For the past 11 years, Bonfire Atlanta’s storied Sunday night parties have been an institution in the city’s nightlife. Now, the so-called “church for those that may not be religious” has a new home at Underground Atlanta.
The weekly bonfire has seen many location changes across over a decade in operation, most recently at their location at Donald Lee Hollowell Parkway. On Aug. 5, the group — founded by Terry SkyWalker, Amichi Bertrand and Brian “Flex” Wynder — kicked off residency at a permanent home on the top level of Underground in Downtown Atlanta.
Bonfire’s promise is simple: Release, spearheaded by booming music, dozens of vendors and a “bring your own party” spirit. Around 10 p.m., the mini-festival begins, but live performances don’t kick off until around 11 p.m. From there, a variety show ensues until the bonfire is properly lit. Midnight starts live performances with bands from all genres, and 1 a.m. sees an afterparty with DJs and a silent disco.
It’s a packed roster and the co-founders like it that way. “Flex” Wynder stressed the weekly event is for everyone. Each Sunday is a “mix up of different cultures” creating a classically Atlanta night out.
“We encompass the party element and the party atmosphere for everyone, and we want to bring more of that to the city,” Wynder said.
At the humid August 5 kickoff, the fire was still a small glow as security fielded a line of attendees. Bonfire ATL was still setting up its first night at Underground, with a handful of vendors selling snacks, drinks, hookah and handmade wares. Across from a stage, some people started playing giant checkers while others watched on from outdoor furniture.
Lyle Baldes, Special Events Manager for Underground owner Lalani Ventures, said he was curious to know if people would turn out for Bonfire in its new location with the same energy from before.
“It feels exactly like it; it feels like everybody’s having a good time, smiling, enjoying talking and spending their Sunday night together, closing out their week,” Baldes said.
The Underground overseer visited a Bonfire Atlanta party at their previous location last winter after hearing the party was looking for a new space. Since Lalani Ventures acquired Underground in 2020 the investment firm has spearheaded redevelopment of the multi-block entertainment district.
But the party group and venue only started collaborating three months ago. Now, they’re two Sunday night parties in, with a third only days away.
“For us, it was why wait, when we can start now, especially this time of year,” Baldes said.
As head of programming, Baldes said the appeal of Bonfire ATL comes in its consistency. It’s a reliable event that brings a loyal audience, in turn boosting attendance for surrounding businesses and venues.
Both groups have similar goals, though — a consistent, exciting and safe nightlife experience among pricey and image-focused clubs. When Bonfire tells people to “bring their own party,” it’s no joke — guests can bring in a cooler of alcohol.
“Our goal is to make a safe place for everyone to be able to exercise their right to party,” Wynder said.
It’s a choose-your-own night out approach made possible by an ever-changing lineup, ranging from popular DJs to “African vibes” and an occasional Mariachi band.
“You never really know what to expect when you come to Bonfire,” Wynder said.
The event lineup changes on a weekly basis but the community is consistent. Part of that is the price tag. Tickets range from $15 to $25 and co-founder Terry Skywalker said there’s no added costs like bottle service, VIP rooms or $100 parking.
“It’s more so about community and the people and giving them something to look forward to before the week starts,” Skywalker said.
Skywalker and Wynder see Bonfire as stress relief from the demands of the workweek. It’s where people can let loose. Wynder said attendees often break down crying at the events because they “get to express” and be themselves.
The new location is a stress reliever for the organizers, too. Across more than a decade in business, Bonfire has seen several locations and butt heads with the city government. Skywalker said the party hasn’t always been “understood” by the city, but the new location changes things.
“[The city] knows who we are — what we bring — and they’re excited to see what it looks like here,” Skywalker said.
While the co-founder expressed frustration that he’s never communicated with the city despite having 11 years in business and a roster of 30 employees, he thinks Bonfire ATL can be good for the city.
Wynder echoed Skywalker, citing the Fifa World Cup in 2026 as a huge draw for nightlife in downtown Atlanta. The city will host eight matches at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, a 17-minute walk from Underground.
“We want to be part of those international party starters there,” Wynder said.
In the meantime, the team at Bonfire ATL is focused on perfecting its stay at Underground Atlanta one Sunday at a time, starting August 5. Wynder said to look out for new businesses and pop-ups across the district as the “marriage” between party and place continues.
“You know, underground has some historic history here in Atlanta, and so does bonfire with over 10 years of being involved with what we do here for the culture,” Wynder said. “But I think tonight is really gonna set the tone for the new nightlife in Atlanta.”
