On May 10th, there was a major buzz on social media, as it was announced that 6 bands had left Atlanta-Dekalb Carnival 2022 and moved downtown. Citing a reduction of allowed music trucks on the route, the 6 bands felt they would best provide a great experience downtown with its parade route. These bands include:
What this means for ATL-Dekalb
The Atlanta-Dekalb Carnival parade route was primarily on a state road. Government officials mandated a reduction to 18 trucks on Covington Highway. As a result, many smaller bands agreed to merge with one music truck and one for food, drinks, and other utilities. Below is a list of bands still participating, along with those who have merged:
- Vibez and Vision
- Sokah Feters/Atlanta Junkanoo
- Feter’s Army/ Paradise
- T&T Garage Boys/ Sesame Atlanta/ Classi Waves
- Madd Flava/ Unity Mas Band/ We Live
- Mas Vibez
- Panyarders Mas
- Entice Mas
- AIRS
The parade route has changed. It The ATL-Dekalb Carnival parade route now starts at Covington Hwy near International Roti House 3703 Covington Hwy, Decatur, GA 30032. It will end at 4380 Memorial Drive, Decatur, GA, 30032.
What this means for (downtown) Atlanta Carnival
(Downtown) Atlanta’s carnival parade has been sparse and will realize its largest carnival event since the split in 2014/2015. Their parade route hasn’t changed. Click here to learn about Atlanta Carnival.
Check out my interview with Chigga, the president of the Atlanta Carnival Bandleader’s Association (ACBA).
Some keynotes:
- Masqueraders registered with bands migrated downtown will not attend the Atlanta Dekalb Carnival festival village for free.
- The parade is set to last four hours. It is a requirement that all the mas bands clear Covington Highway in 2.5 hours.
- There have been no changes to J’ouvert.
- This year’s carnival may be the last we see on a road. Look for information on a move to a park or stadium.
