By Mikkel Hyldebrandt
Photo courtesy of Keith Young/XION
For 15 years, Atlanta’s queer nightlife has pulsed well past midnight thanks to an event that has become synonymous with after-hours excellence: XION. Long after the mainstream clubs call last call, this party is just getting started—serving the dancers, night owls, and die-hards who know that the real magic often happens between 3 a.m. and sunrise.
Built on a reputation for high production value, stacked dance floors, and an uncanny ability to book top-tier DJs, XION has carved out a distinct lane in Atlanta’s ever-evolving nightlife ecosystem. Their events aren’t just parties; they’re experiences where music takes priority, the crowd comes ready, and the energy feels intentionally unfiltered. This is nightlife for people who want more than a quick drink and a predictable playlist.
At the center of it all is Keith Young, the steady creative force who has spent more than a decade shaping spaces where queer joy, house and circuit music, and late-night liberation collide. In a city known for its vibrant LGBTQ+ scene, his impact is measured not just in years, but in unforgettable nights that refuse to end early. We got a chance to talk to Keith of the coming weekend’s stacked list of events and parties to celebrate 15 years of XION in Atlanta’s nightlife.
Keith, you are deeply involved in Atlanta’s LGBTQ+ nightlife scene – and have been now for more than a decade. Why don’t you tell us a little bit about your amazing journey?
I have been involved in Atlanta nightlife for about 15 years, when I started the annual Peach Party. Since then, I have produced the annual Big Ol ‘Slice of Atlanta Gay Pride series of events every year. My events company, GA Boy Events, and my team work hard all year around to do different events around the city. I have previously owned and operated Midtown Tavern and Future Atlanta. I have owned and operated the XION events for 12 years.
XION is celebrating 15 years of throwing epic after parties – where and how did it all begin?
XION was created and operated by Fernado Jardim for its first three years. After he relocated out of Atlanta, I purchased XION and have produced all the events ever since. XION is currently held weekly at 2069 Events, located beneath the Heretic on Cheshire Bridge Rd. Other locations over the years include Little Wings (where it started), BJ Roosters, Jungle, Midtown Tavern, Wish Lounge, and Future.
Now, we are approaching 1500 XION parties, which is CRAZY! Over the years, hundreds of different artists, producers, and DJs have entertained Atlanta. From headliners to newcomers, we try to keep the sound open to all tastes of club house music. Some include, Abel, Paulo, Tony Moran, Deanne, Twisted Dee (who did the 1st XION ever), and Cindel.
From the last 15 years, what are some moments that really stand out to you?
There are so many memories that come to mind immediately! EJ Aviance performing at the original XION in Little Wings the day the Mayan calendar predicted the world would end. That was a fun one. Opening 2069 and hosting XION there for the first time after an extensive construction time was also very exciting.Â
For the 15th-anniversary celebration, you have a whole weekend of parties planned, including a high-profile concert performance. Tell us about what the weekend has to offer?
We have Jesus Montanez in 2069 Events on Saturday morning and Abel on Sunday morning. Both events will be 3 – 7am.
Saturday night, as part of the weekend celebration, we will have Chus + Ceballos on their reunion tour with opening DJ Tracy Levine at Knock Music House from 10 pm – 3am.
It sounds like and another EPIC weekend. Where can we get tickets, follow, and get the latest info on the next Xion party?
XION is held weekly (sometimes more) at 2069 Events. Tickets for XION are at www.2069Events.com, and tickets for Chus + Ceballos are at www.GaBoyEvents.com.