Just as Atlanta Pride’s Stonewall Week is set to begin this weekend, the Pride Committee announces that the official kick off party for Atlanta Pride in October will once again be held at the Georgia Aquarium.

The party is set for Friday, Oct. 7, and includes entertainment from renowned DJ Corey Craig and Jujubee, who came to fame as the quirky and fierce finalist of Season 2 of Rupaul’s Drag Race as well as a professor on Rupaul’s Drag U. Also spinning at the party will be local favorite DJay McCracken.

The party kicks off the largest Pride fest in the Southeast held Oct. 8-9 in Piedmont Park to coincide with National Coming Out Day.

“Georgia Aquarium is thrilled to host the annual Official Kickoff Party for Atlanta Pride again in 2011,” said Will Ramsey, vice president of Group Sales, in a statement.

“Georgia Aquarium’s truly unique venue is really the perfect location for the commencement of Pride activities. Our unusual and beautiful backdrop is such a complement to the richness and diversity of the LGBT community that will come together here in Atlanta for another year’s celebration.”

This year marks the third year Atlanta Pride has officially kicked off Pride at the Georgia Aquarium, said James Parker Sheffield, executive director of Atlanta Pride, in a statement.

“The [Atlanta Pride Committee] views the Georgia Aquarium as an important partner, and we are so pleased that we can welcome residents and visitors alike to the world’s largest aquarium for this wonderful event celebrating the LGBT community,” he said.

DJ Corey Craig has played at some of the hottest parties in the world, including in numerous New York City clubs, the White Party in Palm Springs and the world-famous Fire Island parties.

Jujubee is one drag queen who is hot to trot and can entertain a crowd like no other, promises the Atlanta Pride Committee. Jujubee will first perform in the Aquarium’s Oceans Ballroom and then “sashay” over to host her own show in the “Jujubee Lounge.”

Tickets to the Official Kickoff Party are available now at: www.georgiaaquarium.org/atlantapride.

Top photo: DJ Craig (courtesy of Atlanta Pride Committee)