Dust off the dancing shoes, the world-famous Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade is set to take over the harbour city on Saturday, 4 March 2017. With more than 100,000 spectators expected to line the parade route, Destination NSW reveals some of the best vantage spots and parties for visitors to join in all of the festivities.

This year the Mardi Gras Parade will feature more than 190 floats and 12,000 members of the LGBTQI community who are expected to march.

Destination NSW Chief Executive Officer Sandra Chipchase said, “Mardi Gras is one of the jewels in the Sydney events calendar crown and is a celebration of our State capital’s amazing support for diversity.

“Attracting over 42,000 international and domestic visitors each year, the Mardi Gras Parade is one of the greatest public celebrations in the world. I encourage people to arrive early and get your spot to take in the best of this dazzling spectacle.”

Plan ahead for your best Mardi Gras celebration with Destination NSW’s round up of some of the best Sydney spots and parties along the parade route.

BEST VANTAGE SPOTS ALONG THE PARADE ROUTE:

All vantage spots are accessible viewing areas. Visit the Official Mardi Gras Site to register for an accessible viewing bay at the parade.

  • TAYLOR SQUARE, CORNER OXFORD & FLINDERS STREET
    Located near the start of the parade on the corner of Oxford and Flinders Street, this vantage point is one of the most popular viewing areas. With expansive views of the parade weaving up Oxford Street, it’s sure to fill up quickly! Get in early to secure your spot.A dedicated drop-off and pick-up zone on Forbes Street is in close proximity to this site making it easily accessible.
  • CORNER SHORT AND FLINDERS STREETS
    One of the best vantage points to catch a view of the parade along Flinders Street as it heads down towards the finish. Less crowded than the more popular Taylor Square site, this area is suitable for families with kids.

    Limited parking will be available on Short Street. Please note that parking spaces are very limited and will be assigned after a case-by-case reviewal.

NOT-TO-BE-MISSED PARADE PARTIES:

  • Parade Sideshowtickets are for the classy diva, with exclusive access to bars, food stalls, live screens, and bathrooms. While Grandstand seats are sold out, General Admission tickets which allow access to the Standing Area are still available. Prices start from $61
  • Stonewall Hotel is hosting a VIP event from 6.30-8pm with canapes, drinks and the parade shown on screens. Prices start from $59.
  • The Oxford Hotelis hosting a Mardi Gras viewing party from 7pm which is limited to 150 people. For $109 you’ll get a great spot to watch the parade, champagne on arrival and an array of canapes.

Once the glitter has settled and the final parade float has crossed the finish line, pack up your sparkle and continue to celebrate at the Official Mardi Gras Party. The hottest ticket of the year, every year, the Official After Party is a glittery celebration and the largest LGBTQI party in the Southern Hemisphere.

Second release tickets are on sale now at $165.70.

POST PARADE RECOVERY:

While Saturday night will undoubtedly be a night to remember, Sydney also offers the ultimate postparade hangouts and activities to help keep your après Mardi Gras Parade glow shining bright the morning after.

  • Sydney’s weather is on a hot streak and is expected to continue right through to Mardi Gras Parade week. Make the most of the sun and relaxation and head down to Bondi Beach post parade for a quick dip. Afterwards, wander up to Hall Street for a bite to eat at Bondi Hardware, or continue enjoying the picturesque outlook with a drink at local Sunday session hotspot, The Bucket List
  • Wanting something a bit more relaxing? Try a cruise on a Sydney Ferry between Circular Quay and Manly, or out to Watson’s Bay. Sit back and watch the city skyline go by while taking in sweeping views out to sea and back towards the Harbour Bridge, or stop off for fish and chips and Sydney rock oysters at any of these iconic Sydney coastal locations.

Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade starts at 7pm on Saturday 4 March 2017.

ENDS

Download a PDF version of this media release (PDF 409kb)

More information on Sydney and visit www.sydney.com For Mardi Gras Parade information and tickets, visit www.mardigras.org.au

Kelly Evans
Destination NSW
P: 02 9931 1462 E: kelly.evans@dnsw.com.au

Image(s) available for download: