UPDATE: This article was updated on August 15, 2024, with confirmation of the official Sydney Mardi Gras 2025 festival dates.
The Sydney Mardi Gras parade and official after-party are iconic events held each year in NSW that promise to be unforgettable celebrations of love, diversity, and acceptance for the queer community.
The events are held over three weekends and form part of a Mardi Gras season in which multiple official and unofficial events are held.
The Mardi Gras season kicks off with Fair Day. The official dates for the Sydney Mardi Gras 2025 festival season will be February 14, 2025, to Sunday, March 2, 2025. While the official Fair Day date has yet to be announced, it has typically been held on the first Sunday of the season, which will be Sunday, February 16. The parade and after-party are confirmed to be on Saturday, March 1.
The Bondi Beach Party was added to the line-up in 2023 during Sydney WorldPride and held again in 2024 as part of Mardi Gras. Whether it will be held again in 2025 remains to be seen, especially given the financial difficulty facing Mardi Gras in recent times and the indication that the organisation will need to cut back in 2025. We will know more when a full line-up of events is announced later in 2024.
A glittering extravaganza
The Mardi Gras parade holds a special place in the hearts of millions, both locally and globally, as one of the largest LGBTQI+ celebrations in the world. This iconic event is not just a parade; it’s a symbol of freedom, equality, and the unyielding spirit of the LGBTQI+ community. As the sun sets over the picturesque cityscape, the streets come alive with a kaleidoscope of colours, costumes, and exuberant energy.
What to expect
The Sydney Mardi Gras parade remains the centrepiece of the festival, drawing crowds from all corners of the globe. Spectators can expect to be dazzled by a mesmerising procession of floats, each more extravagant than the last, adorned with glittering decorations, flamboyant costumes, and pulsating music.
From drag performers to community groups, corporate sponsors to political activists, the parade showcases the diversity and creativity of the LGBTQI+ community in all its glory.
But the festivities extend far beyond the parade route. Throughout the festival, Sydney comes alive with myriad events catering to every taste and interest.
From themed parties to art exhibitions, film screenings to panel discussions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of queer culture, explore thought-provoking issues, and celebrate the achievements and resilience of the LGBTQI+ community.
Highlight events
While every aspect of Sydney Mardi Gras is a highlight in its own right, there are certain events that stand out on the festival calendar:
- The parade: Undoubtedly the crown jewel of Sydney Mardi Gras, the parade brings together thousands of participants and spectators for a night of revelry and solidarity.
- The official after-party: After the parade concludes, the party continues well into the night with electrifying performances by local and international artists, DJs spinning infectious beats, and an atmosphere of pure euphoria.
- Queer’s Screen’s Mardi Gras film festival: Film enthusiasts can indulge in a curated selection of queer cinema, featuring compelling stories and diverse voices from around the world.
- Fair Day: A hub of activity and engagement, the community Fair Day event, typically held at Victoria Park, provides an opportunity for LGBTQI+ organizations and allies to connect, educate, and celebrate in a fun and inclusive environment.
- Bondi Beach Party: The iconic beach hosts renowned international DJs and performers as the sun sets on the picturesque global landmark.
When the official dates of the Mardi Gras season are announced, we will update this page.
CORRECTION: The parade will be held on Saturday, March 1. We incorrectly wrote Saturday, March 2.
2 Comments
It states the parade in 2025 is likely on Saturday March 2. Saturday is March 1st so it the parade expected on Saturday March 1st or Sunday March 2nd?
Hi Arj,
The parade is expected to be held on Saturday, March 1.
There was a typo, thank you for spotting it. We will add a correction.