As summer fades into fall, Atlanta—long hailed as the queer capital of the South—prepares to host the largest celebration of Black LGBTQIA+ pride in the nation. From August 28 to September 3, the city comes alive for Atlanta Black Pride Weekend: Labor Day Rock, a powerful fusion of joy, resilience, culture, and advocacy.
Why Black Gay Pride Matters
Atlanta Black Pride isn’t just another Pride celebration—it’s a space for belonging, empowerment, and visibility for Black LGBTQIA+ people, rooted in community-led experiences that address unique intersections of race, sexuality, health, and social justice.
This festival champions empowerment through education, cultural expression, and unity. It drives important conversations, combats systemic disparities, and highlights Black queer brilliance through programming like workshops, youth events, health initiatives, and awards ceremonies that uplift activists, artists, and everyday heroes.
The Power Behind the Celebration
Atlanta Black Pride has evolved into a vital movement, drawing thousands of attendees, generating lots of business and revenue for Metro Atlanta, and serving as a cornerstone for Black queer visibility in the U.S. It’s not just a festival—it’s a movement that champions health, wellness, justice, and connection for Black LGBTQIA+ people—and invites allies to show up with love, solidarity, and intention.
Signature Events to Watch
Here are a few not-to-be-missed highlights of the weekend:
Influencers Gala – “Black Excellence Soiree”
Kick off Pride weekend on Friday, August 29 (6 pm–10 pm) at the Host Hotel (Starling by Hilton). A glamorous “Dress to Impress” fundraiser celebrating trailblazers across arts, healthcare, youth initiatives, and activism. Expect a fashion show, live performances, recognition awards, and an elegant cocktail hour.
LGBTQ+ Youth Workshops & Men’s Empowerment Brunch
Taking place Friday and Saturday, the youth workshops offer safe, enriching spaces to learn, express, and build resilience. Meanwhile, the Men’s Empowerment Brunch on Saturday, August 30 encourages and educates Black men, fostering healing and empowerment within community circles. Both events are hosted at the Starling Hotel.
Pure Heat Community Festival
On Sunday, August 31, the celebration hits Piedmont Park (12 pm–8 pm). Now in its 12th year, this beloved festival offers live performances, celebrity meet-and-greets, food, shopping, games, and community booths—all in one electrifying day. Past lineups have featured artists like Tamar Braxton and Saucy Santana, alongside dynamic youth programming and vibrant community activation. No headliner has been announced yet, but you can see the updated lineup at pureheatcommunityfestival.com.
Stay Informed & Get Involved
Want the full scoop? Check out the official sites for the complete lineup, party passes, VIP experiences, workshops, volunteer opportunities, and more: the websites features everything from Pride Pool Parties to Vendor Markets to Brunch & Lunch events.
atlantaprideweekend.com
atlantablackprideldr.com
atlantablackpride.org
This Labor Day weekend, Atlanta becomes a beacon of Black LGBTQIA+ pride—not just through festive gatherings but as a collective affirmation of identity, history, and future. From powerful youth workshops and empowering brunches to dazzling galas and the lively Pure Heat Festival, every moment pulses with purpose.
Pride isn’t just parade—it’s presence.