Get ready for the first big event since the start of COVID-19 with the return of the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade in 2021.
It’s been a long time since we’ve announced news of a major, large-scale event. But in great news, Australia’s beloved celebration of pride and diversity is back in 2021. Prepare your best outfit and grab the glitter: the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade is returning on Saturday, March 6th, 2021.
But, the event will take on a new format and look in 2021. Unlike previous years, the Mardi Gras Parade won’t be hitting the streets of the inner city. Instead, the 2021 parade will be heading to the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) for a seated event. Expected to draw crowds of up 23,00 audience members, this COVID-safe event enables community groups to unite for an extravagant show of pride and passion.
In 2021, the theme of the event is ‘RISE’, delivering a powerful message of love, compassion, respect, and understanding in the wake of the challenge and hardship 2020 has presented. While the parade won’t be taking over Oxford Street as we’ve seen in years gone by, the 2021 Parade will still see outlandish costumes and epic props taking over the SCG for a night of colourful celebration.
“Mardi Gras has always been the epitome of creative expression through art and culture; two things severely impacted by COVID-19 this year. So it was important to Mardi Gras that we rise to the occasion and to give the community the creative platform to express their pride to the world. The 2021 Parade may look different to how it has been in the past, but we feel very lucky to be able to give this opportunity to our communities during these times,” tells Mardi Gras CEO, Albert Kruger.
Plus, the Mardi Gras will be developed into a year-long program of events (known as ‘Always On’), with more opportunities for queer performance, content and events throughout 2021. Kruger explains the aim of this extended program is to highlight social injustice and support major campaigns, and support community and grassroots organisations year-round.
More details about Mardi Gras’ additional events (such as the popular Fair Day) are currently being planned and more details will be shared in the coming weeks.
Tickets for the 2021 Parade at the SCG (Saturday, March 6th) are on sale now ($20 per adult, $50 for groups of four, and $15 for children under 15 and concession). Find out more and secure your spot here.