillion-dollar renovation of the property at 67625 East Palm Canyon Drive.

The location was previously home to The Barracks, a popular LGBTQ+ leather bar that served the community for more than three decades before closing in August 2024 amid regulatory issues and disputes involving the former owner.

Now, new ownership is looking to bring the space back to life with an extensive renovation that included a new roof, electrical and plumbing systems, upgraded lighting and sound, and an expanded outdoor patio.

According to founder and CEO Phillip Nalwalker, the project has generated significant community interest, raising more than $1.4 million from 234 investors through crowdfunding platform Wefunder before opening its doors.

The newly renovated nightclub has a reported capacity of 777 people and is opening just in time for Palm Springs Leather Pride weekend.

Cathedral City officials are joining the owners for a ribbon-cutting ceremony Friday morning to mark the occasion.

But beyond the renovations and investment, the opening also marks a new chapter for a location with deep roots in the Coachella Valley's LGBTQ+ community.

News Channel 3's Raymond Kalra is taking a closer look at the history behind the property, the transformation of the nightclub, and what its reopening means for the community.

Watch his full report tonight at 6 p.m. on News Channel 3.