Celebrate the 48th Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Festival from 13 February to 1 March 2026! The 2026 theme ECSTATICA invites the LGBTQIA+ community and supporters to celebrate joy, pride, creativity, diversity and connection across Sydney.

From dazzling parties and performances to community celebrations and world-famous street parades, this year’s Mardi Gras promises unforgettable moments for locals and visitors alike.

2026 Sydney Mardi Gras Festival Highlights

Experience a curated selection of the most iconic events during Sydney’s biggest celebration of pride, art and culture:

Ultra Violet – 13 February 2026
A femme-charged opening night dance and performance event setting the tone for Mardi Gras energy.

Black Cherry – 14 February 2026
A trans and gender-diverse celebration of expression at the National Art School.

Fair Day – 15 February 2026
Sydney’s biggest community gathering returns to Victoria Park with live performances, stalls, food, dogs on parade and a heartbeat of Mardi Gras spirit.

Kaftana Pool Party – 18 February 2026
A glamorous poolside event with music and summer vibes.

Laugh Out Proud – 20 February 2026
A night of sharp LGBTQIA+ comedy featuring local and visiting performers.

Paradiso Pool Party – 22 February 2026
Daytime pool party with DJs and dance.

Mardi Gala Ball – Taste the Love – 24 February 2026
An elegant dinner celebration combining gourmet dining and spirited community connection.

Queer Art After Hours – 25 February 2026
An art-filled evening celebrating queer creativity in Sydney’s galleries.

Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade – 28 February 2026
The iconic parade returns to Oxford Street with spectacular floats, performers and thousands of participants.

Glitter Club – 28 February 2026
Premium parade viewing experience at Taylor Square.

Party – 28 February 2026
One of Australasia’s largest queer dance parties, lighting up the Mardi Gras weekend.

Laneway – 1 March 2026
The festival’s official closing street party with music, dancing and celebration.

Plan Your Mardi Gras Experience

For full event listings, dates, tickets, venue info and the complete 2026 Mardi Gras Festival program, visit the official Mardi Gras website

Looking for the perfect place to stay?

Mercure Sydney offers stylish, comfortable accommodation in the heart of the city — just minutes from major Mardi Gras venues and celebrations.