What can only be described as the lesbian mecca, Club Skirts Dinah Shore event offers women ages 21 and older a five day weekend getaway complete with billboard headliners, pool parties, and enough celebrity lesbians to make you feel like you’re starring in your own reality television show. Founded by Mariah Hanson in 1991, The Dinah has grown to become the largest lesbian party in the world.
However, The Dinah is much more than just another women’s party: it’s an opportunity for lesbians from all over the United States and abroad to connect, make friends, and celebrate their diversity and womanhood in a place that is safe and inclusive for all.
“I think there’s so many different ways of describing The Dinah experience,” says Mona Elyafi, CEO of ILDK Media and publicist for the Club Skirts Dinah Shore. “It’s a unique place for anyone. Whether you’re openly out or not, you have a chance to be who you are without fearing the judgment and discrimination of others.”
Club Skirts takes over the entire city of Palm Springs, partnering with local businesses and government to ensure all attendees are welcomed. Very few lesbian events in the world can offer this kind of inclusive environment.
As if the sun and warm weather wasn’t enough motivation, The 2014 Dinah entertainment line-up features a vast array of artists from varying genres meant to appeal to a diverse crowd.
“We attract a variety of women from different cultures, races, and backgrounds. For us, it’s really important that we cater to everyone and not isolate any one particular group,” Elyafi explains. “The best way we do this is in terms of the entertainment we provide.
From Eve to Tegan and Sara, headlining entertainment undoubtedly meets the interests of all attendees. Evelyn “Champagne” King, Iggy Azalea, and Mary Lambert are also set to take the stage at this lesbian hot spot.
For those who want to start their vacation early, The Dinah begins with a pre-party on Wednesday, April 2 at The Hilton Hotel. On Thursday night, nationally acclaimed comedians Fortune Feimster, Erin Foley, and Gina Yashere take the stage to provide entertainment before the official opening party at Zeldaz Nightclub. Following the opening night festivities, it’s a series of daily pool parties, nightly concerts, and other social events created to bring attendees together.
“Whatever age you are, you’ll find your cup of tea at The Dinah. For people who don’t really want to go all crazy, you have Comedy Night, the Dinah Film Festival, and The Celebrity Poker Tournament,” says Elyafi.
Beyond simply entertaining guests, The Dinah gives back to the community each year. Proceeds from the celebrity poker tournament will go to the Human Rights Campaign, while proceeds from the film festival will go to help rising lesbian directors fund future projects.
Celebrity accessibility at The Dinah is unlike any other event. Club Skirts Dinah Shore Weekend, in association with SHOWTIME, is bringing back two of our favorite characters from The L Word. Featuring the appearance of Leisha Hailey (Alice) and Kate Moennig (Shane), attendees have the opportunity to attend a meet and greet with these actresses and other favorites from The Real L Word at the Saturday Hilton Pool Party event. Vacationers may also participate in the Celebrity Dodgeball Tournament, where they will interact with the likes of Fortune Feimster and other celesbians.
The Original Dinah Shore Weekend is happening April 2-6 in Palm Springs, CA. For more information, visit www.thedinah.com.
