Mardi Gras Parade 

When: 28 February 2026 

Join hundreds of thousands of people from Hyde Park to Moore Park as over 200 floats and 12,000 marchers bring the Mardi Gras Parade to life. As always, the parade will be led by the beloved 78ers float, First Nations LGBTQIA+SB communities and the thunder of the Dykes on Bikes. 

The parade is the biggest event of the festival and explores the theme ‘ecstatica’. There are free viewing areas all along Oxford Street, as well as premium viewing spaces, accessible areas and ticketed spaces. 

Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade 2023, Sydney

More exciting events 

There are plenty of other events to enjoy across the city throughout the festival, including ice hockey, drag queen figure drawing, Oxford Street walking tours, roller derby and daytime dance parties. Key celebrations include: 

Mardi Gras Film Festival 

When: 12 – 26 February 

Be inspired by outstanding LGBTQIA+ cinema from around the world as the 33rd Mardi Gras Film Festival lights up screens across Sydney. Alongside film premieres, audiences can enjoy panel discussions and networking events. 

Ultra Violet 

When: 13 February 2026 

Dance at Ultra Violet as sapphic legends take over City Recital Hall’s iconic auditorium and grand foyer, transforming it into a lush dreamscape celebrating the creative power of women and gender-diverse artists. This night features DJ Gemma, Yolanda Frost, Jacqui Cunningham and many more.

Fair Day 

When: 15 February 2026 

Returning to Victoria Park, Fair Day will bring together every corner of the LGBTQIA+ community in a rainbow extravaganza. Enjoy a camp canine pageant, disco diva karaoke, drag king games, a queer fashion runway, as well as food, retail and community stalls. 

Oxford Street Fair, Sydney

Mardi Gras Debate 

When: 19 February 2026 

Debating whether heterosexuality is a cult, two teams will interrogate societal status quo at the State Library of NSW during the Mardi Gras Debate. This year’s debaters will be Dylin Hardcastle, Jess Hill, Benjamin Law, Maeve Marsden, Jess McGuire and Daniel Nour, adjudicated by Yumi Stynes. 

Laugh Out Proud 

When: 20 February 2026 

Get ready to giggle with comedians and queer legends as they take to the stage at Enmore Theatre for Laugh Out Proud. Get your tickets quick - this comedy night has sold out for the last six years. 

Oxford Street Fair, Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras 2023

Mardi Gala Ball 

When: 24 February 2026 

Dress to impress and feast at Mardi Gala Ball, a brand-new event at Walsh Bay Arts Precinct that is sure to be fabulous. A table will stretch across the city, inviting everyone to take a seat and share in the joy of being together, while raising funds for future festivals. 

Queer Art After Hours 

When: 25 February 2026 

The Art Gallery of NSW will keep its doors open late for Queer Art After Hours with DJ sets, installations and performance art at a night celebrating LGBTQIA+ culture. 

Laneway 

When: 1 March 2026 

The Beresford and Hill Street transform into one glorious, glitter-slicked playground as Laneway pumps out a cocktail of house, disco, and pure chaos to thousands of joyous dancers. In 2026, this famous street party will feature Nadine Coyle, DJ Paul Heron, Amanda Louise and many more. 

Wonder Mumma Walking Tour in Oxford St, Sydney

For a comprehensive list of all events, check out the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras 2026 Festival Program.