Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade
About This Event
On 24 June 1978, a night-time street march in Sydney ended with police attacks and 53 arrests. The marchers, now known as the 78ers, still walk near the front of the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade every year. This parade is a long night procession of floats, dance troupes, and community groups that takes over Oxford Street.
It starts at dusk and runs into the late evening, heading up Oxford Street from the city end, turning at Taylor Square into Flinders Street, and finishing via Moore Park Road. Dykes on Bikes roar off first, followed by First Nations marchers and the 78ers. You can watch from the kerb for free, but get to Taylor Square early - it's the most popular spot, and it fills up hours ahead. If you've got kids, the corner of Short and Flinders Streets is calmer. For a guaranteed view, Mardi Gras sells seated and premium ticketed areas, including bleachers on Flinders Street and a raised club deck at Taylor Square.
The official Mardi Gras Party, held at the Hordern Pavilion in Moore Park, was cancelled for 2026 due to financial losses. CEO Jesse Matheson says it'll return in 2027. When tickets go on sale, they're sold through the official Mardi Gras website, with members getting first access. They'll go fast.
The 48th parade ran on Saturday 28 February 2026, with around 10,000 marchers on 160 to 170 floats, and an estimated 250,000 spectators. The 2027 parade is set for Saturday 6 March 2027. If you're planning to attend, book accommodation in Darlinghurst, Surry Hills, or Paddington early - rooms within walking distance go quickly.
Where to stay during Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade
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