LGBTQ businesses adjust as Palm Springs Pride moves online

Palm Springs Pride will go on this weekend as a virtual event. And, it just won't be the same for local businesses, who would normally be expecting a big weekend in Palm Springs.

News Channel 3's Dani Romero shows us how businesses are adjusting their plans to make the most of it.

Palm Springs Pride is going to look different this year as the events have moved online. Businesses on Arenas Road would be gearing up for pride festivities but that's all changed.

The Palm Springs pride parade won't be marching through downtown this year.

"it's a heartbreak for everybody its this new world order for us for a little bit but we are looking to get through that by still be prideful," said Dean Lavine.

Dean Lavine, owner of Blackbook Bar, is planning to make staffing changes this weekend.

"We bring on extra staff members to help manage people," said Lavine. "Get them seated properly and safely where they can have to wait and have a list going."

And Lavine said their outdoor seating area will remain the same.

"We have pretty much set tables and, and with social distancing and for COVID prepare preparation."

As for Hunter's Bar, employees there are trying to keep the momentum alive.

"We're just hoping the rain stays away a little, we have tents in the back, we have our heaters when it's cold for the night and we are just trying to make the experience as best as possible for people that are coming out of town," said Mary Bongard, Manager at Hunter's Bar.

Code enforcement officers were also making their rounds to businesses reminding them of the city guidelines.

But with most of this year's pride events  across the country being cancelled or moved online due to the pandemic, some still came out to support Palm Springs.

"As far as vacation cities go, Palm Springs is done the best at getting outdoor seating going and making sure that everyone is practicing social distancing, while still being able to have fun," said Sebastian Stephens, visiting from Oregon.

While others felt it wasn't the same.

"No this is nothing like pride weekend its usually a huge holiday especially here and we get so many people,"said Jerry. "We have a big band and lots of entertainment, the streets shut off this isn't even as busy as a normal weekend would be here."

But the pandemic cannot mask the reason behind the celebration.

"We just love everybody, We love the support just keep coming to Palm Springs will make it as safe as possible."

David Powell, from the Desert Business Association, told News Channel 3 that they have been encouraging businesses to participate in decorating their window display and putting up flags in support.

Here are a list of activities going on for Palm Springs Pride:

Drive-In Movie Night 

On Friday and Saturday night, the Palm Springs Cultural Center will be hosting a drive-in movie night showing the movie “Cured” at Camelot Theatres located at 2300 E Baristo Rd. 

Both nights the drive-in screening event will take place 5:30-9:30 p.m. 

Interfaith Pride Kabbalat Shabbat

People of all faith communities and beliefs are invited to join the 2020 Pride Welcoming of the Sabbath Service. People can watch the live stream event at 6:30 p.m. on Friday. 

The Interfaith Pride Kabbalat Shabbat is a pluralistic online prayer service with a core of Jewish liturgy will include song, ancient poetry, contemporary readings and meditation led by members of local clergy.

Palm Springs Pride Parade Replay 

Many are disappointed that the annual Palm Springs Pride Parade won’t be happening this year due to the pandemic. However, PromoHomo.TV will be rebroadcasting, in their entirety, the 2017, 2018 and 2019 Palm Springs Pride Parades, available worldwide on YouTube, Facebook and at PromoHomo.TV. The 2018 parade will air November 7th and the 2019 parade can be seen November 8th.

Virtual Lighting Ceremony 

"Light Up the Night" presented by Gay Desert Guide on Nov. 6th and Nov. 7th 5:00 p.m. to midnight: Everyone is invited to host their own virtual lighting ceremony alongside thousands of other advocates for equality, equity, and diversity across Greater Palm Springs. 

Light Up the Night will also honor those impacted by COVID-19, to remember loved ones lost, and to create a "glowing show of community support."

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