Palm Springs Celebrates as Gay and Lesbian Couples Legally Say 'I Do'

By Kelly O'Connor

It's Time to Party — Desert Residents Rejoice in Right to Marry

Same-sex couples can legally marry in California, the second state, after Massachusetts, to allow this right.

Gay and lesbian partners across the state, and here in the Palm Springs area, are celebrating their commitments and making them "official."

Join in the festivities as California makes history by granting same-sex couples this long-awaited freedom to marry.

Go Pink at the Parker

On Friday, June 20, the Parker Palm Springs hotel presents "A Pink Celebration of Marriage," along with partner Let California Ring, a campaign that has remained steadfast in its support of gay and lesbian marriage, as well as educating the public about the respect, support, protections, and responsibilities, that come with the union.

Guests will be escorted down the pink promenade, to the Pink Palace as the Parker decks out their hotel grounds for this special event. Couples are invited to celebrate their unions or propose to their partner in the lavish surroundings.

There will be dancing, food, and entertainment by DJ Luc Bench.

Come one, come all — this is the time for couples and singles, gay or straight, to celebrate marriage.

6-10 p.m., June 20, 4200 E. Palm Canyon Dr., Palm Springs, 770-5000. For more info, visit www.theparkerpalmsprings.com.

Dance in the Streets

The party continues in Palm Springs on Sat., June 21 as Mayor Steve Pougnet and members of the city council will perform weddings in downtown Palm Springs.

There will be wedding cakes, a cash bar, entertainment by comedian Shann Carr and DJ Corey White, and an appearance by activist Christine Chavez and other surprise guests — but most importantly DANCING IN THE STREETS.

7-10 p.m., June 21, Downtown Palm Springs, La Plaza between Indian Canyon and Palm Canyon. For more information, visit www.marriedinpalmsprings.com