It’s going down in Atlanta, Georgia, this week with the Heritage Ball, one of the most ostentatious steppers events on the East Coast – hosted and brought to you by Good Deeds International. Finally, the Heritage Ball returns to its hometown, Atlanta, in 2024 – the first time back where it was, as it was before the pandemic. In the interest of public health, in 2023, GDI and Majestic Gents joined forces to create cooperatively and moved the event and Chicago’s Ultimate White Weekend to Miami during the summer. I enjoyed the GDIGENTS event, but it was not the experience most Heritage Ball veterans were used to for over ten years. No one was more excited than me when I saw the Save the Date flyer for 2024 – Atlanta Forever. We are glad the Heritage Ball has returned to Atlanta – February 22 – 26, 2024.
The Mix of Steppers at the Heritage Ball
Everyone I’ve spoken to expects the 2024 Heritage Ball to be even more packed than ever. We have a gang of Heritage Ball veterans from many cities nationwide returning after years and several newer steppers that were a part of the stepper boom coming out of the pandemic – the post-pandemic steppers. Atlanta has a large stepping community, and the local steppers will be there not only to orchestrate this massive agenda of parties but to enjoy the people and the whole experience. If and when they do the city roll call this year, you won’t miss Chicago – usually the largest section and presence in the room. The Heritage Ball will be a family reunion with many new faces to be inducted into the experience.
My First Impressions of The Beast for 2024 at a Glance
Because steppers know the Heritage Ball is a monster weekend of activities and dancing, the schedule for the weekend is popularly known to eventgoers as “The Beast.” It details every activity planned for the four-day weekend: Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. After taking a look at the lineup for 2024, I noticed a few things:
5 Things About Ball Tradition
- Usually, a memorable part of the weekend start is the set at Ellery’s. This year, the set at Ellery’s is officially an after-party starting at 1 a.m. The jump-off for the weekend is a Mix & Mingle Day Party followed by the Welcome to Atlanta Party at the host hotel. I saw the Nike vs Adidas tagline, which means this is a Sneaker Ball. I am surprised. As we welcome younger steppers, I understand, and it makes sense. I see the schedule. Nonetheless, I am sure many steppers will be at Ellery’s as early as 6 or 7 to keep the tradition. Thursday is Sadie Hawkins style. Ladies ask the gentlemen to dance!
- What I always loved about this weekend were the non-stepping options for dynamic workshops and non-stepping activities that focused on health, relationships, and finances. The schedule shows Zumba, line dancing, and health and fitness workshops for 2024. For activities, I see games, a comedy show, and even a chapel service. Of course, there are stepping workshops, and the lineup is a powerhouse of instructors.
- I love the weekend attire and the different fashion tastes each night. Friday is Afrocentric/African attire, and Saturday is Black Tie elegance. It celebrates our roots and present-day heritage. Thursday and Sunday are no different. Check the Beast for the themes. The fashion at the Heritage Ball is original, beautiful, and stepper sharp – every night.
- The hotel destination remains the same. We’re still in the lobby, partying on different floors and rooms, showcasing African Heritage at Downtown Atlanta Marriott Marquis. Steppers are taking over. It’s still easy to miss someone all weekend due to the numerous places at Heritage Ball. Let’s not forget the Vendor Row. This is a unique setup at the center of the main event in the Atrium. I’ll check out fashion and hope to see my favorite vendor, Bernard with Aumitu, for new leather accessories.
- As a Heritage Ball Veteran, I’m curious about the Sunday Brunch. Particularly, I used to love the All Star Game hosted by Terrance Pratt of Chistepper, but it’s no longer part of the Beast. I’m eager to see how they fill that gap. I am excited for what it might be.
My First Heritage Ball as a Stepper in the Atlanta Area
I am so excited about the homecoming for the Heritage Ball. Being local to Atlanta this year, my Heritage Ball planning is not as hectic. I am only a few miles away. There is no need for a hotel room. I don’t need to get on a plane. The weekend pass for 2024 is $150 – higher than any other year. I believe the level of customer service, number of activities, and scale of this event make it the ONLY event that packages a $150 value for a steppers weekend event. Above all, some proceeds from the event benefit Sisters Empowerment Network – a home for Domestic Violence families. Nothing feels better than giving back. The Heritage Ball is one of my favorite weekends. I hope to see you there and I am taking many pictures! Atlanta Forever!
If you have no idea about the Heritage Ball in Atlanta, Georgia, here is a recap of the event in 2020.
