Thousands expected in downtown Atlanta Labor Day weekend

ATLANTA - Several hundred thousand people are expected to descend on downtown Atlanta this Labor Day weekend, which will play host to a number of major events.

The Dragoncon parade and convention, Black Gay Pride and the Chik-Fil-A Kickoff Game will pack downtown streets. People coming out are encouraged to use MARTA and leave early, ensuring you will have plenty of time to get to your event on time. Those who decide to drive should expect parking to be scarce with crowded roads.

Atlanta Police will join other law enforcement agencies making sure everyone is safe.  A.P.D. officials told FOX 5 they will have lots of uniform officers on the streets. They also plan on having a significant number of plainclothes officers in the crowds. Police are working closely with Dragoncon organizers to beef up security in the convention's gaming areas. This after last weekend's shooting at a Jacksonville video game tournament.

The Dragoncon parade takes place Saturday morning at 10. Atlanta Black Gay Pride weekend events have already begun and will continue until Monday. Auburn and the University of Washington will kickoff in Mercedes Benz Stadium Saturday at 3:30 p.m.

Downtown Atlanta is not the only area expected to see crowds. Festivals are scheduled for Marietta, Decatur and Grant Park. The Braves are also playing all weekend long at SunTrust Park.