Photo backdrops featured neon signage.Photo: Jack Parada
ATLANTA—This year, the Atlanta Pride Committee canceled its large in-person events scheduled for Oct. 9 and 10—including the festival in Piedmont Park and its popular parade—for the second year in a row due to increasing COVID-19 rates.
However, organizers decided to reimagine the opening party. Over 3,000 guests attended the neon-themed event on Oct. 8 at the Georgia Aquarium, which has been the location of the official kick-off party for the Atlanta Pride weekend for more than 10 years. “Since the Atlanta Pride Festival and Parade were canceled, we wanted to remain focused on creating a safe and memorable event for all that attended and have attended this signature event for many years,” explained Cathy Taylor, president of sales for YES Event Designs, which handled the event decor and design.
Titled “Out Night 2.0 – Let Your Pride Glow!,” the party featured plenty of illuminating decor pieces including custom stage fronts, photo backdrops with neon signage and custom clear high-boy tables decorated with reflective glow tubes, while custom video mapping was projected on the walls. Plus, DJs were scattered throughout the venue.
One of the standout features was a revolving stage that showcased the dancers from HBO show Legendary, including performers from ballroom group House of Balenciaga.
As for COVID-19 protocols, organizers used advanced ticketing to limit ticket sales in order to help reduce capacity, along with cashless bars.
VENDORS
Catering: Wolfgang Puck Catering
Dancers: House of Balenciaga
Event Decor & Design: YES Event Designs
Lighting Design: Active Production
Photography: Jack Parada Photography
Venue: Georgia Aquarium
See more from inside the official kick-off party.
