It’s here, it’s queer, and it’s now over there. As Atlanta Pride moves this year from its traditional home in Piedmont Park to new surroundings at the Atlanta Civic Center, new rules apply.
There are a number of things that were allowed a Piedmont Park that aren’t allowed at the Civic Center:
NO OUTSIDE ALCOHOL
Unfortunately, all alcohol consumed at the Civic Center must be bought on the grounds.
NO ANIMALS
Unless you are blind, disabled, a member of the bomb squad, or a narcotics unit, you cannot bring your dog, cat, hamster, Vietnamese potbellied pig or tropical bird to Pride.
NO TENTS
Past Prides included a sea of tents providing shade over the masses in the Piedmont Park fields, as long as you didn't stake them in the ground or attempt to spend the night.
Sorry. This year, you cannot pitch a tent at the Civic Center, even during the day.
STRANGERS WITH CANDY
It is not uncommon for someone to pace up and down the lines outside of clubs selling Jello shots or other tasty treats. You may even see attempts near the Civic Center. These are not employees of the clubs or official vendors. It’s illegal to sell liquor on the street in Georgia.
NO GRILLS
Other than the fronts of classic cars at the Lambda Car Show, and the occasional jacked-up teeth variety, grills are not allowed at the Civic Center. Don't plan on a barbecue you cook onsite.
NO WHEELS
Lawsuits just waiting to happen mean no wheels of any kind are allowed at Pride. No in-line and quad skates, skate boards, scooters, kid shoes with wheels, or any other kind of rolling vehicles are allowed in Pride areas of the Civic Center.
NO BITCHING ABOUT THE̴0;PARK
We all get it; you would rather be at Piedmont Park. Get over it and have a good time.
WHAT TO BRING:
YOUR ID
If you want to buy and consume alcohol, you must carry state-issued photo identification. That's not just Pride, that's the law, which suggests carding anyone who looks under 30.
PEN AND PAPER
Pride is filled with social and business networking, as well as out-of-towners. Do yourself a favor and bring something to write down cell phone numbers and email addresses to facilitate future connections.
A BAG
There are tons of giveaways at Pride, and only so much room in your pockets. Bring a backpack or a reusable shopping bag for those key chains, fans, brochures, bracelets and other trinkets. Forget your bag? Come by the Southern Voice booth and we’ll give you one of ours, with some nifty items in it.
BREEZE CARD
The Civic Center has its own MARTA stop. It’s a good idea to use public transportation as parking will be limited.
EXPANDABLE CHAIRS
It’s going to be hot, and the concrete in front of the stage may be even hotter. Bring your own chair to get off your feet.
SUN BLOCK
Painful sunburn is a horrible way to remember Pride 2008. And let's fact it, lobster red skin is just not sexy. Outside temperatures will likely soar, so be prepared.
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