By Valerie Milano, Publisher, The Hollywood Times
Palm Springs, CA (The Hollywood Times) 6/10/26 – The Palm Springs Equality Wine & Food Fest returns for its fourth year on Saturday, June 13, bringing together exceptional wines, culinary delights, live entertainment, and a powerful commitment to community. As a proud media partner, The Hollywood Times is excited to help celebrate one of the desert’s most anticipated summer events.
Held inside the atrium of the Hyatt Palm Springs in downtown Palm Springs, the festival continues to grow in both size and impact. Founded and produced by Michael and Ernie Westman, Equality Wine & Food Fest has evolved into much more than a tasting event. It is a celebration of LGBTQ+, women-owned, and people-of-color-owned businesses while raising funds for important local charities.
“We started this event four years ago with a different mindset,” explained producer Michael Westman during a recent interview. “It’s not just a drinking festival. We wanted drinking that wine to have a deeper significance.”
That philosophy remains at the heart of the festival. Attendees will have the opportunity to discover wineries, spirits brands, food vendors, and artisans whose stories and businesses reflect the diversity and creativity of the communities they represent.
“We highlight LGBTQ-owned-and-operated wineries and businesses,” said Westman. “Many attendees discover brands they’ve never encountered before, and we’re helping spread awareness and support for those entrepreneurs.”
This year’s festival will feature wine tastings, local food bites, retail pop-ups, live entertainment, and a silent auction, creating an experience that appeals to both wine enthusiasts and those simply looking to enjoy a fun afternoon with friends.
Adding a new twist to the festivities, producer Ernie Westman will serve as the event’s DJ, bringing even more energy to the celebration.
The 2026 festival also introduces an official after-party at Canopy Wine Lounge, located adjacent to the Hyatt Palm Springs. Beginning immediately after the Grand Tasting concludes, guests who keep their festival wristbands on will receive special discounts and surprises while enjoying additional music and entertainment.
Another exciting development is the festival’s participation in XOXO Palm Springs, the city’s inaugural LGBTQ+ cultural event series. The partnership further strengthens the festival’s role in showcasing diverse voices and creating meaningful experiences during Palm Springs’ summer season.
“It’s important to continue bringing cultural events to the desert,” said Westman. “This helps support local businesses during a traditionally slower time of year while creating opportunities for community connection.”
Although VIP tickets have already sold out, Grand Tasting tickets remain available. Guests can enjoy an afternoon filled with food, wine, spirits, entertainment, and community engagement while supporting causes that make a difference throughout the Coachella Valley.
As the festival enters its fourth year, Equality Wine & Food Fest continues to demonstrate that great wine and great food can also be a force for inclusion, visibility, philanthropy, and community pride.
Event Information
Equality Wine & Food Fest
Saturday, June 13, 2026
Grand Tasting: 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Hyatt Palm Springs
Palm Springs, California
Official After-Party: 4:00 p.m.
Canopy Wine Lounge
For tickets and information, visit EqualityWineFest.com.
This year’s event is also part of the larger XOXO Palm Springs celebration, helping kick off a weekend focused on LGBTQ+ culture, community, and connection throughout the city.
