Mardi Gras has grown to be one of the major events in the Sydney calendar. Traditionally, Mardi Gras refers to Shrove Tuesday or the French translation "Fat Tuesday" which symbolises the start of lent and is marked by feasting, celebrations and gluttony. In contrast to the traditional religious festival, Sydney put it's own twist on things in 1978 where a group known as the Gay Solidarity Group took to the streets, peacefully marching during the day and organising a street parade for the evening.
Today the Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras is held over several weeks, culminating in a parade that attracts more than 200,000 participants and spectators. Do not miss out on coming to see it!
This year the festival commences on Friday 14th February and can be enjoyed right up until Sunday 1st March.
The survival and success of Mardi Gras represents a remarkable and defining change in public attitudes.
The theme of Mardi Gras changes annually, often reflecting the current issues of the day and even encouraging marginalised groups to join the larger family of supporters. We LOVE the theme for 2020... WHAT MATTERS!
Please use this year as an opportunity to think about WHAT MATTERS to you and your community.
We're so excited about the parade which takes place on Saturday 29th February from 19:30 - 23:30. The best place to see all the action is from Oxford Street or Flinders Street - see you there!
Sydney is hosting an endless array of events please see the official website below:
While the Mardi Gras is a celebration it is important to remember that it is still a protest. Here is a little more detail on the origins of the Sydney Mardi Gras:
We hope to see you there! Remember if you need accomodation we've got you covered at Manly Designer Studios 😉