For 25 years lesbians from all walks of life, and from the furthest reaches of the globe, have make the annual pilgrimage to Palm Spring in search of everything from fun in the sun to live performances by some of today’s freshest female musical acts.
This over-the-top celebration of women, by women and for women – also billed as the “biggest lesbian event of its kind on the planet” – takes place just four hours away from Phoenix, making it a perfect road trip-worthy weekend getaway. Read more in "The Dinah Turns 25" and "Meet the Funny Ladies of The Dinah."
Echo caught up with two Arizonans, who also happen to be “Dinah virgins,” before they hit the road.
Jacqueline Weinstein, an Arizona native, said she’s looking forward to her first visit to Palm Springs and plans to incorporate some shopping and hiking into her wild weekend.
“I’m going to The Dinah with a really fun group of girls because I heard it’s a blast and it is a present to myself for recently coming out to both my family and professionally,” Weinstein said. “I’m more of a spectator when it comes to crazy pool parties, so I’m hoping to be entertained. I’m just excited to be a part of this big anniversary – and to see Meghan Trainor perform!”
According to Briana Lyn Milam, who lives in Surprise, Ariz., the 25th anniversary – combined with the fact that she’s single – was reason enough to finally see what all the fuss was about.
“In the past 25 years styles have changed, attitudes have changed and The Dinah continues to attract different crowds of people from all over the world to come and party,” Milam said. “I’m finally making the trip because my friends said it’s a blast. Palm Springs is gorgeous and it’s always nice to take a break from the Arizona heat.
I’m looking forward to relaxing for a couple days, meeting new friends and making some great memories.”
Because of the proximity, Arizona has always been well represented at the event.
“We love our Arizona contingency,” said Mariah Hanson, the event’s founder and producer, adding that the Grand Canyon State is a really important market. “The Arizona girls know how to party! We’re welcoming you guys with big smiles. It’s going to be an incredible year. We’re just really excited.”
The Dinah: Weekend Itinerary
The Dinah Official Opening Pre-Party
April 1 | 8 p.m.-midnight
Hacienda Cantina and Beach Club
Dinah Comedy Night
April 2 | Doors open at 7:30 p.m.; show starts at 9 p.m.
Palm Springs Convention Center
277 N. Avenida Caballeros, Palm Springs
The Dinah Opening Party
April 2 | 9 p.m.-midnight
Zelda’s Nightclub
611 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs
TGIDF Pool Party
April 3 | noon-5 p.m.
Hilton Hotel’s Main Pool
400 N. Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs
An Evening in Concert with Christina Perri
April 3 | Doors open at 8 p.m.; show starts at 9 p.m.
Palm Springs Convention Center
277 N. Avenida Caballeros, Palm Springs
The Dinah White Party featuring Ivy Levan
April 3 | 9 p.m.
Palm Springs Convention Center
277 N. Avenida Caballeros, Palm Springs
The Cabana Girl Pool Party featuring Crystal Waters
April 4 | 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Hilton Hotel’s Main Pool
400 N. Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs
Battle of the DJs
April 4 and 5 | beginning at noon
Hilton Hotel’s Main Pool
400 N. Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs
An Evening in Concert with Meghan Trainor
April 4 | Doors open at 8 p.m.; show starts at 9 p.m.
Palm Springs Convention Center
277 N. Avenida Caballeros, Palm Springs
The Black Party featuring Bebe Rexha
April 4 | 9 p.m.
Palm Springs Convention Center
277 N. Avenida Caballeros, Palm Springs
The Wet and Wild Pool Party featuring Rose Royce
April 5 | 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Hilton Hotel’s Main Pool
400 N. Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs
The Dinah Closing Party featuring E11even
April 5 | 9 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Zelda’s Nightclub
611 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs