The Atlanta Pride Festival (or, Atlanta Pride) takes place in October. It has been going on since 1971, making it one of the longest running pride festivals in the country! This year Atlanta Pride will be held on October 14 and 15 (it used to be held in June, but in 2008 had to move to October because of drought conditions (Georgia heat, another Georgia icon??), and stayed in October for its favorable fall weather, and to celebrate National Coming Out Day, which will be October 11 this year). Not only will there be a fabulous parade, but there are always educational events, concerts, and cultural exhibits. Georgia offers many wonderful festivals throughout the year, but we’re listing Atlanta Pride as iconic because it is one of the oldest and largest celebrations of LGBTQ pride in the country, and showcases Georgia’s inclusion and diversity.  

“We should indeed keep calm in the face of difference, and live our lives in a state of inclusion and wonder at the diversity of humanity.” -George Takei