Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Grass
The Annual Sydney Gay and Lesbian
Mardi Gras occurs each year at the start of Spring, in the last days
or February or start of March.
Starting more than 20 years ago as
a gay protest march, the Parade of the Sydney Gay and lesbian Mardi
Gras has evolved into one of the Worlds big gay events that captures
the imagination of a city for one night in every year.
The spirit of the occasion has evolved
into one of celebration rather than protest, and it is a cherished experience
of all who participate and of anyone lucky enough to get a look. The
Mardi Gras atmosphere is fun and frivolous and more than half a million
spectators show up along Sydney streets to witness the parade.
The Mardi Gras Parade and Mardi Gras
Party are the culmination of the 14 days of the Mardi Gras Festival.
The final instalment in this colourful festival is indeed the Mardi
Gras Party which is enjoyed by more than 10,000 party goers at the conclusion
of the Parade. The Parade route begins in the centre of Sydney, as the
paraders congregate during the afternoon in glorious Hyde park, before
marching out down Oxford street. Over the course of the evening thousands
of paraders on floats and motorbikes and dancing feet put it on for
the cheering Mardi Gras crowds.
If you are planning to attend the
Mardi Gras Parade it is sensible to head out early to ensure a good
position, bring plenty of drinking water (raincoat if necessary) as
it will probably be a warm night, and maybe a milk crate to stand on
for a better view. Along the Parade route crowds pack the sidewalk and
even some trees, which can cause delays if trying to buy drinks or use
public toilets. Remember, once the Mardi Gras Parade starts you CANNOT
cross the line of the parade. If you need to get to the other side you
may have to go right to the end of the route, to go around or just wait
until its all over and the streets are opened again. All intersecting
streets are cut off along the Parade route and in addition to residents
cars you may find it very difficult to find a park. Extra public transport
is provided around the area to help cope with the crowds, so it might
be wise to leave the car at home especially if you are planning a night
out.
Mardi Gras accommodation along the
Parade route is at a premium, as are well placed vantage points from
which to view the Parade. There are several options for accommodation
which grant views of the Mardi Gras Parade, however these will sell
out well in advance. Over this special event time, for preferred accommodation
booking policies will likely include a minimum stay (eg 2 or 3 nights)
and cancellation fees.
Stay with one of
Sydney's friendliest hotels: Sydney's Park Lodge Hotel. It's
gay-owned and has been serving the queer community for over 10
years. Additionally, its opposite Moore Park where the Gay and
Lesbian Mardi Gras Party is held each year. |
