By Valerie Milano
Publisher & Senior Editor, The Hollywood Times
Palm Springs, CA (The Hollywood Times) 6/13/26 – One of Palm Springs’ most visible and beloved symbols of LGBTQ+ pride is entering a new chapter.
The massive rainbow flag that has proudly flown above the Arenas District since October 2025 is being retired after an impressive seven months overlooking downtown Palm Springs. While that may seem like a short lifespan for a flag, local organizers consider it a remarkable success given the desert’s intense sun and famously powerful winds.
According to Palm Springs Pride President and CEO Ron deHarte, the original flag exceeded expectations. The manufacturer, who also produces many of the large-scale flags seen throughout the Coachella Valley, initially estimated that the landmark Pride flag would survive only about three months under local weather conditions.
Instead, the flag remained flying for more than twice that length of time.
“It is a testament to the community’s commitment and support that this landmark has become such an iconic part of downtown Palm Springs,” said deHarte in a recent update to supporters.
The Arenas District Landmark Flagpole became a reality after the City of Palm Springs approved a 30-year license agreement with Palm Springs Pride, allowing the organization to construct and maintain the installation. Palm Springs Pride contributed $75,000 to secure the agreement and assumes responsibility for maintenance, insurance, and flag management.
Funding for the project came from a true community effort. Two major donors contributed $50,000, while an additional 163 supporters raised more than $21,000. Palm Springs Pride covered the remaining costs, purchased the initial flags, and continues to fund annual insurance and maintenance.
The landmark was officially dedicated on October 24, 2025, and quickly became a gathering place for residents and visitors alike. Located in the heart of the city’s LGBTQ+ entertainment district, the towering rainbow flag serves as both a welcome symbol and a reminder of Palm Springs’ longstanding commitment to inclusion, equality, and visibility.
Now, as the original flag reaches retirement, Palm Springs Pride is seeking community support to fund replacement flags and ongoing maintenance. At approximately $1,800 per flag, keeping the installation flying year-round requires continued investment.
The response so far has been encouraging.
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Last weekend, Palm Springs Pride launched a fundraising effort to help ensure that replacement flags are ordered and ready to fly. DeHarte expressed confidence that the community will once again step forward to support what has become one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks.
As someone who was honored by Palm Springs Pride with the Spirit of Stonewall Arts & Culture Award in 2025, I have witnessed firsthand the organization’s dedication to preserving and celebrating LGBTQ+ history and visibility. The Arenas District Landmark Flag is more than a flagpole, it is a symbol of community, resilience, and pride that can be seen from blocks away.
Its continued presence reminds both residents and visitors that Palm Springs remains a place where diversity is celebrated and where everyone is welcome.
With community support, that message will continue to fly high above Arenas Road for years to come.
