Meanwhile at Mardi Gras…
.Ahhhh yes it’s Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras time again and Sydney really knows how to put on a show… Around 300,000 people will line Oxford Street to watch more than 12,000 participants and hundreds of floats slide by as the sun sets.
When does Mardi Gras happen?
The parade and after-party are on this year Saturday 2 March.
Apart from the parade what’s on?
There are loads of other events happening in the run up to the weekend including the famous Mardi Gras pool party, Pub Crawl, Koori Gras, celebrating indigenous queer artists, Queer Thinking discussion panels, Queer Art After Hours at the Art Gallery of New South Wales as well as lots more fabulous celebrations.
Where does the parade go?
The parade starts at Hyde Park and runs up Oxford St past Taylor Square and down Flinders St finishing up towards the Sydney Cricket Ground.
Any tips?
With so many spectators it can be hard to get a good view and people will do anything to get a vantage point. If you have any milk crates bring them along as these are perfect to give you that extra height for better viewing.
Definitely arrive early for a good vantage point remembering that it’s the busiest closest to the start of the parade especially around Taylors Square so if you don’t mind going that little bit further it can be quieter towards the end of the parade near the Entertainment Quarter.
There’s also paid spectator areas that you can pre-book but get in quick because they are popular!
What else should I know?
Remember, you can’t cross the Parade route so if you decide to meet up with a mate and they’re on the other side of Oxford St you’re going to have to make a big detour to rendezvous.
Public transport will also be affected by the road closure so check this before you leave and make sure you leave more time than usual.
Where’s the best photo opp?
During the parade anywhere with a view of the action will be a winner. If you’re looking for a great pic outside the parade we recommend checking out the newly opened rainbow pedestrian crossing close to Taylor Square which will make a great insta snap.
Is there an after party?
Um YESSSS of course there is!! The Mardi Gras after-party is HUGE with 12,000 people partying straight after the parade and into the wee hours across multiple venues at the Entertainment Quarter. There will be performances from PNAU, the Scissor Sisters’ Jake Shears and Dancing with the Stars’ Courtney Act.