The Connector
The Connector
Graphic courtesy of Chandler Groce.

Atlanta is geared up for a month of fun celebrating LGBTQ pride! With events happening almost everyday, it gets hard to keep up with everything— especially with homework. This list is designed to highlight the most exciting pride events within Atlanta, especially concentrating on weekend, college-friendly, events.

10/8 – The Annual Trans, Bi+Pan, and WLW Marches

  • Stand up for LGBTQ+ rights and celebrate LGBTQ+ people and identity by marching in the annual trans, bi + pan, and WLW marches. Participants are encouraged to bring signs advocating for LGBTQ+ liberties and rights. The march begins at the Charles Allen Gate and continues down 10th St towards Peachtree Street where it turns right, then right again on 14th St, ending at the 14th St Gate. See detailed map here.
  • Trans March: Meet at the festival grounds at 1:15 and step-off at 1:45.
  • Bi + Pan March: Meet at the festival grounds at 3:00 and step-off at 3:30.
  • WLW March: Meet at the festival grounds at 4:30 and step-off at 5:00.

Visit Atlanta’s essential Gay bars and restaurants

Nourish yourself before a day full of marching, dancing, and celebrating LGBTQ+ identity by visiting one of Atlanta’s incredible brunch restaurants. Then after the parade, enjoy drinks and food from one of the many gay-owned and operated restaurants and bars in the area.

10/8 – Sugar Shack: An All-Queer Dance Party

For those 21 and up, celebrate your pride among others while dancing to local DJs Jsport (ATL/MORPH), Divoli S’vere (ATL/Qween Beat) and performances by JayBella Bankz, SZN ALXNDR, Tuna Fiasco, and TAYLOR ALXNDR. This event is located at 529 Flat Shoals Ave SE Atlanta, GA 30316 on October 8, doors open at 9pm. Proof of vaccination is required.

10/9 – The Atlanta Pride Parade

The Atlanta Pride Parade is the biggest and most well-known event of Atlanta’s Pride Month. The event is open to all who identify as LGBTQ+ as well as allies. No matter how you identify, show up and support your community! The parade will start at Atlanta Civic Center MARTA Station at noon on Sunday and continuing down Peachtree Street, the parade will turn right onto 10th Street and end a block from the Charles Allen Gates to Piedmont Park. Click here for a detailed map.

St. Pete’s Righteously Outrageous Twirling Core in the Atlanta Pride Festival parade, 2009. Image courtesy of Wikipedia Commons.

10/12 – Buzz Check: A Queer AF Open Mic

Open for all ages, this open mic event is a sober meetup and pride celebration. Featuring delicious non-alcoholic drinks provided by ALT Bar and Finca to Filter, this night will be one to remember. This event is hosted by the fabulous TAYLOR ALXNDR.

Buzz Check: A Queer AF Open Mic poster. Image courtesy of Southern Pride Queer Pride.

10/15 – Cinnequeer Film Night 

Hosted by Southern Fried Queer Pride, join fellow moviegoers for an outdoor movie screening of queer films. Food and drink vendors will be available, but you are encouraged to bring your own chairs and blankets. Doors open at 7pm and tickets are $7-$20 on a sliding scale basis, available here. This event is located in the parking lot of Eyedrum (515 Ralph David Abernathy Blvd, Atlanta, GA 30312).

10/16 – Atlanta LGBTQ+ Wedding Expo

Whether you’re engaged or happily single, everyone can enjoy thinking of their dream wedding. Stroll through the halls of Hilton Atlanta Northeast and explore LGBTQ+ friendly wedding planners, florists, jewelers and all aspects of your big day.

10/26 – Out Down South Exhibition Opening

Hosted at the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, visit the new outdoor exhibit to view portraits and voices of LGBTQ Atlantans and the impact they’ve made on the city. The opening show is from 7-9 p.m., more information is available via the NCCHR website.

Poster for the Out Down South Exhibit Opening. Courtesy of The National Center for Civil and Human Rights.