Written by THRIVE Health & Wellbeing Ambassador Panda Le.
What’s Mardi Gras
The Sydney Mardi Gras is one of the largest and most iconic LGBTQIA+ festivals in the world, drawing hundreds of thousands of people from across Australia and around the globe. As the biggest Pride event in Oceania, it has evolved from the annual gay rights parades that began in 1978, now celebrating diversity, equality, and inclusivity through a vibrant and powerful display of pride.
For international students, this is a unique opportunity to fully immerse ourselves in an event that brings together people from various backgrounds, cultures, and traditions. The Mardi Gras is not only a celebration of LGBTQIA+ pride but also offers a chance to experience local cuisine, customs, and history.
Events around Sydney
- Mardi Gras Party
- Held at Hordern Pavilion in Moore Park, this is the biggest LGBTQIA+ overnight party in Australasia.
- Sydney Quiet Queers Picnic – Sydney Park
- Grab your picnic rug, snacks, book, crafting supplies and join Sydney Quiet Queers for a picnic.
- Gays and Gags Comedy Festival
- Live stand up comedy shows featuring queer comedians. The show will feature two headlining comedians as well as an MC and will showcase the strong talent of the queer community in Sydney.
- Sydney Roller Derby League – Come and Try Day
- Curious about roller derby? Whether you’re a total beginner or a seasoned skater, join us for a fun and inclusive Come & Try Day! Led by Bucky (she/her), Rampage (they/them), and HoDo (any pronouns), we’ll have skates available to try and plenty of support to help you get rolling. You’ll get the chance to experience the excitement of the sport, connect with our community, and see if Roller Derby is for you, on or off skates! No experience? No problem! Come along and give it a go
- Parade
- Join hundreds of thousands of people from Hyde Park to Moore Park in free and premium ticketed viewing areas to witness the wonders of the LGBTQIA+ communities; reminding the world the beauty, power and joy that comes from freedom.
The Sydney Mardi Gras Parade is for everyone, that’s why there will be a free Accessible Parade Viewing Area (by application) that includes a free shuttle to and from public transport, low-sensory zones, flat road level access, accessible amenities and more.
For more events please visit: https://www.mardigras.org.au/events/
Events at UNSW
- 16 February
- Fair Day – Kick off day for Mardi Gras.
- 27 February
- Mardi Pardi – Party that celebrates Mardi Gras at UNSW Roundhouse.
- 28 February
- Pride Cup – Sport events competitions.
