Insider’s Guide to PrideFest 2025: From Athens, With Pride

Saturday, June 7, 2025 |  3:00–10:00 PM |  Downtown Athens
Presented by Athens Pride and Queer Collective (APQC)

Mark your calendars—PrideFest 2025 is bringing the love, color, and celebration to the streets of Downtown Athens! This year’s festival is combining the parade and community celebration into one monumental day, and you won’t want to miss a moment of it. Last year's parade literally brought me to tears of joy, so grab your tissues and your sunscreen and join in the celebration!

But don't just take my word for it! I chatted with the fabulous drag queen Jacqueline Daniels to get the inside scoop on Pride in Athens!

Jacqueline Daniels Drag Queen in a green dress with long sleeves.

 

Drag Queen's take: 

"One of the things I love about Athens Pride is the easiness of being there. As you walk through the crowd the smiles you see on faces. The hellos. The excitement you feel when you see someone who can walk down the street as their most authentic self with their head held high!

For me Pride means being able to live my most authentic self, but also being a voice for those that don’t have theirs yet! Using my lived experience to support others in our community. Pride isn’t just about me, it’s about our community and reminding the rest of the world we are here and not going anywhere. "

- Jacqueline Daniels

 

Event Highlights

  • Festival Opens: 3:00 PM

  • Parade Begins: 5:00 PM

  • Kids Zone Hours: 3:00–8:00 PM

  • Main Stage Adult Performances: 8:00–10:00 PM

  • Admission: FREE!

Expect vibrant vendor tents, food trucks, affirming local organizations, live entertainment, drag performances, and treats from some of Athens’ most beloved local bars and restaurants.

Insider Tips

1. When should I arrive?

Get there when things kick off at 3:00 PM to beat the crowds, grab your favorite merch (stop by the Visit Athens table for rainbow Athens merch!), check out the resource booths, and find the perfect viewing spot for the 5:00 PM parade.

2. Is PrideFest family-friendly?

Definitely! During the day, the Kids Zone and general entertainment are all-ages through 8:00 PM. After that, the main stage becomes 18+ with drag and adult-themed performances from 8:00–10:00 PM. The ACC Festival Zone will be in effect for this event, and wristbands can be purchased for $5 at restaurants and bars in the area. Those 21+ and wearing a wristband will be permitted to carry beer and wine throughout the festival zone.

3. What accessibility accommodations are available at PrideFest?

APQC is committed to inclusivity. If you need accessibility accommodations email steph@athenspride.com in advance to ensure a smooth and welcoming experience. Accessibility will be notated on the event map, and a Quiet Corner tent will be located near the Kid's Zone for sensory needs. 

4.  Can I bring my dog to PrideFest?

While the festival is outdoors and technically pet friendly, we (and APQC) recommend leaving Fido at home. June in Georgia can be HOT, and pavement temperatures could become problematic. 

5. What's your top tip?

June in Georgia brings the heat, so wear breathable clothing, use sunscreen, and bring a refillable water bottle. APQC will have a Water Monster hydration station, but it is BYO cup! In case of emergencies, the Department of Public Health will have a medical tent located next to APQC's large tent at the festival.

Drag Queen's Take: "Hydrate! Hydrate! Hydrate! Drink your water! Have some fun adult beverages, but don’t over do it! As a queen I’ll have my mug layered in setting spray! But really dress comfortably, wear somewhat sensible shoes, and don’t forget that fan!" - Jacqueline Daniels

6. What should folks wear to PrideFest?

Whether you're walking in the parade or cheering from the crowd, show off your Pride! Glitter, signs, rainbow accessories, and costumes are all welcome. Athens loves a bold look! And Visit Athens has you covered with our line of Pride gear and match with me (below on the left)! 

7. Can I take and share pictures? 

Of course! There will be endless photo ops—but always ask before snapping photos of individuals, especially children. Consent helps keep Pride safe and respectful for everyone. Tag @VisitAthensGA, @AthensPrideandQueerCollective in your photos and videos!

8. Will there be vendors at PrideFest?

PrideFest features an incredible array of booths from LGBTQ+ artisans, nonprofits, and affirming businesses. Come ready to explore, connect, and show your support.

9. Does the fun stop at 10pm?

After the festival wraps up at 10:00 PM, the celebration continues! Many local bars and venues will host Pride-themed after-parties, drag shows, and dance nights. Keep an eye on the Visit Athens Instagram and check back here for events updates.

10. How should I get to PrideFest?

Parking downtown will be limited, so rideshares or public transportation are great options. If you're driving, consider parking at The Classic Center or UGA North or West Decks and walking to the event.

BONUS Drag Queen's take:

First time at Pride? "Celebrate yourself! Bring your truest, most authentic self! Hold your head high and be proud of who you are! Just remember that while we celebrate pride once a year that pride is an all year round event. Wake up every day and take the energy, the love, the pride that you feel on Saturday, June 7 into your life. Athens pride is the place that we come to replenish our souls and our minds in our hearts with all the members of our community and a reminder that when it feels like we’re alone that we’re actually not - that there’s a strong and vibrant amazing LGBTQIA+ community right here in Athens in the surrounding areas. " - Jacqueline Daniels

Whether you're a longtime member of the Athens LGBTQ+ community, a first-time visitor, or an enthusiastic ally, PrideFest 2025 is your chance to connect, celebrate, and show up with love.

Looking for more Pride all June long? Check out our LGBTQ+ itinerary and list of queer-friendly businesses in the area!

 

 

 

Athens shows our Pride