Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras

The Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras, commonly referred to as the Sydney Mardi Gras, is an annual celebration of LGBTQI pride held in Sydney, Australia. It stands as one of the largest pride events globally and the most prominent in Oceania, attracting hundreds of thousands of participants from across Australia and beyond. The festival is brimming with activities, including the iconic Sydney Mardi Gras Parade and Party, Bondi Beach Drag Races, Harbour Party, Queer Thinking panel discussions, the Mardi Gras Film Festival, and Fair Day at Victoria Park.

The origins of this vibrant event date back to gay rights parades in 1978. Today, the Mardi Gras Parade continues to advocate for LGBTQI rights while encompassing a broader spectrum of participants, including members of the Australian Defence Force, police officers, and emergency services personnel. This event also provides a substantial economic boost to New South Wales, contributing roughly AUD 30 million annually.

Throughout its history, the Mardi Gras has encountered its share of controversies, including debates over name changes and commercialization. It has also served as a potent platform for social activism, such as the fight for marriage equality. The festival enjoys political support from various leaders and is internationally recognized as a leading LGBTQI event.

In 2023, Sydney will host WorldPride for the first time, marking a historic occasion as the event will be held in the Southern Hemisphere and the Asia-Pacific region for the first time. WorldPride Sydney 2023 will coincide with several significant milestones: the 50th anniversary of the first Australian Gay Pride Week, the 45th anniversary of the Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras, and the 5th anniversary of Marriage Equality in Australia. The festival will present a diverse lineup of events celebrating inclusion and advocating for LGBTQI rights.