Tag: gay sydney

What to expect this Sydney Mardi Gras 2024

MArdi Gras drag queen MARDI GRAS AFTERPARTY 24 FULL JORDAN MUNNS @jordankmunns 156

Get ready to paint the town rainbow as the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Festival returns with all its fabulous flair from 14 February to 2 March 2025. With its theme “FREE TO BE,” the festival is set to illuminate the city with a dazzling display of pride, culture, and community spirit, celebrating decades of progress while championing the individuality and resilience of the LGBTQIA+ community. Gil Beckwith, CEO of the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras, captures the essence of this year’s celebration: “Each year, Mardi Gras brings together people from across the globe for a vibrant celebration of community, visibility, and progress. The 2025 festival embodies this spirit, reflecting the resilience, creativity, and unity of our LGBTQIA+ communities. We are thrilled to welcome everyone to this year’s festivities.” Sydney’s Lord Mayor Clover Moore AO echoes the excitement, noting, “Mardi Gras is one of my favourite times of the year. Sydney truly sparkles with diversity, inclusion, and love proudly on show. We’re delighted to welcome people from around the world to our wonderful city – a place that embraces and celebrates everyone, where you are truly Free to Be.” With over 80 events on the agenda, this year’s festival promises a kaleidoscope of experiences, from the grand parade to intimate theatre performances. Signature events like the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade remain at the heart of the festival, with the newly revamped Taylor Square Takeover offering a fresh block party vibe for parade-goers. After a brief hiatus, Fair Day returns to… Read More

Mardi Gras wrap up for 2025

Screenshot 20240303 102425

The vibrant and diverse streets of Sydney were illuminated with the spirit of pride and celebration as the 46th annual Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade took center stage on Saturday, 2 March. A staggering estimated 250,000 spectators flocked to Oxford St, Flinders St, and Anzac Parade, uniting in solidarity and bearing witness to a spectacular procession of over 12,000 participants who brought the night to life with their creativity, advocacy, and unapologetic pride under the theme “Our Future…”. Reflecting on the electrifying Parade, CEO of Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras, Gil Beckwith, expressed, “Tonight’s Parade was a vibrant testament to the strength and resilience of the LGBTQIA+ community. As we marched under the banner of ‘Our Future…’, we not only honor the past 45 years of history and progress but also took a bold step toward shaping a more inclusive and diverse future.” Lord Mayor Clover Moore AO echoed this sentiment, emphasizing Sydney’s role as a beacon for LGBTIQA+ communities, stating, “Sydney has always been a beacon for LGBTIQA+ communities and that pride is most spectacularly on show during Mardi Gras. This year’s March was another triumph of sequins and spirit.” Amid the celebration, the Parade also served as a poignant reminder of the ongoing fight for equality within the LGBTIQA+ communities. Mayor Moore reinforced this, noting, “These past few weeks have been particularly hard for our LGBTIQA+ communities but tonight we all came together for a wonderful celebration of queer love, culture, and struggle. When the biodegradable glitter settles, the fight… Read More

G Flip and Uber Pool for Mardi Gras

Screenshot 20240302 182945

Get ready to ride with pride this Mardi Gras parade day, because Aussie singer, drummer, and queer icon G Flip is riding around festivities exclusively via Uber Pool on March 2nd, and you could be in with a chance of sharing a ride with them. To celebrate Mardi Gras, Uber has teamed up with global superstar G Flip, giving Sydneysiders the chance to share a ride with them to the festival. Fresh off setting the record for the most entries in the Hottest 100 ever, G Flip is ready to start the Mardi Gras party by giving a few lucky riders the Uber Pool ride of a lifetime as they head out to parades, parties, and other festival events. For one day only, G Flip will be riding around Sydney in the queerest Uber vehicle, decked out with rainbow good vibes and offering everything you need for the perfect Mardi Gras pre-game. Share a karaoke classic with the Aussie singer-songwriter as you share the journey and impress them with your renditions of their iconic hits as you get pumped for the night ahead. To be in with a chance to ride with G Flip, just register your interest here and tell us why you’d love to be part of G Flip’s pride ride. G Flip said: “I’m so stoked to be back in Australia for Mardi Gras! It’s one of my favourite days of the year. I’m going to be hopping in a few Uber Pool rides on the day of the parade, so stay… Read More

Mardi Gras Debutante Ball in Sydney

Screenshot 20240228 215257

On Thursday, Kinselas Hotel in Darlinghurst set the stage for a momentous occasion as it hosted the inaugural Mardi Gras Debutante Ball by Johnnie Walker. This event marked the first steps of Mardi Gras first-timers as they ventured to join their community for the iconic celebration. Eight first-timers from the LGBTQIA+ community had the opportunity to share their stories and win tickets to attend the Debutante Ball, making it an unforgettable experience for them. As they walked the Gold Carpet, these individuals debuted proudly, warmly welcomed by festival custodians, the community, and the trailblazers who have paved the way for them. The evening unfolded at the iconic Darlinghurst venue, where the Mardi Gras Debutante Ball became a fabulous celebration of all queer identities, truly honoring the progress, strength, and diversity of the LGBTQIA+ community. The highlight of the Ball was none other than Natalie Bassingthwaighte, who made her debut for her first Mardi Gras since openly identifying as queer last year. Her presence added an extra layer of significance to the event, symbolizing the ongoing journey of self-discovery, acceptance, and pride within the community. The Mardi Gras Debutante Ball by Johnnie Walker exemplified the spirit of inclusivity and acceptance, serving as a testament to the progress made and the unity embraced within the LGBTQIA+ community. It was a night of joy, empowerment, and celebration, representing the collective strides towards a more diverse and welcoming society. As the festivities unfolded, it became clear that this groundbreaking event has redefined the traditional concept of the Debutante Ball,… Read More

Queer art after hours in Sydney

Screenshot 20240222 215623

Get ready to mark your calendars because on Wednesday, February 28th, the crowd-favorite Queer Art After Hours event is set to make a vibrant return to the Art Gallery of New South Wales. This year’s edition promises an exciting lineup that has just been unveiled, and it’s one you won’t want to miss! Renowned as one of the most eagerly anticipated annual events at the Art Gallery, Queer Art After Hours has continually stood out as a highlight among the free offerings of the Mardi Gras festival. It serves as a powerful platform for LGBTQIA+ artists, performers, and storytellers, bringing the community together for a night of celebration that honors diversity, resilience, and creativity within the Queer community. In light of the recent cancellation of Fair Day, this year’s Queer Art After Hours aims to keep the party vibes alive with a spectacular FREE offering. Visitors can look forward to a kaleidoscope of interactive pop-up performances, installations, workshops, and DJ sets, all while embarking on their own unique art adventure exploring the exhibitions and collections on this unforgettable evening. The 2024 lineup is nothing short of extraordinary, featuring a diverse range of experiences. From the thought-provoking video and spoken word installation “Queers as in Crip” to performances delving into butch and leather culture in “Dyke Vignettes,” the stage will come alive with fierce and fabulous drag performances by Miss First Nations queens Nova Gina, Josie Baker, and Shaniqua Empirè. Additionally, visitors can expect a captivating performance inspired by the occasional presence of pigeons in the… Read More

Mardi Gras-inspired yum cha extravaganza

Beresford Absolut Colourful brunch Mardi Gras 8

Get ready to indulge in an unforgettable culinary experience as The Bob Hawke Beer & Leisure Centre introduces ‘Mardi Cha’, a delightful twist on their monthly yum cha event, set to infuse the spirit of Mardi Gras into every delectable bite. This exciting food event is a must-visit for anyone seeking an exceptional way to celebrate Mardi Gras and kick off March with style. Mardi Cha Details: Embrace the Fusion of Mardi Gras and Yum Cha Imagine the vibrant collision of Mardi Gras and Yum Cha, resulting in the creation of “Mardi Cha”! Hosted by the charismatic Jackie Daniels and her friends, this event promises to be the ultimate precursor to one of Sydney’s most anticipated nights of the year. The Lucky Prawn will be transformed into a Mardi Gras-inspired hub, offering an elevated yum cha experience that embodies the festive spirit of Mardi Gras. Join Jackie and her friends from 11 am to 4 pm for a culinary journey like no other. The Perfect Recovery Plan For those looking to recover or simply extend the celebrations into Sunday, fear not! Jackie Daniels will return with a more subdued Mardi Cha experience on Sunday. Indulge in $12 Bloody Mary’s and unwind to the tunes of a vinyl DJ playing from 4 pm until late. It’s the ideal setting to replenish your spirits and revel in the laid-back ambiance, providing the perfect antidote to the post-Mardi Gras festivities. If this sounds like your cup of tea (or perhaps a refreshing cocktail), Mardi Cha at The Bob… Read More

What’s on this Sydney Mardi Gras

Sydney Mardi Gras SCG parade 2

Get ready to immerse yourself in a whirlwind of vibrant events as Mardi Gras sweeps through Sydney. From dazzling dress-up soirees to exhilarating drag performances, here’s a sneak peek into what’s in store from 16th February to 3rd March. Unmissable highlights: Caviar Bumps and Frozen Vodka Indulge in an extraordinary experience as Applejack will have the special Mardi Gras cocktail menu running at The Butler, Forrester’s and Taphouse. Drag Bingo & Caviar ‘Bumps’ Join drag royalty Dakota Fann’ee for a delightful session of Drag Bingo at Bar Morris, featuring sass, sparkle, sangria, and a delectable snacks and shares menu by Head Chef Rosy Scatigna on 2nd March. Glitter Me Up Forrester’s is all set to add some serious shine and sparkle to major event days throughout the festival with FREE POP-UP GLITTER STATIONS presented by Archie Rose. Don’t miss out on the glitter extravaganza at Forry’s on 3 dates, including Fair Day, Bondi Beach Party Day, and Parade Day. Slip & Slay Bottomless Experience love and celebration at Taphouse with the launch of Slip & Slay Bottomless—an all-day menu offering Chinese tasting platters and a 2-hour beverage package featuring craft beers, wines, prosecco, and a frozen cocktail on arrival, starting from 15th February. Additionally, indulge in an extravagant rooftop brunch hosted by drag Queens, Dominique Topp and Danni Issues on 24th February. Drag Trivia & Bingo Join in the electrifying events at Woolly Bay Hotel, including Drag Bingo and Drag Trivia hosted by the legendary queen Felicity Frockaccino. Get ready for a classic game of… Read More

Over 40 parties to get into this Sydney World Pride 2023

Sydney Mardi Gras SCG parade 2

From 17 February – 5 March to celebrate Sydney WorldPride 2023, there are over 40 new parties and events to get your gay on. They’re saying there’s an event to suit everyone with drag brunches, long lunches, dog shows and rooftop parties, plus Merivale’s inaugural Pride Plane experience, so we’ve done some digging and pulled out some favourites, listed below – there are too many options, though to list them all! Rest assured, if you’re used to Sydney’s renowned Mardi Gras celebrations, the oldies will still be back, like Vic on the Pardi Gras (at Vic on the Park Hotel, Marrickville), The Beresford Dog Show and Drag Brunches taking place across The Beresford, Coogee Rooftop, Queen Chow Enmore, ivy Pool Club and The Paddington. DRAG GALA AT TARONGA ZOO This year, as part of WorldPride, the team have launched the inaugural Drag Gala performance, featuring performances from the one and only Karen from Finance alongside several  best, iconic and most sought-after drag superstars: KITA MEAN, SPANKIE JACKZON & CARLA FROM BANKSTOWN  Highlighting the diverse range of talent, disciplines and backgrounds that the Down Under drag scene offers, the Drag Gala will be a fresh new format, with group acts, duos and solos. The Drag Gala will be hosted by the queen of corporate herself, Karen From Finance, who recently placed as one of the top four finalists in season one of RuPaul’s Drag Race Down Under, which took to international airways in May 2021. Get tickets here DRAG HAUS WORLD PRIDE 2023 With 15+ Queens in the mix, and 30+ performances, this supersized Drag Haus will be a true showing of drag excellence for… Read More

World Pride exhibition in Sydney with The Huxleys and an installation by Paul Yore

The Huxleys drag performers

Gay Sydney and The Huxleys are almost synonymous. Their glitter, their glam and their avant garde approach to drag, art and immersive exhibitionism is seconded by very few around the world. And this year, the Huxleys duo, artist Paul Yore and other contemporaries will put on a show worthy of World Pride in Sydney for the millions of punters from across the globe. MORE: Kylie Minogue will headline World Pride Sydney In 2024, Carriageworks in Eveleigh Sydney, one of Australia’s most significant contemporary multi-arts organisations, today announced a dynamic program spanning visual arts and live performance to be presented as part of Sydney Festival 2023. Presented from 5 January – 5 March 2023, a major new exhibition Bloodlines by Melbourne-based collaborative duo The Huxleys will honour legendary queer artists lost to the HIV/AIDS epidemic. Utilising the artists’ skills in costume design, performance and photography, the exhibition will include large-scale photographic works, video art and an opening live art party on 4 January. The exhibition will also feature a durational collaborative installation that invites the community to contribute panels to be sewn together into a quilt, reminiscent of the AIDS Memorial Quilts created during the 80s and 90s. Bloodlines is a heartfelt tribute to LGBTQIA+ artists, including Leigh Bowery, Robert Mapplethorpe, Keith Haring and Sylvester, that continue to inspire the practices of The Huxleys and countless artists working today. Artist Paul Yore will present Paul Yore: WORD MADE FLESH, a major immersive installation, from 5 January – 26 February 2023. WORD MADE FLESH is a new… Read More

Sydney Mardi Gras in April: keep the festivities going with 3 more events

Pool gay men Mardi Gras

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 PoolSteam 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 $60More info: www.mardigras.org.au/events/kaftana-pool-party SISSY BALL Sunday 3 April 2022, 6-11pm. Sydney Town HallJoin 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… Read More