This year, Sydney isn’t just hosting Mardi Gras; it’s throwing the party of the decade. With vibrant parades, outrageous costumes, and endless celebration, Sydney is gearing up for a spectacle dazzling costumes, heart-pumping beats, and a citywide rainbow explosion.
While the Mardi Gras parade will always remains the heart of the celebration, there’s so much more to dive into in 2025 beyond the floats and marching bands. The city will be alive with a series of unforgettable parties—courtesy of the incredible queer organisers who bring Sydney’s nightlife to life. Whether you’re a local or a visitor looking to join the fun, Sydney's Mardi Gras is ready to show you how to celebrate like never before, via more than 100 events, from thought-provoking panels to mouth-watering food and drink experiences. So grab your glitter, put on your dancing shoes, and let’s make this Mardi Gras one to remember!
When is Sydney Mardi Gras in 2025?
This year, Sydney Mardi Gras falls on Friday, February 14 until Sunday, Mar 2, 2025.
When is the Sydney Mardi Gras parade in 2025?
The main event of Mardi Gras is the parade. This year, the 47th annual Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade is set to take over Oxford Street, Flinders Street and Anzac Parade on Saturday 1 March 2025. You can expect over 200 floats from every corner of our communities to make their way from Hyde Park to Moore Park, from 7pm until 11pm.
Every year, the parade walks to the beat of a theme, and this year is no exception. In 2025, the parade celebrates Free To Be, a timely reminder to set your true self free.
Where to watch the Sydney Mardi Gras parade in 2025?
As always, a great vantage point for the parade is a hot commodity. Beat the crowds with tickets to a dedicated viewing area.
Other ways to celebrate Mardi Gras across Sydney in 2025
The First Nations First Light marks the official commencement of Mardi Gras celebrations, welcoming festival-goers onto the unceded and sacred Lands and honours the longest-continuous culture on the planet. First Light kicks off on February 14 at 7am, in front of the Bondi Pavillion.
The National Art School (NAS) will show Queer Contemporary: Chaosophy, a major new group exhibition in partnership with the 2025 Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras. You can catch a glimpse on show at the NAS Building 25 Project Space from 14 February – 8 March 2025.
Absolut is once again a partner of Mardi Gras and, this year, will launch the highly anticipated Club Gras Presented by Absolut X at The Ivy. On February 26, gather for a tribute to the roots of queer club culture, and a celebration of the dance floors that have long been a sanctuary for the LGBTQIA+ community. Tickets are available on the Absolut website.
The ultimate Mardi Gras brunch returns to Bar Woolloomooloo on March 1, from 11am - 1pm. Indulge in a decadent food spread and two hours of drinks, plus dance with DJ Victoria Anthony, and Drag Race Down Under season 4 finalist Freya Armani. Tickets available here.
The National Art School will come alive with Ultra Violet - Sydney Mardi Gras edition. Designed by and for LGBTQIA+ women, this is a day-to-night party of live acts, DJs and performers across two stages. Tickets are available here.
Kaftana Pool Party is back at ivy Pool in 2025 on Wednesday, February 19. Sip cocktails as you take in an array of drag, DJs and divine performers.
Laugh Out Proud is the Queer comedy festival of the year, returning on February 21 at the Enmore Theatre. Tickets are available here.
Forrester’s is hosting the official Ultra Violet recovery party, on Sunday 2 February. Head to Forrest(HER)s Ultra Violet Recovery Session for house beats, fabulous drag performances, and Four Pillars cocktails from 12-5pm. Entry is free.
Celebrate love at Darlo’s Big Drag Brunch at Taphouse on Saturday 22 February and Saturday 1 March, from 12-3pm. You'll be treated to a Chinese banquet, bottomless bubbles, and a welcome gin cocktail, plus appearances from Dominique Topp, Jackie Daniels, Fairah Nuff and Dammit Janet.
Every Saturday until March 8, The Winery will host their Mardi Gras Bottomless Brunch. For $99pp, enjoy a bottomless brunch with 90 minutes of free-flowing drinks, a shared menu, and hilarious drag queen hosts.
From Monday 24 February until 2 March, the W Sydney will host QUEER LIT, a pop-up library where guests can explore a selection of Queer stories curated by Jordan Turner, co-owner of Gertrude & Alice Café Bookstore, and former book club host. There will also be a Between The Covers event for the public on 25 February, offering an intimate evening of storytelling and connection.
Feature image by Sander Dalhuisen via Unsplash.
