For the third year, the gays behind Marietta Rainbow Fest, metro Atlanta’s OTP Pride, expands its concept, schedule and slate of performers under a “Circus” theme this year.

The North Georgia Rainbow Coalition’s inaugural event in 2010 was one all-day, all-night party. Last year, it expanded to two days and nights. Well, step right up, circus goers: Four days of Marietta Rainbow Festival go down beginning Wednesday with shows, parties, games and vendors to serve an underappreciated but “strong” LGBT population outside the Perimeter in their neck of the woods.

But as the brainchild of LeBuzz owner Jonathan Murphy, Marietta Rainbow Fest (photos, view more) is for everybody else, too.

“We are excited and it is bigger,” Murphy says. “Everyone is welcome. Come one, come all.”

Nightlife starts things off with Rainbow Pride performances Wednesday and Thursday. At Wednesday’s opening ceremonies, drag maven Charlie Brown gets roasted. On Thursday, Ladies Night Pride features The Kings Production Show.

On Friday and Saturday nights, performances continue headlined by the latest, greatest circus-themed Divas Cabaret production. None other than Charlie Brown heads up the Divas show.

The festival kicks into high gear at 1 p.m. on Saturday with shopping, bands, food trucks, more than 100 performers and more outdoor fun by day. By night, move into LeBuzz for an afterparty, where opening numbers and the Divas “Circus” show are just the beginning. Look for speakers, food, live bands and a Pride Dance Party.

“This is a free event during the day on Saturday and everyone is welcome,” Murphy says. “It’s going to be a blast.”

Need more? The proceeds this year go to Lost-n-Found Youth, which helps get homeless LGBT youth off the streets and on their way to a better life. Visit the festival site online for more information.

Photos by Sher Pruitt for Project Q Atlanta