Mariah Hanson, the visionary founder and producer of The Dinah—the world’s largest and longest-running music festival for queer women, nonbinary folks, and allies—has announced that the 2025 edition of the iconic event will be her final production. After 34 groundbreaking years, Hanson will step away from the helm of a cultural phenomenon that has defined LGBTQ+ visibility and celebration for more than three decades.
Set for September 24–28, 2025, at the historic Riviera Resort in Palm Springs, The Dinah’s Grand Finale promises a powerful send-off filled with unforgettable performances, queer legacy tributes, and a spirit of community that has always defined the event. Hanson is actively working to ensure the legacy lives on, seeking the right successor to carry the torch forward and continue what she calls “a movement—not just a party.”
“After 34 unforgettable years, I’m stepping away from producing this world-famous celebration of queer joy, freedom, and connection,” says Hanson. “It’s been the honor of a lifetime to help create space where our community could be bold, wild, and unapologetically ourselves.”
Founded in 1991, The Dinah evolved from a grassroots gathering into a five-day destination festival that has hosted early performances by global icons like Lady Gaga, Lizzo, Katy Perry, and Bebe Rexha. Hanson’s gift for discovering emerging talent turned The Dinah stage into a launchpad for the next generation of pop royalty, making her a tastemaker as much as a trailblazer.
Among the headline moments of this year’s finale is the return of The L Word stars Kate Moennig and Leisha Hailey, who will reunite with fans at Saturday’s iconic pool party for a book signing and photo ops. Their book, So Gay for You, will be available in limited quantities exclusively at the event. The pair will also walk the red carpet and join the Saturday night festivities—bringing the festival’s legendary mix of queer pop culture and personal connection full circle.
And that’s just the beginning. With a full entertainment lineup set to drop in mid-June, Hanson’s final Dinah promises to be a historic, star-studded farewell.
“This final Dinah is my personal love letter to the community,” says Hanson. “A celebration that reflects the boldness, beauty, and heart that have always defined who we are.”
As Hanson prepares to take her final bow, the legacy of The Dinah remains cemented in queer history—as a vibrant, inclusive space where generations have come to dance, connect, and feel fully seen.
Tickets and event details are available now at www.thedinah.com.