If you haven’t heard of The Dinah (also known as The Dinah Shore), well then it must be a sapphics best-kept secret because it’s one of the biggest pool parties for queer women in the world. If you’ve watched the first season of The L Word, then you’ll recall the cast heading to a lesbian pool party weekend, where Dana meets Tonya. Well, that’s a real-life festival people. And if you HAVE heard of The Dinah then perhaps you had the same questions as we had: What’s the vibe? What type of people attend? What’s the age range? What happens over the weekend and is it worth the long-haul flight if you’re UK-based like us? Well read on as this year Nonchalant headed to The Dinah (which took place from 26th Sept – 29th Sept 2024) as a media partner to see what it’s all about and bring back the news to all of our readers outside of the US. Read on for our highlights, to understand the vibe and how to enjoy The Dinah in style including other places to check out while in Palm Springs. Skip to the section you want to read by clicking on the handy jump-to links below.
- What’s the vibe like at The Dinah?
- Watch our hightlights video
- Watch our red carpet video
- Where to stay for The Dinah Festival
- What to Pack for The Dinah?
- Places to Eat in Palm Springs
- Other Places to Check Out While in Palm Springs
What’s the Vibe like at The Dinah?
First off, this legendary festival is one of the world’s largest events for queer women and non-binary folks, making it the ultimate celebration of music, pool parties, and pure, unapologetic fun. Held in the stunning city of Palm Springs, California, The Dinah used to take place in late March or early April but since Covid, it’s set in late September every year, so we’re talking 38-42 degrees heat in the gorgeous desert. It brings together thousands of party-goers from all over the globe. Since it started in 1991, this event has become a cornerstone of LGBTQ+ culture, making waves for its inclusivity, wild energy, and iconic performances.
While attending, we met some incredible people, and we can truly say the vibe is open, accepting, friendly and quite frankly a bunch of women supporting women and having a great time. The Dinah harbours an incredibly inclusive atmosphere, trans, queers, non-binary, and all are welcome to The Dinah – we loved to see the fun and inclusive atmosphere. According to TheDailyBeast over 15,000 attend The Dinah, and there is a range of ages, from 21 all the way up to 60+, however, we felt that the average age range was 24-30. The majority that hit up The Dinah tend to be from the US, mainly LA and we met a lot of people that came over from the Caribbean. What’s truly noticeable is that there are very few English people there, which is pretty refreshing. A highly entertaining aspect was that we were often mistaken for Australians.
The Dinah Highlights 2024
What Happens at The Dinah?
The Dinah spans across 5 days. Starting on a Wednesday with the first night in a local nightclub where you can collect your wristbands and warm up for the partying ahead – not a huge amount of people attend this first night but it is a nice ice breaker. The official opening party kicks off on the Thursday night, however, with a lot more arriving. You can decide what you go to during the Dinah and there are a lot of options, but here’s a rough run down on the schedule which does change slightly year on year.
1. Epic Pool Parties
These are the heart of The Dinah. Picture sun-soaked days, thousands of women and enby folks lounging by the pool to DJ sets. The pool parties are known for their vibrant atmosphere, where everyone is living their best lives. There’s lots of booze, PDAs galore and great music. The pool parties take place on Friday, Saturday and Sunday of the festival.
2. Club Nights
After the sun sets, the party continues. From neon-lit clubs to live DJs. These tend to take place at The Margarita Ville in a huge conference room with a stage and sometimes in the local town at nightclubs and bars. It all depends on the year of the event so make sure to check the schedule via the website.
Live Performances & Red Carpet
Each year, The Dinah features performances from top-tier artists. Think legendary icons like Lady Gaga (who made her debut at The Dinah) and the newest queer pop sensations. These stars walk the red carpet on Friday and Saturday night so you’re able to get a glimpse of the press chatting to the performers. The Dinah team also have an array of queer influencers on the red carpet, and these guests will mingle in the club during the performances, so it’s very likely you’ll rub shoulders with a celesbian or two.
The day performances are set up on a stage by the main pool, so you can enjoy the music from the comfort of the cool pool, and you really will want to considering it hits 42 degrees. These performances are a mixture of live performances, DJs and fun activities such as Twerk comps.
3. Comedy Shows & Celebrity Meet-ups
The Dinah also serves up a variety of entertainment beyond the pool parties, from comedy sets featuring queer comedians to meet-and-greets with LGBTQ+ celebs and more.
Where to stay for The Dinah Festival
Palm Springs is known for its chic boutique hotels, and many are LGBTQ+ friendly, making it the perfect spot to shack up during The Dinah. Here are a few options to consider:
Riviera Resort & Spa Palm Springs
This is the main hub for The Dinah, where all the pool parties happen, the daytime gigs and some of the night events. The Riviera Resort & Spa in Palm Springs (also known as the Margaritaville Resort Palm Springs), has around 398 guest rooms and suites. The resort sprawls across several acres and features lush gardens, multiple pools, a spa, and event spaces, making it one of the larger resort properties in Palm Springs.
If you want to be right in the action, with the parties starting at 1pm – 6pm around the pool, and the evening events starting at around 9pm, you’ll have it all right on your doorstep. However, even though all the parties happen here, they do have rooms that are at a distance from the pool parties so you’re also able to take a quiet moment away too.
Hotel ZOSO
The Hotel ZOSO in Palm Springs is a stylish, centrally located resort known for its vibrant atmosphere. It’s right in the heart of downtown, so you are just steps away from shopping, dining, and nightlife. It’s a 5-minute taxi away from the main hub of The Dinah, however, it is located right next to town so walking distance to where the opening parties tend to take place. An absolute highlight of the Hotel ZOSO is that the pool stays open until 10 pm and is like a gorgeous warm bath, as the sun sets with the mountains surrounding you.
The pricing at Hotel ZOSO in Palm Springs varies based on the season, day of the week, and room. Generally for The Dinah weekend dates the rooms range from $150 to $300 per night. This is a great option for those who prefer to have some downtime during The Dinah.
Palm Mountain Resort & Spa
The Palm Mountain Resort & Spa is a laid-back, charming hotel located in downtown Palm Springs. Again, this is also a 5-minute taxi from the main action of The Dinah, but within walking distance to the opening parties. It offers a more relaxed, desert oasis vibe compared to some of the party-centric resorts in the area.
The resort features 142 rooms, including standard rooms and suites with patios or balconies. The decor is simple and comfortable, with South Western touches. Some rooms have views of the San Jacinto Mountains, the pool, or the courtyard. The outdoor heated pool is a centrepiece, surrounded by palm trees and fire pits. There’s also a hot tub and misters to help beat the heat. The pool area tends to be calm, making it a great spot to unwind. The spa offers a variety of treatments, including massages, facials, and body scrubs, for those who want a bit of pampering. It’s steps away from downtown Palm Springs, so guests can easily walk to shops, restaurants, galleries, and nightlife. There’s no on-site restaurant, but the resort does offer a poolside snack service. It’s a great place if you want a quiet, central location with easy access to the main strip.
The resort has a more relaxed and cosy feel, ideal for guests looking for a low-key stay rather than a high-energy scene, so you can consider staying for the whole week, enjoy the hotel pool and Spa and have a heavy weekend at the Dinah – best of both worlds.
Ace Hotel & Swim Club
Think retro vibes, cool mid-century design, and a fab pool scene. It’s a perfect blend of chill and style, located near the heart of the action. But this one is not a cheap option, so if you’re aiming for a really bougie holiday then this one is the budget blower. Standard rooms usually range from $200 to $400 per night. Suites and larger rooms with more amenities can go for $400 to $600+ per night. Weekend rates and peak season prices (like during festivals or events) can push prices higher, sometimes reaching $700 or more per night.
The Saguaro Palm Springs
Known for its vibrant rainbow colours, this hotel is a bit of fun for your stay. Plus, sometimes (depending on the year) it hosts some of the official Dinah events, so you’re just steps away from the party.
AirBnB Options
Seeing as the flights from the UK are 10 hours over to LA, and then a 2-hour drive down to Palm Springs, why not make this a 2-week ordeal and enjoy The Dinah and some rest and relaxation in your own bougie desert retreat with your fave gay pals.
Because Palm Springs is super popular for Coachella goers, the fancy AirBnBs are endless and generally pretty reasonable as it’s practically off-season when The Dinah is on. Check out just one of the examples we’ve found below. This one hosts 8 adult guests, has 3 bathrooms, a swimming pool, pool table, lots of games and more, for only approx £85-£100 each per night, that’s not bad at all.
What to Pack for The Dinah
Packing for The Dinah requires some thought because there’s a lot going on, and let’s face it – you’re likely heading to The Dinah in order to to pull so you’ll need some epic outfits. We’re talking pool parties, club nights, themed nights, and potential holiday sightseeing if you can fit it all in. Mix all that with trying to keep your hair looking nice in 40-degree heat – it’s a lot babe, but we know you can pull it off. Here are some tips.
- Swimsuits & Bikini – yes, people do get in the pool at the pool parties, so consider what you’ll wear for the pool parties. Don’t forget your towel too.
- Sun Protection, Sunglasses, Hats & Suncream – This is a must! Palm Springs is HOT – we’re talking 40 degrees in the middle of the day, so bring shades and suncream. Caps, bandanas, and bucket hats are all advised to protect yourself from the sun while looking like a legend.
- White & Black Party – This is a staple theme for The Dinah each year, and it’s a pretty easy theme to nail. You’ll just need a cool black or white (or both) outfit for the club night on the Friday night. Most people go for suits or dresses – but all vibes are welcome so just do you.
- Eye Drops – this is a weird one, but Palm Springs is the desert, and when walking around your actual eyes dry up in the 40-degree heat – so we recommend either taking eye drops or you can grab some out there from the town area.
Places to Eat in Palm Springs
You’re at the Dinah, you’ve partied solidly for the first 24 hours. We’re here to tell you – Do not forget to eat babes! We know, we know, we’ve been there – it’s easily done. And for our English readers, we know the excitement of The Seven Eleven hotdogs and Big Gulps on a hangover will wear off after your 3rd hot dog (okay, 4th), so it’s time to treat yourself to something a little special. Here’s a list of top food spots to check out during your time in Palm Springs.
Thai Smile
Thai Smile is known for its flavorful dishes, friendly service, and welcoming atmosphere. They offer a variety of classic Thai dishes like Pad Thai, Tom Yum soup, curries, and stir-fried options. The restaurant is conveniently located in the downtown area, making it a great spot for grabbing a delicious meal after exploring the city.
There are a few other Thai restaurants in the area, but Thai Smile is one of the well-known choices for authentic and tasty Thai cuisine.
The Juniper Table
The Juniper Table is a gorgeous restaurant that’s located within the Kimpton Rowan Hotel (just around the corner from Starbucks on the main strip). This is where you’ll get a London-style brunch with an American twist. The brunch menu features a mix of Mediterranean-inspired dishes and American favourites. Popular choices include avocado toast with za’atar, shakshuka, ricotta pancakes, and breakfast sandwiches.
There are also some heartier options like burgers and grain bowls. They also serve speciality coffee drinks, freshly squeezed juices, and craft cocktails. Their brunch cocktails, like mimosas and Bloody Marys, pair perfectly with the menu, and we highly recommend you check out The Seasonal Margarita Flight which is three varieties of margaritas.
Cheeky’s
Cheeky’s in Palm Springs is a beloved brunch and breakfast spot known for its vibrant atmosphere and creative menu. We headed there for yet another hangover brunch and enjoyed America-style pancakes and fresh juices. Sit outside in the courtyard and enjoy staying cool under their misters while you brunch.
Other Places to Check Out While in Palm Springs
While The Dinah will take up most of your time, Palm Springs is an impressive desert city with plenty to explore. If you’re staying a little longer or just want to sneak in some local adventures, check the below spots out. Before you get started though, we highly recommend you hire a car for your squad to get about. Why not consider a convertible or a Jeep to turn up in style?
1. Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
Take in breathtaking views of the Coachella Valley from the world’s largest rotating tram car. The perfect way to wind down from the weekend.
2. The Trixie Motel
The Trixie Motel is a pink boutique hotel in Palm Springs, owned by drag superstar Trixie Mattel. It’s a unique blend of camp, barbie pink design with a glamorous retro vibe, making it a destination in itself. We highly recommend you go for a drink, or at least pop into the gift shop.
The Trixie Motel is located at 210 W Stevens Rd, Palm Springs, CA 92262. It’s situated close to the heart of Palm Springs, so you can check it out whilst near the main shops and restaurants.
3. Shopping on Palm Canyon Drive
For all the fashionistas out there, Palm Canyon Drive is packed with boutique shops, art galleries, and trendy cafes. It’s the perfect place to snag a stylish souvenir.
4. Joshua Tree National Park
If you’re into hiking (let’s go lesbians, we love a hike don’t we?) or just want to explore the desert landscape, Joshua Tree is just a short drive from Palm Springs and is an absolutely magical spot to visit. Who wouldn’t want a little road trip with your pals for the day to pretend you’re in the series of Breaking Bad? We spent a whole day checking out the National Park, here’s our tips below. We recommend you head straight to the Joshua Park Visitors Centre first to get your pass into the national park, this is $23.
“Don’t die today” – This is on signs everywhere around the park and they’re not messing around here. The desert reaches 50 degrees in some seasons and there isn’t any phone reception in most parts so you absolutely must take bottles of water with you, sunblock, hats, food, and make sure your car has enough petrol and is in good working order. No one wants to break down in the desert. Yikes.
Cayote Corner – This is an area where you’ll find charming and colour desert shops. It’s super quirky and not something you’d see anywhere else. While there check out the Crochet Museum, Joshua Tree Gift Shop where you can grab a cactus water (which is nicer than it sounds), and Joshua Tree Saloon.
Skull Rock – definitely one you can check out in 15 minutes on the way to Cholla Cactus Garden. You can pull over and park in the spots they’ve provided. Skull Rock is a popular natural rock formation. It gets its name from its distinctive shape, which resembles a human skull, with two hollowed-out depressions that look like eye sockets.
Cholla Cactus Garden – This is where you want to be 45 minutes before sunset, you’ll see the cacti glowing in the sun before it goes behind the mountains. At this point, you should drive north to see the sun set over the hemisphere where it’s not covered by mountains.
The Bottom Line
And there you have it, all of our top tips for doing The Dinah in style. Whether you’re there for the parties, the performances, or just to connect with the amazing queer community, The Dinah is an experience like no other. Make sure to pack your style, your energy, and your best dance moves. See you at The Dinah next year!
Team Nonchalant x
This article was written by one of our creative team writers here at Nonchalant Magazine.
