Atlanta, September 27, 2025
News Summary
Atlanta has been recognized by GayTravel.com as the ‘Gay Capital of the South,’ reflecting the city’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity for LGBTQ travelers. The city will host the 2025 Atlanta Pride Festival and Parade, attracting over 300,000 visitors, featuring various performances and a theme of ‘Rooted in Resistance.’ The Rainbow Crosswalk and numerous LGBTQ organizations further contribute to the vibrant scene. Despite ongoing construction, transportation will remain unaffected for this significant event.
Atlanta has been recognized by GayTravel.com as the “Gay Capital of the South.” This distinction highlights the city’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity for LGBTQ travelers and residents alike. Atlanta’s efforts to support this community have led to its designation as a global partner for the International Gay and Lesbian Travel Association (IGLTA).
Looking ahead, the city will host the 2025 Atlanta Pride Festival and Parade on October 11 and 12, taking place in the vibrant setting of Piedmont Park. Established in 1970, this festival is one of the oldest and largest LGBTQ celebrations in the nation, attracting over 300,000 visitors each year. Notably, the Pride Festival coincides with National Coming Out Day on October 11 and will carry the theme “Rooted in Resistance.”
The festival weekend is set to be lively with a variety of performances, events, and parades. The main parade will commence at noon on October 12, complemented by additional parades such as the Bi and Pan, Dyke, and Trans marches. Piedmont Park serves as the central hub for Atlanta Pride activities, solidifying its status as a focal point for LGBTQ+ events and outdoor enjoyment.
One of the city’s meaningful features is the Rainbow Crosswalk, a permanent attraction at the intersection of 10th St. and Piedmont Ave. This intersection is also close to popular gay bars, including Bulldogs, X Midtown, and Blake’s On The Park, located near Piedmont Park. Nearby, Ansley Square hosts reputable venues like Atlanta Eagle, Felix’s, Oscar’s Bar, and Mixx Atlanta, contributing to a vibrant nightlife and entertainment scene for the LGBTQ community.
In addition to celebrations, Atlanta Pride supports vital LGBTQ organizations such as the Out Front Theatre and the Atlanta Gay Men’s Chorus. Throughout the year, the city hosts other notable events including Black Gay Pride and Out on Film. For convenient access to these locations, the MARTA (Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority) provides efficient transportation with stations like Arts Center and Midtown nearby.
An ongoing sewer repair project in Midtown may affect transportation; however, it has been confirmed that it will not impact the Pride parade route. This year’s festival has also announced featured performers, including Bob the Drag Queen and 2AM Ricky, ensuring a diverse range of entertainment options across two stages highlighting live music, drag performances, and more.
FAQ
What is Atlanta recognized as by GayTravel.com?
Atlanta has been recognized by GayTravel.com as the “Gay Capital of the South.”
What event will the city host in October 2025?
The 2025 Atlanta Pride Festival and Parade is scheduled for October 11 and 12, occurring in Piedmont Park.
When did the Atlanta Pride Festival begin?
The festival started in 1970 and welcomes more than 300,000 visitors.
What is the 2025 Pride theme?
This year’s Pride theme is “Rooted in Resistance.”
What kind of events can attendees expect during the festival?
The festival weekend includes performances, events, and parades including the main parade kicking off at noon on October 12, along with additional parades such as the Bi and Pan, Dyke, and Trans marches.
Where will the Pride festival take place?
Piedmont Park is considered the headquarters for Atlanta Pride, a central location for LGBTQ+ events.
What is significant about the Rainbow Crosswalk?
The Rainbow Crosswalk is a permanent attraction in Midtown, located at the intersection of 10th St. and Piedmont Ave.
What kind of organizations does Atlanta Pride feature?
Atlanta Pride also features important LGBTQ organizations, such as Out Front Theatre and Atlanta Gay Men’s Chorus.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Designation | Gay Capital of the South |
| Festival Dates | October 11 and 12, 2025 |
| Location | Piedmont Park |
| Visitors | Over 300,000 |
| Key Theme | Rooted in Resistance |
| Main Parade Date | October 12, 2025, at noon |
| Notable Attractions | Rainbow Crosswalk, Gay Bars |
| Transportation | MARTA transit access |
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Additional Resources
- Discover Atlanta: Atlanta Pride Survival Guide
- Atlanta News First: Atlanta Pride Assures Festivalgoers
- Rough Draft Atlanta: Atlanta Pride 2025 Entertainment
- 11Alive: Why is Atlanta Pride in October?
- The Infatuation: Atlanta Pride Festival Black Pride Events
- Wikipedia: Atlanta Pride
- Google Search: Atlanta Pride
- Google Scholar: Atlanta Pride
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Pride Events
- Google News: Atlanta Pride
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.
