Video:Tips for Attending the Atlanta Pride Festival

Transcript:Tips for Attending the Atlanta Pride Festival

Hello I'm Milo for About.com and today we're talking about Atlanta's Gay Pride Parade.

When is the Atlanta Gay Pride Parade?

Atlanta has one of the most outstanding gay pride events in the gay social season. The festive weekend used to occur in June, which is more traditional connecting to the Stonewall Riots in New York City. However, they have recently moved the celebration to the fall. One plus of this move is that October eleventh is National Coming Out Day.

In addition to the Gay Pride Parade, Atlanta celebrates the empowerment of women with a Dyke March and cheers the Trans with their own exultant pageant. Atlanta Pride has a tradition of bringing in some great acts in addition to an appropriately spectacular parade. Be sure to check out our guide site and AtlantaPride.org for the exact dates, acts, and activities this year.

Here are some pointers for getting the best out of the Atlanta Pride Parade:

Check the parade route in advance. In Atlanta the parade starts at Ralph Mc Gill Boulevard and quickly turns down Peachtree Street, the main thoroughfare of the parade. It then turns on 10th street into Piedmont park where the festival takes place.

Arrive in time. This is no time to be fashionably late. Most gay parades attract many thousands of spectators and you don't want to be stuck at the back wishing you'd worn stilettos.

“Skin" is most definitely “in”. Thankfully, since it is still warm in the early fall in Atlanta you can enjoy your day in the sun wearing, basically, as little as you like. Who says the boys and girls in the parade are the only ones allowed to top-up their tans?

Don't get burnt. Sun damage is so out. Apply high-factor suncream before heading out, and keep a small supply with you for during the day. You might even find a cute guy or girl in need of a dab of protection, and what better ice-breaker!

Re-hydrate often. Parades can often last quite some time and you will get thirsty. Take a plastic sports-drink bottle with you and take regular mouthfuls. There's plenty of time after the parade to check out the vendors and have a stronger drink.

Travel light. Carrying lots of possessions is never a good idea in any crowded place. If you're entering into the spirit of the event and dressing up, you might also find yourself short of secure pocket space. Keep your money somewhere discreet. Use your imagination.

At the festival, be aware of certain rules. For instance, support the pride by buying beverages and food from their vendors rather than bringing your own. Glass bottles are not allowed on the festival grounds nor are pet's unfortunately.

For more excellent and helpful ideas and information on gay pride events, check us out at About dot com.