The Official Mardi Gras App Is Live And One Feature Could Save Your Night
The Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras has just launched its first official app, creating a new digital home for the festival and its communities. Available as a free download, the new platform combines event schedules, safety tools, and a guide to local businesses into one convenient location. It’s designed to be a useful resource during the festival season and a valuable connector all year round.
More than just a festival guide.
The app aims to extend the connection beyond the annual festival period. It serves as a permanent tool for community visibility and support. “The Mardi Gras App is more than a festival guide,” said Interim CEO Jesse Matheson. “It’s a tool that helps our communities connect, stay safe, and support each other.” This vision includes a feature that points users towards LGBTQIA+ and ally-owned businesses, helping to support the local commerce that surrounds the festival.
Everything you need in one place.
Planning your festival experience is now much simpler. The app allows you to explore official events and special offers with filters like “near me” or “tonight”. When it comes to getting around, offline maps, venue details, and transport information are included to help you manage logistics, especially on Parade night. The platform also features curated maps highlighting key areas like Oxford Street, Newtown, and Surry Hills, making it easy to find and support friendly local spots.
Putting safety and accessibility first…
A core part of the app’s design is its focus on wellbeing. It includes a peer-to-peer Safety Circle feature and an emergency chat function, providing direct links to Triple Zero without storing location history. Venues listed in the app may also display safety accreditations. Accessibility is also built in, with options for adjustable text size, high-contrast viewing, and dyslexia-friendly fonts to ensure everyone can use it comfortably. “This app is a permanent home for Mardi Gras and our communities,” said Co-Chairs Kathy Pavlich and Mits Delisle. “It’s about safety, inclusion, and visibility every day of the year.”
The full program for the 2026 festival, which runs from February 13 to March 1 under the theme ECSTATICA, will be available in the app starting October 30, 2025.
You can download the app, which is now available on the App Store and Google Play.
For more info: https://www.mardigras.org.au/
