Edited by Mikkel Hyldebrandt
Dive Into Joy & Generosity
There’s something magical about an Atlanta summer afternoon spent by the pool. The sun is shining, the DJs are spinning, cocktails are flowing, and hundreds of friends—old and new—are gathering for one of the city’s most beloved traditions: the Joining Hearts Pool Party at Piedmont Park.
But Joining Hearts has always been about more than great music, incredible outfits (or the lack thereof), and the perfect tan. Every splash, every dance move, and every ticket purchased helps support local organizations serving people living with HIV/AIDS. For nearly four decades, Joining Hearts has proven that our community knows how to celebrate with purpose. The party is the fundraiser.
That combination of joy and generosity is what makes this event so special. It’s one of the few places where giving back and letting loose happen at exactly the same time. So whether you’re a seasoned Joining Hearts veteran or making your debut, here’s how to make this year’s pool party your best one yet.
Remember Why You’re There
Yes, you’re there to dance.
Yes, you’re there to cool off.
Yes, you’re hoping to bump into friends—or maybe make a few new ones.
But you’re also helping ensure vital HIV/AIDS organizations can continue providing care, prevention, education, and support throughout metro Atlanta. Every ticket purchased represents another investment in our community.
That sense of purpose gives Joining Hearts an energy that feels different from your average summer party. People aren’t just showing up—they’re showing up for each other.
Prep Like a Pro
A little preparation goes a long way toward making the day stress-free:
✔️ Stay hydrated before you even arrive – and keep the hydration going while you’re there.
✔️ Apply sunscreen and bring extra for reapplication.
✔️ Pack sun essentials like sunglasses, a hat, and a small towel.
✔️ Bring a portable phone charger.
✔️ Wear comfortable sandals or shoes you can dance in – or won’t mind getting wet.
✔️ Have your ticket and ID ready.
✔️ Make sure you eat a decent meal either there or beforehand if you plan on enjoying cocktails.
✔️ Pack light. You’ll thank yourself later.
The goal is simple: spend less time worrying about logistics and more time enjoying the music and the people around you.
Forget the “Perfect Pool Body”
Let’s get one thing out of the way. Nobody actually has the perfect pool body.
Social media has convinced many of us that we need six-pack abs, flawless skin, and impossible proportions before we’re “ready” to take our shirts off.
Joining Hearts is refreshingly different. You’ll see every body type imaginable. Tall, short, muscular, slim, hairy, smooth, tattooed, young, older, and everything in between. That’s part of what makes the event beautiful.
Confidence isn’t about looking like the fitness influencer on your Instagram feed. Confidence is walking in, smiling, saying hello, and remembering that the people who matter are paying far more attention to your energy than your waistline.
And if you’re feeling nervous? You’re definitely not alone. Chances are, plenty of the people around you had the exact same thoughts before walking through the gate.
Dress to Feel Like Yourself
Joining Hearts is a place where personality shines. Some guests go classic swimwear. Others embrace colorful prints, mesh tops, matching sets, statement sunglasses, bold hats, jewelry, or playful accessories.
The best look is the one that feels authentic. This isn’t a fashion competition. It’s a celebration of individuality.
Put the Phone Away (Sometimes)
Yes, grab the group selfie. Capture that sunset. Take a photo of your fabulous cocktail. And get the video of the incredible fireworks display.
But don’t spend the entire afternoon and evening watching the party through your screen. Some of the best Joining Hearts memories happen between the photos: spontaneous conversations, dancing with strangers who become friends, laughing in the pool, or hearing your favorite anthem drop at exactly the right moment. Those moments can’t always be captured—but they’re often the ones you’ll remember longest.
Meet New People
One of Joining Hearts’ greatest strengths is how welcoming it can be. If someone compliments your swimsuit, keep the conversation going. If another group invites you into their dance circle, say yes. If someone is standing alone looking a little unsure, introduce yourself.
Atlanta’s LGBTQ+ community has always been built through connection, and pool parties are surprisingly good places to make it happen. Not every conversation needs to lead to romance. Sometimes the best thing you bring home is a new friendship.
Pace Yourself
The afternoon leading into the evening is a marathon, not a sprint. Alternate cocktails with water.Take breaks from the sun. Find some shade when you need it. Check in with your friends—and yourself.
Feeling your best throughout the day means you’ll still have plenty of energy left for whatever adventures the evening brings.
Bring Good Energy
The most attractive thing at Joining Hearts isn’t a swimsuit. It’s kindness. Compliment someone’s outfit. Respect personal space. Celebrate everyone’s confidence. Help create the welcoming atmosphere that makes this event one of Atlanta’s favorite LGBTQ+ traditions year after year.
When everyone contributes good energy, everybody has a better time.
Celebrate With Purpose
By the end of the evening, your sunscreen may have worn off, your feet may be tired, and you’ll probably have at least one new favorite remix stuck in your head. More importantly, you’ll have spent the day celebrating a community that has always understood the power of showing up for one another.
Joining Hearts reminds us that giving back doesn’t have to be solemn. Sometimes it looks like dancing under the Georgia sun, laughing with friends in the pool, and knowing that your good time is helping someone else have a better tomorrow.
Now grab your towel, call your friends, and don’t forget the sunscreen. We’ll see you poolside.
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Grab your tickets for the Joining Hearts Main Event SCORE with music by the Perry Twins on July 25 at joininghearts.org.