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.
