The first Mardi Gras, held on June 24, 1978, was planned to mark the anniversary of the Stonewall riots in New York in 1969.
Travelling to Australia is a dream for so many people. And when you can combine that experience with an epic Pride party? It’s the icing on the cake. Get the lowdown on flight prices, prime accommodation, events, and all the adventures you can have before and after in Australia. Like, did you know there are pink lakes there? (Road trip, anyone?)
It’s looking like this global Pride event will be a celebration of epic proportions! The program runs the full spectrum of entertainment, from drag races and the world-famous Mardi Gras to human rights conferences and performances by First Nations people. Here’s a rundown of just some of what you can look forward to.
Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras
25 February
Parade commemorating the first of its kind in Sydney in 1978.
First Nations Gathering Space
23 – 28 February
Artworks and performances by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
Pride Villages
24 February – 5 March
Closed-off area around Oxford Street with performances and parties.
Mardi Gras Parade and Party
25 February
The biggest event with 200+ floats, followed by the biggest party.
Human Rights Conference
1 March – 3 March
3-day conference with inspiring panels, workshops and networking events.
Pride March
5 March
Powerful closing march by 50,000 across Sydney’s Harbour Bridge.
The first Mardi Gras, held on June 24, 1978, was planned to mark the anniversary of the Stonewall riots in New York in 1969.
The Human Rights Conference will be the largest of its kind ever held in Asia Pacific.
The Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras celebrates its 45th anniversary this year.
This global event marks the first of its kind to be hosted in the Southern Hemisphere.
The Festival will take place on the lands of the Gadigal, Cammeraygal, Bidjigal, Darug and Dharawal people.
Known as the Harbour City, Sydney is full of surprises and fun. With some of the best beaches, culture and architecture, it’s a place that everyone can enjoy: singles, couples, friends and families.
Sydney has always had a reputation for welcoming visitors of all identities and sexual preferences – as long as you have your party hat on. Start right away at any of these hangouts that are well-frequented by LGBTQ+ locals.
Stonewall Hotel bar
Ginger’s cocktail bar
Bloody Mary’s restaurant
Maggie’s restaurant
Bar Positano
The Bearded Tit bar and art space
The Bank pub
The Imperial Hotel entertainment
Red Rattler event venue
Clovelly beach
Located in Chippendale, this hotel is within a 15-minute walk of University of Technology Sydney and Crown Street. International Convention Centre Sydney and Capitol Theatre are also within 1 mile (2 km). Redfern Station is 6 minutes by foot and Sydney Redfern Station is 5 minutes.
Located in Surry Hills, this luxury aparthotel is within a 10-minute walk of Crown Street, Capitol Theatre, and Australian Museum. Hyde Park and St Vincent’s Hospital are also within 15 minutes. Museum Station is 9 minutes by foot and Capitol Square Light Rail Station is 10 minutes
Located in Darlinghurst, this hotel is within a 10-minute walk of St Vincent’s Hospital and Crown Street. Hyde Park and Australian Museum are also within 15 minutes. Kings Cross Station is only a 4-minute walk and Museum Station is 15 minutes.
Located in Potts Point, this luxury hotel is within a 10-minute walk of St Vincent’s Hospital and Crown Street. Hyde Park and Australian Museum are also within 15 minutes. Kings Cross Station is only a 3-minute walk and Edgecliff Station is 16 minutes.
Located in Darling Harbour, this luxury hotel is steps away from SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium and Wild Life Sydney Zoo. King Street Wharf and Cockle Bay Wharf are also within 10 minutes. Wynyard Station is 7 minutes by foot and Pyrmont Bay Light Rail Station is 10 minutes.
Located in Sydney Central Business District, this luxury hotel is steps away from Westfield Shopping Centre, Sydney Tower and Queen Victoria Building. Pitt Street Mall and Sydney Town Hall are also within 5 minutes. Town Hall Station is only a 5-minute walk and St. James Station is 6 minutes.
Australia is a big place – there are so many adventures waiting for you beyond Sydney. Get some ideas below on everything from family holidays to the best road trips to backpacking, beach and camping opportunities.
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