Edited by Mikkel Hyldebrandt
Photos: Russ Youngblood
Since 1987, the all-volunteer nonprofit Joining Hearts has stood at the epicenter of Atlanta’s LGBTQ+ fundraising efforts, channeling the power of joy into impactful philanthropy. Dedicated to raising awareness and funds for HIV/AIDS prevention, care, and housing assistance, their efforts have amassed over $3 million in donations to local services. These organizations—AID Atlanta, Positive Impact, and Lost and Found Youth—rely on these funds to provide vital services ranging from healthcare and nutrition to stable housing and youth development.
Big Event, Bigger Impact
Joining Hearts’ premier fundraiser, Joining Hearts Weekend, is more than a party—it’s a movement. In 2024 alone, the event contributed a remarkable $160,000 to HIV/AIDS causes: $100,000 to AID Atlanta and $30,000 each to Positive Impact and Lost and Found Youth. As infections in Atlanta climb back to levels unseen since the 1980s, this momentum couldn’t come at a more critical time.
The 2025 Weekend: Safari Edition
Returning July 25–27, 2025, the 38th Annual Joining Hearts Weekend™ is themed Safari and features six epic parties designed to attract a diverse crowd of LGBTQ+ adults and allies.
Friday, July 25
- Opening Party at Heretic Atlanta, powered by NYC legend DJ Corey Craig—a kick-off you won’t forget.
Saturday, July 26
- Morning Rave: Xion with Tony Moran at 2069, serving early-energy beats.
- Main Pool Party “Safari”: This is the centerpiece—held at the Piedmont Park Greystone Pool House, DJs Erik Vilar (Brazil) and Mike Pope spin on Saturday evening. Doors open from 6–11 PM, with pool access starting at 7:15 PM, supported by complimentary drinks and food.
- Saturday Night Tsunami: Late-night spin from DJ Alex Acosta at Masquerade.
- Late-Night Xion Encore: Another round with DJ GSP at 2069.
Sunday, July 27
- Wild Tea Dance closes the weekend at MSR with DJ Joe Pacheco—evening vibes to unwind and reflect.
Your Admission to All the Fun
- General Admission (ages 21+ only): Access to all shows and the pool party. New for 2025, the Weekend Pass offers General Admission to all six parties—an over $400 value now bundled into one ticket. Whether you’re dipping into the pool party or dancing until dawn, it’s an invitation to party with purpose.
- VIP & Ultra VIP upgrades: These include early entry (5 PM), pool-level access, upgraded food & drinks, private cabanas, personal bartenders, and other high-end perks.
- Benefit with them: A portion of ticket sales supports other events throughout the year—thanks to patron donations that help fund operations and maximize donations to Atlanta-area HIV/AIDS nonprofits.
Get your tickets and passes at joininghearts.org.
Why It Matters—Now More Than Ever
Joining Hearts first lit up Atlanta’s queer nightlife amidst the darkest days of the AIDS crisis in the late 1980s. Though medical advancements have improved outcomes, new infections are surging, and crucial services are being stretched thin. By merging the power of celebration with fundraising, Joining Hearts provides essential support to follow-up care, meal delivery, mental health services, transportation, and housing for those affected.
How You Can Get Involved
- Attend: Tickets and Weekend Passes are available now—don’t miss the chance to make memories while making a difference.
- Volunteer: Every event relies on dedicated hands. Joining the volunteer team starts with signing up online and dedicating your time to support the event. Without volunteers, Joining Hearts simply wouldn’t be able to pull off an event of this magnitude.
- Sponsor or Donate: From local businesses to individual patrons, Joining Hearts welcomes partnerships that help burnish Atlanta’s reputation as a leading HIV/AIDS response hub.
The Takeaway
Joining Hearts doesn’t just host parties—they spark a wave of activism across the LGBTQ+ community. Joining Hearts Weekend™ is your chance to live loud, love hard, and fight smarter. When the music catches your breath and fireworks light the sky, remember this: every ticket, every drink, every dance helps someone access the care and housing they need—and schools them in how love and pride can shape a better world. Be there. Be proud. Be part of the legacy.