Atlanta, GA, August 25, 2025
News Summary
October will be a vibrant month for Atlanta, featuring a variety of festivals, events, and cultural exhibits. Highlights include the Atlanta Pride celebration, which draws over 100,000 attendees, and numerous family-friendly activities such as Boo at the Zoo. The city also showcases artistic talents with a new exhibit honoring a beloved fashion icon, ensuring that there’s something for everyone this fall. Join the festivities and enjoy the rich culture that Atlanta has to offer.
Atlanta is gearing up for an exciting October with a diverse lineup of festivals, exhibits, and events that showcase the city’s vibrant culture and community spirit. The month will feature significant occasions like the Atlanta Pride, renowned fashion shows, family-friendly activities, and celebrations that cater to various interests.
The highlight of October is the Atlanta Pride celebration, scheduled for October 11 and 12, making it the largest LGBTQ+ event in the South. With over 100,000 attendees expected, Atlanta Pride will include performances from renowned artists such as Bob the Drag Queen and 2 AM Ricky. The festival will also host three community marches, including the Annual Trans March, the Annual Bi & Pan March, and the Annual Dyke March, culminating in an official parade at noon on Sunday, October 12.
In addition to Atlanta Pride, the city will host several other notable events. On October 5, the Westside Stride event will take place along Howell Mill Road, featuring live music, a vendor market, and children’s activities. Simultaneously, Party on the PATH at Eclipse di Luna in Buckhead will offer music and a silent auction to support local charities.
The Candler Park Fall Festival is also set for October 4 and 5, expected to draw over 20,000 attendees. The festival will include a 5k race and various local vendors. Another vital event is Oye Fest, Atlanta’s Latin arts and music festival, taking place at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on October 4.
For art and culture enthusiasts, a new exhibit honoring the legendary fashion icon André Leon Talley will be showcased at the SCAD FASH Museum of Fashion + Film from October 15 through March 1. Also, the popular DreamHack gaming lifestyle festival will take place from October 31 through November 2 at the Georgia World Congress Center.
Families can enjoy the Boo at the Zoo event during the last two weekends of October, offering trick-or-treat opportunities and other kid-friendly activities. The Little 5’s Halloween Festival & Parade will also take place during the weekend of October 18 and 19, featuring a festive parade on October 19.
October marks an essential month for sports in Atlanta, with the return of the NBA and college football. The Atlanta Hawks and Atlanta Falcons are scheduled to play home games, adding excitement to the city’s vibrant autumn atmosphere.
The Atlanta Pride Committee moved the event to October to comply with park regulations due to drought conditions, coinciding with National Coming Out Day on October 11. This change aims to ensure a safer and more inclusive environment for attendees.
Key October Events in Atlanta
- Atlanta Pride: October 11-12
- Westside Stride: October 5
- Party on the PATH: October 5
- Candler Park Fall Festival: October 4-5
- Oye Fest: October 4
- André Leon Talley Exhibit: October 15 – March 1
- DreamHack: October 31 – November 2
- Little 5’s Halloween Festival & Parade: October 18-19
- Boo at the Zoo: Last two weekends of October
Conclusion
Atlanta’s October events offer a rich tapestry of activities celebrating diversity, creativity, and community engagement. Residents and visitors alike can look forward to participating in a month filled with fun, insight, and connection.
FAQ
What is the Atlanta Pride event?
Atlanta Pride is the largest LGBTQ+ festival in the South, featuring performances, community marches, and a parade.
When does the Atlanta Pride take place?
It is scheduled for October 11 and 12, with the official parade on October 12 at noon.
What other festivals are happening in Atlanta in October?
Other festivals include the Candler Park Fall Festival, Oye Fest, and the Little 5’s Halloween Festival & Parade.
Will there be events for families?
Yes, events like Boo at the Zoo will offer trick-or-treating and activities designed for children.
What sports events are happening in October?
The NBA and college football seasons will start, with home games for the Atlanta Hawks and Falcons scheduled throughout the month.
Event Summary Chart
| Event | Date | Expected Attendance |
|---|---|---|
| Atlanta Pride | October 11-12 | 100,000+ |
| Westside Stride | October 5 | Not specified |
| Party on the PATH | October 5 | Not specified |
| Candler Park Fall Festival | October 4-5 | 20,000+ |
| Oye Fest | October 4 | Not specified |
| André Leon Talley Exhibit | October 15 – March 1 | Not specified |
| DreamHack | October 31 – November 2 | Not specified |
| Little 5’s Halloween Festival & Parade | October 18-19 | Not specified |
| Boo at the Zoo | Last two weekends of October | Not specified |
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Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets Gear Up for Season Opener
Metro Atlanta Farmers Markets Thrive This Summer
Metro Atlanta Hosts Back-to-School Events Amid Heat Wave
Tomorrowland Festival Triumphs After Main Stage Fire
Additional Resources
- Rough Draft Atlanta: Atlanta Pride 2025 Entertainment
- Fox 5 Atlanta: Atlanta Black Gay Pride Set to Launch
- Discover Atlanta: Cool Things to Do in October in Atlanta
- AJC: Why is Atlanta Pride in October?
- Wikipedia: Atlanta
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
