Atlanta Pride Parade: 2025 In-Depth Guide

Each October, Midtown Atlanta explodes in color as the Atlanta Pride Parade sweeps up Peachtree Street and into Piedmont Park. Timed around National Coming Out Day, the march anchors the two-day Atlanta Pride Festival, drawing more than 100,000 revelers eager to celebrate love, diversity, and Southern hospitality. In 2025, the festival celebrates its 55th year with the theme “Rooted in Resistance”, highlighting both progress and ongoing advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights.

Midtown Magic: Where the Rainbow Rolls

Peachtree turns technicolor as Atlanta’s skyline sets the stage for a celebration of love. The parade steps off from the Civic Center MARTA Station at 12:00 p.m. on Sunday, October 12, 2025, then glides north on Peachtree Street before turning onto 10th Street and finishing a block from the Charles Allen Gate of iconic Piedmont Park.

Expect rainbow-wrapped floats, local organizations, and community groups framed by Midtown’s skyline and leafy park views—a quintessential Atlanta experience.

October Colors: Parade Dates & Timetable

Two dazzling days. One powerful parade. All the pride.

• Festival Dates: Saturday, October 11 – Sunday, October 12, 2025
• Parade Date: Sunday, October 12, 2025
• Parade Start Time: 12:00 p.m. (noon)
• Festival Hours: Gates open at 10:00 a.m. daily
• Location: Piedmont Park, Midtown Atlanta

Saturday, October 11 Highlights:

• Trans March – 1:45 p.m.
• Bi & Pan March – 3:30 p.m.
• Dyke March – 5:00 p.m.
• Live concerts, dance parties, and 200+ vendors in the Pride Marketplace

Sunday, October 12 Highlights:

• Atlanta Pride Parade – 12:00 p.m.
• Main Stage Performances
• Starlight Cabaret – the largest outdoor drag show in the country

Who Should Wave? Everyone!

From strollers to stilettos, Pride is for anyone who believes in equality.

From strollers to stilettos, Pride is for anyone who believes in equality. Families, allies, students, and seasoned activists are all welcome. Midtown’s breezy sidewalks offer great space for strollers, and DJ trucks will keep music lovers moving.

Many attendees turn the weekend into a mini-vacation, pairing Pride festivities with visits to local attractions like the Georgia Aquarium or College Football Hall of Fame.

Why It Shines Brighter Than a Disco Ball

Drag shows, DJ trucks, and 350,000 strong—Atlanta Pride lights up the Southeast.

Beyond glitter and glam, Atlanta Pride honors its roots and mission for visibility. Held during National Coming Out Day weekend, the event celebrates LGBTQ+ identity while advocating for ongoing equality in the Southeast. Highlights include:

• Grand Marshals who champion LGBTQ+ rights
• Vibrant community marches for Trans, Bi & Pan, and Dyke groups
• Concerts featuring regional and national performers
• Starlight Cabaret: America’s largest outdoor drag show
• Over 200 vendors and organizations in the Pride Marketplace
• Free admission for all (donations welcome)

Atlanta Pride is the Southeast’s largest free LGBTQ+ pride celebration, attracting over 350,000 attendees and serving as a beacon of inclusion and joy.

Park & Pride: Stress-Free Arrival Tips

Plan your route, avoid the gridlock, and arrive parade-ready.

• Public Transit: Use MARTA! Ride to Civic Center Station for parade start, or Midtown/Arts Center Stations for the festival. All are within a 15-minute walk.
• Parking:
  • SAGE Parking Deck (inside Piedmont Park): Hourly rates around $6–$20, credit/debit only
  • Midtown Garages (Colony Square, 53 14th St.): Weekend rates around $10–$18
• Apps: Use SpotAngels or similar parking apps to reserve a spot in advance
• Accessibility: Atlanta Pride provides accessible entrances, facilities, and dedicated inclusion volunteers

Parade Ready and Planning Made Easy

Why stop at the confetti? Tripster helps you turn parade day into a full Atlanta getaway with bundled hotel stays and top attractions—like the Georgia Aquarium, Zoo Atlanta, and more—all steps from the Midtown festivities.

With over 20 years of experience, exclusive discounts, and flexible vacation packages, Tripster takes care of the logistics so you can focus on waving your flag, making memories, and soaking up Atlanta’s vibrant fall energy.