By Ana Maria Gill & Valerie Milano
Photos THT
Palm Springs, CA (The Hollywood Times) 6/12/26 – Palm Springs’ highly anticipated Equality Wine & Food Fest officially kicked off Friday evening with a lively VIP, Media, and Vendor Reception at Boozehounds, setting the stage for Saturday’s Fourth Annual Equality Wine & Food Fest at the Hyatt Palm Springs.
As a proud media partner, The Hollywood Times was represented by Ana Maria Gill, who attended on behalf of publisher Valerie Milano.
The invitation-only gathering brought together festival sponsors, participating wineries, media representatives, vendors, and community supporters for an evening of networking, wine tasting, and celebration. Hosted by Boozehounds, the reception featured wines from MacRostie Winery, Markham Vineyards, and Jordan Winery, along with spirit tastings from Kleos Mastiha Spirits and a selection of appetizers.
“The turnout was fantastic,” said Gill. “The venue was packed, and there was a great energy throughout the evening. It was wonderful to see so many people excited about the festival and the community it supports.”
With conversations flowing and glasses raised, the reception served as a preview of what guests can expect when the festival opens Saturday. The crowd was so enthusiastic that conducting formal interviews proved challenging, a good problem to have for an event celebrating connection and community.
Now in its fourth year, the Palm Springs Equality Wine & Food Fest has become one of the desert’s signature culinary and wine events. Named among the nation’s top LGBTQ+ food and wine festivals, the event showcases wineries, distilleries, food purveyors, and businesses owned by or supportive of LGBTQ+, BIPOC, and women entrepreneurs.
Founded by Michael and Ernie Westman, the festival was created with a purpose beyond wine tasting.
“We wanted to create an event where every glass poured had a deeper meaning,” the organizers have said. “It’s about visibility, representation, and giving back.”
Saturday’s Grand Tasting will feature more than 100 wines, gourmet food offerings, live entertainment, specialty vendors, and a silent auction, all benefiting local charitable organizations. Guests will also have the opportunity to discover producers whose stories reflect the diversity and innovation helping shape today’s wine industry.
The festival is also participating in this year’s XOXO Palm Springs celebration, further expanding its role as a cultural event that promotes inclusion, community engagement, and support for local businesses during the summer season.
As Palm Springs prepares for Saturday’s main event, the excitement generated at Boozehounds suggests another successful year for a festival that continues to grow in both attendance and impact.
Event Information
4th Annual Equality Wine & Food Fest
Saturday, June 13, 2026
Hyatt Palm Springs
Grand Tasting: 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
VIP Entry: 12:00 p.m.
Following the festival, attendees can continue the celebration at the official after-party at Canopy Wine Lounge adjacent to the Hyatt.
For many in attendance Friday evening, the message was clear: Equality Wine & Food Fest is more than a wine festival. It is a celebration of community, inclusion, philanthropy, and the diverse voices helping shape the future of food and wine.
