Typically, a 20th anniversary means gifts of fine china. But who needs a gravy boat anyway? Forget the china and celebrate this anniversary party the best way possible — with scantily clad men.

Every spring, for the past two decades, thousands of guys have been flocking to Palm Springs for the biggest gay party around.

The festivities are now internationally known and draw between 15,000 and 20,000 revelers each year.

This bacchanal of poolside sun and all-night fun was created by Jeffrey Sanker, a party promoter for clubs in New York City.

He first visited the desert in the earliest incarnation of the Dinah Shore lesbian parties.

“I feel in love with Palm Springs,” he said. “I decided to do what the girls were doing, getting people out of the nightclubs and into the beautiful desert.”

This year’s party boasts a performance by Lady Gaga, who has two hit singles with “Just Dance” and “Poker Face.” There’s also a full slate of DJs from all over the globe, including Andy Bell from British pop duo Erasure.

But of course, the main attraction will be the men — dancing, frolicking, swimming and looking fine.

“We build relationships here. Some of my friends have met their husbands or met their best friends at White Party,” Sanker said. “It’s kind of been the backbone of the gay community for the last 20 years.”

White Party Weekend

When:@ Friday-Sunday

Where:@ Wyndham Palm Springs, 888 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs

Cost:@ Ranges from $25 for an individual pool party to $445 for the VIP, seven-party package. Tickets can be purchased at the door of events.
Information:@ www.jeffreysanker.com

How to party all night long

@First-timer? White Party creator Jeffrey Sanker gave us his advice for enjoying this weekend’s festivities.

1. Drink a lot of water@ — and not only because this is a desert. The dance floors can get incredibly hot and sweaty. It’s easy to get dehydrated.

2. Wear white on Saturday.

3. Forget all your troubles and dance your cares away@ — Even in difficult economic times, this is a celebration. Realize that life can go on, so just dance, have fun and enjoy the camaraderie with your friends.