Atlanta Pride has opened nominations for its 2026 Grand Marshals. The title honors the individuals and organizations across Georgia whose work has strengthened and uplifted the LGBTQ+ community.

“Serving as a Grand Marshal is a powerful recognition of the work happening across our community,” said Chris McCain, Executive Director of Atlanta Pride. “It allows us to uplift those who are making a difference and to celebrate their impact in a very visible way. We encourage everyone to take part and help highlight the people and groups shaping our future.”

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Community members are encouraged to submit candidates who have demonstrated meaningful contributions, leadership, and service to the LGBTQ+ community. Each nomination must be submitted separately, with one individual or group per form, and nominees should be informed of their nomination.

Political candidates are not eligible to be Grand Marshals, and selections are made based on a nominee’s contributions to the community rather than the number of nominations received. The selected Grand Marshals will lead the 2026 Atlanta Pride parade on Oct. 11.

Nominations for the 2026 Atlanta Pride Grand Marshals will close on May 1 at 11:59 p.m.

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Katie Burkholder is a staff writer for Georgia Voice and Rough Draft Atlanta. She previously served as editor of Georgia Voice.