Sydney Mardi Gras Pride Month Line-up Just Dropped, So Dress Accordingly
Winter is no excuse to hibernate. Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras has unveiled its Pride Month 2026 line-up, three June fundraisers: an après-ski drag party, a star-studded winter rave and an anniversary trivia night. Marcia Hines and Brendan Maclean perform, Ladyhawke spins, and yes, there’s a best-dressed comp that wants your hottest ski outfit.
“Pride Month is one of the most important times in our calendar,” said Mardi Gras CEO Jesse Matheson. June marks the anniversary of the first Mardi Gras on 24 June 1978, and with the 50th landing in 2028, every ticket helps fund what comes next. “Ecstatica was just the beginning,” he said. Co-Chairs Kathy Pavlich and Mits Delisle say the month is about keeping the community connected to Mardi Gras year-round, beyond festival season.
Winter Violet
Mardi Gras favourite Ultra Violet returns for a winter edition at City Recital Hall, with Ladyhawke on the decks for a rare DJ set. The Kiwi pop star was once told her sexuality would ruin her career. Look at her now. Three stages, one iconic venue.
Sat 13 June, 6pm till late · City Recital Hall · From $99 · Get tickets
Après Gras: the winter Mardi Gras fundraiser
The big one. Mardi Gras takes over The Beresford for an afternoon-to-late après-ski party, equal parts cosy and completely unhinged: drag shows, a best-dressed competition, raffle prizes and DJs keeping the lodge humming until 1am. The special guests are Marcia Hines and Brendan Maclean, stars of Velvet Inferno, with Julian Hamilton of The Presets and Super Disco Club on the decks.
Sun 21 June, 3pm till 1am · The Beresford · $69 member / $59 general admission · Get tickets
Mardi Gras Trivia Night
Think you know your Mardi Gras history? Prove it. The trivia night hits Paddo RSL, across the road from Paddington Town Hall, home of the very first Mardi Gras party. Expect history rounds, drag performances and prizes for the biggest know-it-alls, all on the 24 June anniversary itself.
Wed 24 June, 7pm · Paddo RSL · $28 member / $32 general admission · Get tickets
There’s more for the makers, too. LGBTQIA+ creatives, venues and promoters can apply to join the official Mardi Gras+ Pride Month program. Browse the full line-up at the Mardi Gras Pride Month page.
Three events, one very good excuse to leave the house this winter. We’ll see you at the lodge.
