San Francisco’s own “King of Strings,” Kippy Marks, returns to Palm Springs Pride as a featured performer for the landmark 40th anniversary celebration, “Be Included.” This year marks his ninth appearance at the festival, a testament to the enduring bond between Kippy and the Pride community. Each time he steps onto the stage, his violin becomes more than an instrument — it becomes a voice for joy, resilience, and radical inclusion. Kippy’s artistry is rooted in the belief that music is a universal language of love. His performances are not only dazzling displays of technical mastery but also heartfelt invitations to connect. Audiences at Palm Springs Pride have come to expect not just a concert, but a shared experience — one where barriers dissolve and everyone feels embraced. That spirit of belonging is perfectly aligned with the 40th anniversary theme, reminding us that inclusion
is not a slogan but a practice, lived out in moments of celebration and community. Beyond the stage, Kippy has cultivated a global following through his innovative Morning Wood series. What began as a playful daily ritual has blossomed into a worldwide gathering space where people tune in to start their day with music, mindfulness, and connection. Morning Wood is more than entertainment; it is a practice of love, a reminder that joy can be simple, accessible, and shared across borders. Participants from around the globe join in, embodying the idea that those who practice love easily are already part of a larger family. In this way, Kippy extends the Pride ethos beyond the festival grounds, creating a digital community that celebrates diversity and unity every morning. As Palm Springs Pride celebrates four decades of visibility, activism, and inclusion, Kippy Marks stands as a living symbol of what it means to be
included. His violin sings for those who have fought, those who continue to struggle, and those who simply want to dance in the light of love. With each note, he reminds us that inclusion is not passive — it is active, vibrant, and necessary. His ninth performance at Palm Springs Pride is not just a return; it is a renewal of his commitment to the community and to the world. Kippy Marks, the King of Strings, invites us once again to listen, to feel, and to be included.