Where the Weird Things Are Returns to the Atlanta Beltline with An Upside Down Parade

On October 19, something unusual is set to unfold at the Historic Fourth Ward Park amphitheater. Where the Weird Things Are: An Upside Down Parade, created and led by the Krewe of the Grateful Gluttons alongside the Black Sheep Ensemble, will bring the space to life with mystical creatures from the wild places of our imaginations.

This one-of-a-kind celebration invites attendees to witness, or even join in, a parade unlike any other – one where the audience roams while the performers stay in place. As guests stroll around the pond and through the parade, they will encounter fantastical beings ready to caper, dance, and perhaps even share their magical tales.

The festivities kick off at 7:00 p.m. when the upside down parade and music begin. Find a cozy spot on the grass or bring a picnic and settle in at the amphitheater to enjoy the full experience. At 7:45 p.m., story time at the amphitheater will bring the creatures' tales to life. The evening ends at 8:15 p.m. with an all-creature dance line around the pond – a sight worth seeing!

But what exactly is a "Weird Thing," you might be wondering? It's any playful creature born from your imagination, brought to life as a handmade costume or puppet to delight both friends and strangers. Those interested in joining the fun can either attend a free cardboard revolution mask and puppet workshop (dates and details here) or craft their own creations at home using downloadable templates. On the day of the upside-down parade, these weird and whimsical creations can gather in the grassy areas near the amphitheater, ready to amuse and engage with visitors.

We encourage "tiny gifting" to sprinkle extra magic into the evening. While candy is welcome, consider offering unique, handcrafted treasures: a snippet of your critter's story, a monster joke, a whimsical fortune, or even an acorn with your monster’s face drawn on it. 

So, mark your calendars for October 19th and let your imagination run wild. Whether you will be there to observe the wonder or become part of the magical menagerie yourself, the weird and wonderful creatures of the Atlanta Beltline cannot wait to meet you!

The 2023-24 Atlanta Beltline Art exhibition is sponsored by Delta Air Lines and Norfolk Southern at the Gold level; Jamestown – Ponce City Market and Northside Hospital at the Silver level; and Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and Kaiser Permanente at the Bronze level. This program is supported in part by the City of Atlanta Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs.

This program is supported in part by the City of Atlanta Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs. Major funding for this organization is provided by the Fulton County Board of Commissioners. This program is supported in part by Georgia Council for the Arts through the appropriations of the Georgia General Assembly. Georgia Council for the Arts also receives support from its partner agency – the National Endowment for the Arts. This project is supported in part by an award from the National Endowment for the Arts. To find out more about how National Endowment for the Arts grants impact individuals and communities, visit www.arts.gov.