The parade grounds might have settled down and the biodegradable glitter may have been washed away, but you’d best believe the queer energy that’s born every year from Mardi Gras lives on!
With a few more wrap-up events still to go, that celebrate LGBTIQA+ freedom and equality in all its colours, the time’s come to turn to the ticket counters and get outfit planning for how you’ll see-out yet another successful Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras.
Here’s what’s on…
KAFTANA POOL PARTY
Saturday 2 April 2022, 12-8pm. ivy Pool
Steam your muumuus and dust off your chunky costume jewelry, Kaftana Partyis back. The iconic ivy Pool will be transformed into the ultimate retro daydream for this poolside afternoon of extravagant fabulousness. Sit back, sip on a Pink Lady, and celebrate with a camp smorgasbord of DJs including Queen Shirene, Kate Monroe, KILIMI and Division 4. As well as special performances from the likes of Drag legend Joyce Maynge, Burlesque wonder Mama Medusa and genderf*ck drag artist Peach Fuzz.
Tickets: Second release $60
More info: www.mardigras.org.au/events/kaftana-pool-party
SISSY BALL
Sunday 3 April 2022, 6-11pm. Sydney Town Hall
Join the fierce icons and rising stars of the Australian ballroom scene and soak in the essence of queer culture, art and expression at Sissy Ball. This glam throw down is upping the ante, making its grand debut at the opulent Sydney Town Hall – a venue truly fit for all kweens!
Curated by House of Slé godmother Kilia Pahulu;style, precision and a whole lot of sass will collide on the runway as contestants battle it out in a number of categories including Butch Queen Tag Team, Femme Queen Face, Hands Performance, Big Body Sex Siren and Virgin Vogue.
The 2022 edition of Australia’s biggest vogue ball will feature the party beats of KILIMI and a special performance by hip hop artist BVT.
Judging the dips, flips and hair whips will be some of Australia and New Zealand’s biggest names in ballroom including Ella Ganza (House of Alexander), Jamaica Moana, Kiki Dévine Oricci (House of Dévine), Jack Silky (House of Silky) and New Zealand’s legendary mother of House of IMAN Jaycee IMAN.
Walker registrations are open so if you think you can sashay with the best of them, register now!
Tickets: Third release GA $82, VIP $102
More info: www.mardigras.org.au/events/sissy-ball
PARADISO POOL PARTY
Sunday 24 April 2022, 12pm until late. ivy Pool
Mardi Gras is turning the iconic ivy Pool and Changeroom into the epitome of Mediterranean sun kissed glam for the ultimate Pool Party this April long weekend. Pull up to a poolside cabana as the cocktails flow and the DJs, live vocalists and musicians turn day into night across the Pool Club and Changeroom. The stacked line-up features Amanda Louise, Jarred Baker, James Alexander, DJ ENN, Dom de Sousa, Jonny Marsh, L.O.U, DJ Hamo.
Tickets: $100
More info: www.mardigras.org.au/events/paradiso-pool-party