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Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Is Coming In Hot With Sissy Ball & More Announced!

Written by Clodagh Mangan on 4th February, 2026
Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Is Coming In Hot With Sissy Ball & More Announced!

Sydney's biggest celebration of pride and diversity is set to kick off in just over a week! The 48th Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Festival will light up the city from 13 February to 1 March 2026, inviting everyone to step into ECSTATICA - a world where joy becomes movement and celebration becomes power.

Over 20 days, Sydney will pulse with queer energy through an incredible lineup of theatre, music, parties, talks, and community events, all leading up to the iconic Mardi Gras Parade on Saturday 28 February, when Oxford Street transforms into the beating heart of LGBTQIA+ pride.

They have just announced the return of Sissy Ball for the ultimate warm-up, and you are not ready for what is to come! The biggest vogue ball in the Southern Hemisphere soars to new heights as vogue families from across the country battle it out under the regency of the Ball's continuing curator: MOTHER KIANNA LOUBOUTIN ORICCI.

Black Cherry, a trans-diverse celebration of redemption, transformation, and rebirth has just announced their lineup! Don't miss Neesha Alexander (DJ), Stevzar (DJ), Soju Gang (DJ), Ballroom Australia (Performers) and more on Sat 14 Feb.

Glitter Club has also come in hot with an epic lineup! Headlining this year's exclusive and only premium viewing point are two absolute powerhouses at the helm. DJ Dan Murphy and Est e Louder (Jess Hill). Rounding out our vibrant program will be a dynamic tribute to Kath and Kim with Carmen Geddit & Charisma Belle, as well as live entertainment from: Enchanting Energy, King Kael, Rachel Dryden, Spice Princess and Via, to keep the energy high from the first beat to the final float.


What's On?


Black Cherry 2026
Saturday 14 February 2026, 5:00 pm
The National Art School
Darlinghurst, NSW
Kaftana Pool Party 2026
Wednesday 18 February 2026, 4:00 pm
Jimmy's Rooftop
Sydney, NSW
Paradiso Pool Party 2026
Friday 27 February 2026, 7:00 pm
Marrickville Town Hall
Marrickville, Gadigal Land, NSW
Glitter Club 2026
Saturday 28 February 2026, 6:30 pm
Taylor Square
Darlinghurst, Gadigal Land, NSW

Saturday 28 February 2026, 8:00 pm
The Loft, UTS
Gadigal Land, NSW
Mardi Gras 2026 Fans
Sunday 15 February 2026
Pick up at Fair Day
Victoria Park, Gadigal Land, NSW

The Parade

On 28 February, thousands of marchers and dazzling floats will take over Oxford Street for the 49th Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade - a glittering celebration of pride, visibility, and solidarity. Accessible viewing areas on Flinders Street will ensure the Parade remains a celebration for everyone. The Glitter Club at Taylor Square will offer the most spectacular vantage point to experience the Parade up close, unfiltered and unforgettable.


Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras 2026 is more than a festival - it's a movement. This is your party. This is your power.

Tickets are movnig fast - grab yours before it's too late!


Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Festival

 Sat 14 February - Mon 2 March 2026

Various Venues Sydney, NSW





What are Collector Tickets?

Collector Tickets are not just your ordinary entry pass. They're a collectable souvenir ticket, featuring the event's own exclusive design!


How can I purchase a Collector Ticket?

Collector Tickets are only available for selected events and ticket types can be purchased directly via the event page. Events with Collector Tickets enabled will have a purple toggle - simply click the toggle on to purchase your Collector ticket, select the number of tickets you require. Then continue through the checkout process where you will be asked to insert your postal address, this will be the address where your Collector Tickets are posted to.  


An image showing collector tickets


WHAT ARE SECURE TICKETS?

Want your ticket covered in case you get sick and can't attend? Upgrade to a Secure Ticket to get covered!

Secure Tickets allow you to apply for a full refund on your order should you, or anyone in your party, be unable to attend due to an unforeseen circumstance listed in the Secure Tickets Terms and Conditions. This includes injury, illness, travel trouble and other unexpected events. Full details on what is included can be found here.


CAN I GET MY TICKETS VIA SMS?

Opt for SMS on checkout for easy access to get your tickets straight to your phone. Have easy access to your tickets - no digging through your inbox on festival morning!


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