Since we published our picks, concert promoter Goldenvoice released next year's lineup. Last week we chose 10 bands that should perform at Stagecoach in 2015. Make sure your favorite watering hole makes it to the finals. After that date, only the top 5 gay bars will advance to the final round for a chance to win Best of the Valley status. Then don't forget to vote for your favorite gay bar in the Best of the Valley contest. Before anyone grabs a tiki torch and descends on the Desert Sun's offices, please tell us in the comments why we're right or wrong. We also know many of our readers will disagree with us, which is OK.
We know the Coachella Valley is full of LGBT-friendly bars, and we had a hard time choosing just 10. The Tropicale (330 E Amado Road, Palm Springs): The indoor and outdoor bars at the Tropicale offer a cool Miami vibe for patrons who wish to socialize with a gay-friendly crowd.Toucans Tiki Lounge (2100 N Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs): Toucans appeals to a diverse customer base with its popular Sunday night drag show, Tommi Rose & The Playgirls, and festival after-parties.Studio One 11 (67555 E Palm Canyon Drive, Cathedral City): Studio One 11 is the closest thing the valley's LGBT community has to a piano bar, with pianists performing weekly.Streetbar (224 E Arenas Road, Palm Springs): Streetbar has a neighborhood bar feel and expansive patio, which is great for people-watching.
The Barracks (67–625 E Palm Canyon Drive, Cathedral City): The Barracks' Sunday beer bust always draws a crowd.Alibi Azul (369 N Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs): The Alibi Azul Patio, which features swing seats, is known for its variety of entertainment, including Bella Da Ball's weekly show.In anticipation of the upcoming Greater Palm Springs Pride festivities, we have chosen 10 gay and gay-friendly bars where everyone - gay and straight - can relax and mingle with the local LGBT community. It's the time each year when we get together to celebrate our community, promote equal rights and relax with our family and friends. In a few weeks gays and lesbians across Southern California will gather in downtown Palm Springs to celebrate Pride. And there are few places where it's better to be gay than in the LGBT-friendly Coachella Valley.