The Atlanta Pride Committee today announced that they are currently planning to hold an in-person event over the festival dates in October.
"At this time, the City of Atlanta, Office of Special Events, is accepting applications for only Class E Events. We are hopeful this means that our event class, Class A, is in queue and they will begin accepting those applications over the next few months." said Jamie Fergerson, executive director, Atlanta Pride Committee. "We are planning accordingly and as a result, we will open both the vendor market and parade for RESERVATIONS next week."
"A market or parade reservation and deposit will hold your place in line and ensure that you can participate once we receive approval. Once that approval for our festival permit is processed and confirmed by the city, we will then reach out to everyone with a reservation to make their final payment so their participation in the 2021 festival is confirmed."
The Atlanta Pride Committee is working closely with the city along with public health officials to plan a COVID safe festival. Current guidelines include social distancing and mask mandates for everyone on festival grounds; hand washing stations to be placed throughout the park for the duration of the festival; along with the addition of a COVID compliance officer added to the event staff. APC will update health and safety plans as guidance changes to remain in compliance with city ordinances and CDC guidelines.
The goal of APC is to serve its community and come together to celebrate and continue its work along with its sponsors and partners. It is imperative that in 2021, this be done according to CDC guidelines and with public health as its greatest concern.
"The last year has certainly been challenging," said Fergerson. "However, we are confident that when allowed by the city, we will be ready to go back into Piedmont Park and create a safe and healthy environment for the 2021 festival. Of course, if that does not happen, we will be ready to return to virtual programming - but we know that our community is looking forward to an in-person event. As long as it is safe to do so, this is our plan."
More detailed information about the festival will be announced as it is available. Market and Parade reservations will be announced via APC newsletter and will be available beginning on April 19. To sign up for the APC newsletter, click below or email [email protected] .
Media Contact: Shelia Merritt | Q&A Events | E: [email protected] | P: 404.762.5665 ext. 302