Highlights of the Legendary White Party Palm Springs 2019: 30th Anniversary Edition
The nation's largest gay dance music festival, White Party Palm Springs, occurred April 26–29, 2019, in Greater Palm Springs. Celebrating its 30th anniversary, this iconic event was founded by Jeffrey Sanker, whose party legacy began in 1980s New York City. Now producing global events, Sanker calls Palm Springs home and has a star on the Palm Springs Walk of Fame.
2019 also marked the 50th anniversary of the Stonewall Riots, the catalyst for the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement. White Party embodied this spirit of freedom, mirroring the origins of Pride celebrations.
Over 30 years, its growth reflects decades of activism, drawing more than 30,000 attendees worldwide.
White Party 2019 featured seven parties across four days at two venues: evening events at the Palm Springs Convention Center and daytime pool parties at the new host hotel, Hilton Palm Springs.
On Friday, April 26, the "Splash" pool party (12:00–6:00 p.m.) boasted a redesigned stage, poolside dance floor, massive LED screens, daybeds, cabanas, and beats from DJ Blacklow.
That night, the Convention Center hosted the "Military Ball" (10:00 p.m.–5:00 a.m.), with DJs Oscar Velazquez and GSP. Dress in sexy military or jock attire and stand at attention. Headliners Nikki Valentine and Amanda hailed from Brazil.
Saturday, April 27, brought the "Muscle" pool party at the Hilton (10:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.), with go-go boys and DJs Isis Muretech and Anne Louise soundtracking your showcase of fitness dedication.
Saturday's marquee "House of Gods" at the Convention Center required daring white outfits. This innovative production featured DJs Aron, Nina Flowers, and Dan Slater, a live set by Beth Anne Sacks, and a headliner TBA.
Sunday, April 28, offered a relaxed Hilton pool party (11:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.) with DJ Kitty Glitter.
At 3:00 p.m., the Circus T-Dance launched at "White Party Park" (across from the Convention Center), with DJs Ben Bakson and Suri, animal-themed go-go boys, stunning lights and sound. RuPaul’s Drag Race All-Star Shangela performed live, with more surprises.
The Circus T-Dance ended at 10:00 p.m., transitioning to the closing "Papa Tribal" by Eliad Cohen—a jungle-themed party with tribal beats from DJs Abel and Dani Toro.
Ticket options included individual events, weekend passes, daybeds, cabanas, and VIP experiences, available online here. Follow @ILoveGayPS @JeffreySanker with #WhiteParty #ILoveGayCircuit #ILoveGayPalmSprings.
