Palm Springs, CA (The Hollywood Times) 10/2/26 – The opening party for the 35th Dinah brought attendees from all over the world to Hunter’s Nightclub in Palm Springs. Hunter’s, which has been part of the LGBTQ+ nightlife scene for decades, was a fabulous choice for opening night.
The attendees we met came from England, Toronto, Vancouver, New York, and Los Angeles, all wanting to be part of this annual Sapphic celebration founded by Mariah Hanson more than three decades ago.
When Hanson announced her retirement from The Dinah, there was uncertainty about what direction the world’s most famous and largest lesbian party would take. Rose Garcia and Bella Barkow have now taken over the heartbeat.
It was definitely not the last dance for The Dinah.
The crowded dance floor showed that The Dinah’s heartbeat is still pulsing stronger than ever. DJ Suzy Cue, DJ Lancia, and DJ Les Ortiz kept revelers dancing throughout the night to tracks including Stacey Q’s “Two of Hearts,” Cardi B’s “WAP,” and music from Kylie Minogue.
The dance floor was electric. Women were moving to the beats as if there were no tomorrow, no worries, and no bills to pay.
Beyond the ritual of dancing and bringing people together, comfortable lounge couches outside added to the magnetic and magical atmosphere, instantly creating opportunities for conversations and connections.
Women’s music festivals began in the 1970s as spaces for lesbians and queer women to gather together. That tradition continues today, providing places to dance, drink, connect, and celebrate community.
We asked Kristina, a first-timer from Toronto, why she came to The Dinah.
“The hot girls, the hot vibes, hot weather, hot everything,” she said.
Another attendee commented on the wide range of ages represented at The Dinah. The crowd was diverse, beautiful, and sizzling like the desert heat.
The festivities continue tonight with the G-Spot Pool Party from noon to 6 p.m. at the Hilton Hotel, followed by the Singles and Solos Social Hour from 7 to 9 p.m. at Hotel Zoso. The evening finishes with the Black and White Ball from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Pace yourselves, Dinah attendees. There are still two more days to party like your life depends on it.
By Sara Collas
