In 2025, The 404 Collective did something Atlanta had never seen before: a full-scale parade dedicated to the city’s own unofficial holiday. The inaugural 404 Day Parade brought thousands to Peachtree Street for a celebration of everything that makes Atlanta one of the most culturally significant cities in America. 2 Chainz performed, the crowds were massive, and a new tradition was born.
Now it’s back. The 2nd Annual 404 Day Parade takes place on Saturday, April 4, 2026, from 10 AM to 12 PM. The event is free to attend and happens rain or shine. Here’s everything you need to know to watch it, join it, or just soak it all in.
Date, Time, and Key Details
- Date: Saturday, April 4, 2026
- Time: 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
- Cost: Free to attend
- Location: Peachtree Street, Downtown Atlanta
- Weather policy: Rain or shine — the parade goes on regardless
The Parade Route
The 2026 parade marches down Peachtree Street, one of Atlanta’s most iconic thoroughfares. Here’s the route from start to finish:
- Start: Peachtree Street at Ralph McGill Boulevard and Cortland Street
- End: Pryor Street and Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, near Underground Atlanta
The route runs straight down Peachtree Street, passing through the heart of downtown before ending near Underground Atlanta — where the Block Party and other 404 Day Weekend events are centered. It’s a walkable, spectator-friendly route with plenty of space to line up along the sidewalks.
Best Viewing Spots
You’ll have a good view from just about anywhere along Peachtree Street between Ralph McGill Boulevard and Marietta Street. That said, here are some strategic spots to consider:
- Near the start (Ralph McGill Blvd): You’ll see the parade units when they’re fresh and energized. Arrive early to claim your spot — this area fills up fast.
- Peachtree Center area (mid-route): The middle of the route is ideal if you want the full parade experience without the congestion at the start or finish. Easy MARTA access from Peachtree Center Station.
- Near the finish (approaching Underground Atlanta): The energy builds as the parade nears its conclusion. If you’re planning to head straight to the Block Party afterward, this is the most convenient spot to watch from.
Getting There: MARTA Is Your Best Friend
Street closures along Peachtree Street mean that driving and parking near the parade route will be difficult. MARTA is strongly recommended. Three stations put you within easy walking distance of the route:
- Civic Center Station — closest to the parade start at Ralph McGill Boulevard
- Peachtree Center Station — drops you right in the middle of the action
- Five Points Station — located near the parade’s end point at Underground Atlanta
All three stations are on MARTA’s North-South (Gold/Red) line. If you’re coming from the east or west side, transfer at Five Points. Plan to arrive early — trains will be busier than usual on parade day.
How to Apply to March in the Parade
The 404 Day Parade isn’t just for watching — it’s for participating. The 404 Collective accepts applications from groups and organizations across eight categories:
- Small Business
- Car and Motorcycle Groups
- Corporate Partners
- Political Organizations
- Nonprofits
- Walking Groups
- Schools and Marching Bands
- Volunteers
Whether you’re a neighborhood business owner, a nonprofit leader, a car club, a school band director, or someone who just wants to volunteer and help make the parade happen, there’s a place for you in the lineup.
Visit the parade page for application details and deadlines.
Check-In Requirements for Participants
If you’re marching in the parade, check-in is from 8:00 AM to 9:00 AM on parade day. You must check in during this window to participate. Arrive on time, know your assigned staging area, and follow all instructions from parade organizers. The parade steps off at 10 AM sharp — late arrivals may not be accommodated.
What to Bring
- Comfortable shoes — you’ll be standing or walking for several hours
- Sunscreen and a hat — early April sun can be stronger than you expect
- A rain jacket or poncho — the parade is rain or shine, so come prepared
- Water — stay hydrated, especially if it’s a warm day
- Your best Atlanta energy — this is a celebration, after all
After the Parade
The parade ends near Underground Atlanta, which means you’re steps away from the Block Party — the free daytime main event of 404 Day Weekend. The transition from parade to party is seamless. Once the last float passes, head over to Underground and keep the celebration going with live music, food vendors, and community activations.
Later that evening, the weekend wraps up with the Night Party at The Stave Room from 9 PM to 1 AM. That event is ticketed, so grab yours in advance if you want to close out 404 Day Weekend in style.
View the full 404 Day Weekend event schedule.
A Tradition Worth Showing Up For
The 2025 inaugural parade proved that Atlanta was ready for this. The 2026 edition builds on that foundation with a route that cuts through the core of downtown, categories that welcome every corner of the community, and a weekend of events that surround it. The 404 Day Parade is Atlanta marching for itself — and everyone’s invited.