What can you expect for Sydney’s 2017 Mardi Gras?

It’s human nature to constantly strive for bigger and better. When it comes to celebrating lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQI) rights, you can expect Sydney’s 2017 Mardi Gras to be the best party it’s ever been.

Held from February 17 to March 7, this much-anticipated two-week-long celebration is one of the hottest events in Sydney each year. Not only are all the locals eager to throw on colourful, flamboyant outfits, but it’s a celebration that also attracts thousands upon thousands of people from all over the world. After all, it’s a chance to bathe in the vibrant, electric mood of festive party animals whilst basking in the serene views of the Sydney harbour itself.

At The Macleay Hotel, we’re open to accommodating guests who are keen to join this eventful time. Make sure you book your room well in advance to ensure a central spot in the midst of Sydney. Here’s what to expect.

Do you have your outfit and accommodation sorted for Mardi Gras this year?

Fair Day – February 19

Kicking off the LGBTQI celebrations is Fair Day. There’s day-long entertainment that’s usually held in Victoria Park, but rumours are that this year, Fair Day has danced on over to Camperdown Memorial Rest Park.

Either way, you’ll definitely want to stay somewhere central to avoid the traffic, as over 80,000 attend this annual event each year! You’ll have your usual array of delicious international food, local crafty goods and main stage entertainment.

It’s free entry, but do pop in a gold coin donation if you so wish.

Pool party – February 27

On this Monday, the ever-popular pool party commences. You’ll feel like you’re in Florida, languishing in one of Sydney’s most luxurious pools while soaking up the sun.

Unfortunately, the tickets for this pool party have already sold out (bummer, you’ll just have to come back next year!), but that doesn’t mean you miss out on a slice of sun! You can rest assured that you’re not the only one not attending, so hit up a local coastline like Bondi Beach to dance away your worries with the hundreds of others that didn’t get tickets either.

You may have missed out on the pool party, so join a beach one instead.

Queer Art After Hours – March 1

Over in the Art Gallery of NSW, you’ll not only find a bar, pop-up performances and music, but art lovers will also get to view Andy Warhol’s finest creations. It’s a free event, and starts at 6 o’clock in the evening, so get your party hat on and enjoy some artful culture.

Mardi Gras Parade, Sideshow and Party – March 4

March 4 is the day it all happens. Let’s hope you’ve had enough sleep these past few days, because you will definitely be drawing on your reserves!

The parade commences at 7p.m., and of course, is bound to be the best one yet. There’s glitter galore, fabulous outfits and entertainers of all sizes, shades and orientations. The only aim is to bring joy in the face of equality.

With over 10,000 people expected to attend, you may want to avoid the crowds for a little extra legroom. The Mardi Gras parade sideshow allows you to grab tickets for a reserved viewing spot to enjoy the parade. You’ll also get exclusive access to bars, food stalls and live screening of the procession.

When the clock ticks over to 10p.m., it’s time to party! Expected to run until 8a.m. the next morning, you’ll see numbers of people hit the 12,000s easily. The lineup for entertainment includes many talented DJs and at least two sets of famous twins – Tegan and Sara, and also the dazzling Veronica sisters!

It’s all happening down in Sydney – where will you stay?

Laneway – March 5

Finish off Mardi Gras in style by attending shows by the hottest music artists in Laneway. It’s a street party that’ll have at least one artist you’re keen to see live, so make sure you get in early to grab a ticket.

Of course, don’t miss out on any action by staying in the heart of the city. If you need a place to rest your weary feet, contact us at Macleay Hotel today.