ROCK ON ! WELCOME TO SYDNEY MARDI GRAS 2025

150+ ARTISTS, BRAND NEW PARTY AND A KYLIE-THEMED RIDE: WELCOME TO SYDNEY MARDI GRAS 2025

Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras is set to make 2025 one for the history books, announcing a jaw-dropping line-up of over 150 artists across its signature events, from the iconic Mardi Gras Party to the dazzling return of Fair Day. Adding to the excitement, this year welcomes a brand-new dance party, Club Gras Presented by Absolut X, taking over ivy in the heart of Sydney’s CBD.

For those who want to keep the celebrations rolling, Sydney Mardi Gras has thought of everything. On Parade night, Kylie Minogue fans heading from her sold-out concert to the Mardi Gras Party can hop aboard the exclusive PADAM PATROL. This vibrant party bus promises a seamless transition from stadium spectacular to dancefloor delight promising her greatest hits aboard, and exclusive express entry wristbands for Mardi Gras Party ticketholders.

Whether you’re voguing at Sissy Ball, diving into the sun-soaked vibes of Paradiso Pool Party, or kicking on at Laneway, Sydney Mardi Gras 2025 promises a celebration of pride, music, and joy.

Check out the incredible artists making Sydney Mardi Gras 2025 a festival for the ages!

MARDI GRAS PARTY

The Mardi Gras Party 2025 is here to light up Sydney with a night of unparalleled energy and music. Across six incredible spaces, experience over 8 hours of world-class DJs, jaw-dropping performances, and the electric spirit of the longest running queer dance party in the country.

At the Hordern Pavilion, the already-announced iconic headliners Honey Dijon (US), Romy (UK) for an exclusive live performance in Sydney, the dancefloor with over 40 years of Mardi Gras Party legacy will feature DAWS, and the legendary DJ Paulette (UK), DAWS, Alex Taylor and a special performance from The Cast of the Mardi Gras Community Show.

Over at the Forecourt, HAYLA (UK) brings her powerhouse vocals to the stage, fresh from dominating the airwaves with her chart-topping collaborations with John Summit. Sharing the spotlight, direct from the US, is the sensational LELAND [+ Friends]. Leland is the creative genius behind RuPaul’s Drag Race’s biggest anthems, who has worked with artists like Kylie Minogue, good friend Troye Sivan, and Selena Gomez to create unforgettable hits. Joining HAYLA and LELAND is DJ Fat Tony (UK), Aussie favourites Cosmo’s Midnight, the fabulous Amanda Louise, and a captivating showcase from The Cast of the First Nations Show, the Forecourt is set to shine bright.

Liberty Hall is a haven for underground beats, featuring the genre-blending brilliance of Just Her (UK), Baby Ruin (TAS), Bria, and ballroom favourite Neesha Alexander (QLD).

Watson’s serves up disco and retro delights with the high-energy duo Jawbreakers (VIC), the always-glamorous Atomic Kiss, and DJ Hamo, keeping the nostalgic vibes alive.

Whether you’re dancing under the stars, catching iconic performances, or connecting with the community, Mardi Gras Party 2025 is the ultimate celebration of music, pride, and joy. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the magic with first and second release tickets already SOLD OUT!

FAIR DAY

After a year’s hiatus, Fair Day roars back to life in 2025, Victoria Park will be filled with the energy, diversity and joy that only Sydney Mardi Gras can deliver. The free community event sees over 70,000 people enjoy the rich tapestry of activities, from the dynamic First Nations Circle and the beloved Doggywood pageant and newcomers Trans Camp, and the lively Karaoke Cave: Dolly Disco with Hannah Conda.

The much-anticipated Drag King Games return to the Main Stage, promising a showdown of charm and talent that’s set to crown a new reigning king. The stage will also host a diverse range of artists and community groups, including Royston Noell, Sumner, the dynamic energy of Melissa Tkautz, the cast of hit musical Titanique and the captivating beats of LION, as well as a special Sissy Ball showcase. To cap it off on the Main Stage DJ Nate promises to keep the energy high as the sun sets.

The ABSOLUT X DANCEFLOOR will come alive as Absolut X celebrates its 6th consecutive year of proud partnership, honouring the diverse communities that define the past, present, and future of queer nightlife – with sets from Feisty, James Alexandr, L.O.U (VIC), and Joelby.

The Sun Stage and the Aperol Aperidisco, promise an eclectic mix of performances and music with DJ’s like James Alexandr, The Fabulous Wonder Mama, Joelby and Alex Dugan, ensuring that every corner of Victoria Park pulsates with the spirit of Sydney Mardi Gras.

BRAND NEW EVENTS: CLUB GRAS PRESENTED BY ABSOLUT X & THE OFFICIAL FAIR DAY AFTER PARTY

For those looking to kick on from Queer Art After Hours, start the Parade weekend early or after some midweek mayhem? Welcome to Club Gras, the brand new party joining the 2025 lineup, presented by Absolut X.

Club Gras will take over ivy on Wednesday 26 February and is a tribute to the roots of queer dance culture – where memories are made, friendships are forged and the energy is electric. Featuring BASHKKA (GER), CCL (GER), Jennifer Loveless (VIC) and Fried Pork Chop. Tickets are on sale now from $29 plus booking fee.

There’s no place better to kick-on after Fair Day than the official afterparty at The Beresford, presented by Absolut. With DJ sets all day from MKY, Colin Gaff, Brad James and more, and drag shows with Minnie Cooper, Charisma Belle, and Carmen Geddit, this is one party you won’t want to miss.

LAUGH OUT PROUD

Prepare for a gut-busting, side-splitting, laugh-till-you-snort kind of night because Laugh Out Proud is here to deliver! Hosting this year’s comedy extravaganza is none other than the legendary Alok (US)—a comedy powerhouse, globally celebrated poet, and unapologetic trailblazer known for their razor-sharp wit. The line-up features an all-star cast of Australia and New Zealand’s hottest queer chuckle chasers, including Alex Ward (VIC), Bronwyn Kuss (VIC), Chris Parker (NZ), Jordan Raskopoulos, Tarsh Jago (VIC), Tom Ballard (VIC), Tom Elphick, and Yasmin Kassim (WA). This is queer comedy unleashed—wild, wicked, and wonderfully hilarious!

SISSY BALL

Get your tens, tens, tens across the board ready—Sissy Ball is bringing the drama, the divas, and the beats. Get set to strut, sweat, and slay as the Southern Hemisphere’s biggest vogue ball takes over with a show-stopping line-up that’s nothing short of legendary.

Setting the ballroom ablaze with electrifying beats are Seven Angels (NL), remix master and purveyor of fresh energy in the ballroom scene, and Australia’s own trailblazer Neesha Alexander (QLD), whose sets blend QTBIPOC culture with dancefloor euphoria. Add the iconic commentary from Snookie Juicy West (USA) and the incomparable Jamaica Moana, and you’ve got a recipe for a night to remember.

The judging panel? Pure fire. With icons like Omari (USA), Danielle Gorgeous Gucci (USA), Xyza (PHL), The Legendary Bhenji Juicy Slé, and Xuella, expect nothing but expert reads, high standards, and unshakable glamour.

Sissy Ball is here to serve fierceness, fabulousness, and all the feels. Will you leave with legendary status—or get chopped? Only one way to find out.

KAFTANA POOL PARTY

Make waves at Kaftana Pool Party. Whether you’re swishing your frock like a runway queen or kicking back with a cocktail, this is the place to soak up the sun, beats, and campy vibes that only Mardi Gras can deliver.

Serving up a soundtrack of feel-good grooves is a killer DJ line-up, including Jacqui Cunningham going B2B with the magnetic Charlie Villas. But the fun doesn’t stop there—with performances by the dazzling Disco Daddies (VIC), the burlesque brilliance of Betty Bombshell (VIC), and the fabulous Aaron Manhattan. Add in electrifying sets from the bold Dyan Tai, the theatrical Tanzer (VIC), and the fierce Tash York (VIC), and you’ve got a party that’s as sparkly as your Camilla collection.

HOT TRANS SUMMER

Step aboard Sydney’s luxurious Glass Island for Hot Trans Summer, a vibrant celebration of trans and gender-diverse excellence. This is where bold beats meet breathtaking performances, all set against the stunning backdrop of Sydney Harbour.

Hosted by the incomparable Andi Climax, the event boasts an electrifying line-up of DJs and performers ready to ignite the dance floor. Musical highlights include the fierce and fabulous Miss Katalyna (VIC), the ever-iconic DJ Gay Dad (VIC), the high-energy Aysha Buffet (VIC), the sensational Mama De Leche, the powerhouse KING, and the dynamic Bebecito.

The spotlight also shines on spectacular performances by Aysha Buffet (VIC), delivering both behind the decks and on stage, and the captivating moves of Izzy Ashido. Together, they create an atmosphere of joy, empowerment, and unapologetic self-expression.

ULTRA VIOLET

Ultra Violet shines brighter than ever in 2025, transforming the National Art School into a kaleidoscope of music, performance, and empowerment. Dedicated to celebrating LGBTQIA+ women and femme excellence, this vibrant event features a stellar line-up of DJs, musicians, and performers who embody the spirit of creativity and community.

Leading the charge is the unstoppable BKLAVA (UK) and WILLO. Joining her are dynamic artists like Ayebatonye (NT), Lisa May (VIC), Chase Zera, NYXEN, and Rydeen, delivering electrifying live performances that will have everyone on their feet. On the decks, legends like Charlie Villas, GI Jode, and Mama De Leche will keep the energy pulsing with every track.

The stage lights up with the raw power of DOWNGIRL, the genre-bending talent of Dizzy Days (QLD), and the mesmerizing vibes of Lainey K and Nicole Tania, creating an unforgettable mix of music and performance art. Adding to the night’s magic are the unmissable sets from Faustina Agolley, High-low, Lauren Neko, and the campy brilliance of Diva Cups.

PARADISO POOL PARTY

Slip into your speedos and bask in the Paradiso Pool Party glow—a sun-soaked escape for those who are ready to dance, mingle, and show off those glistening tans. With beats by Hauswife (VIC), Krissy Jaman, DJ Leow, and DJ Ney (QLD), and a cheeky performance by the outrageous Camp Minister, this poolside party is all about carefree vibes and summer heat.

BLAK & DEADLY: THE FIRST NATIONS GALA CONCERT

Blak & Deadly: The First Nations Gala Concert lights up City Recital Hall with an electrifying celebration of culture and talent. Hosted by the iconic Steven Oliver, the lineup brings together ARIA award-winner Emily Wurramara, the stunning moves of Daniel Mateo, the outrageous artistry of The Huxleys, and burlesque star Kitty Obsidian. Topping it all off are the fierce Supreme Dream Girls—Josie Baker, Felicia Foxx, and Jojo Zaho.

The party kicks off with DJs and foyer entertainment before the show and wraps with Ra Ra Kick Ons featuring even more fabulous performances to be announced. Blak & Deadly is unapologetically proud, deadly glamorous, and not to be missed!

LANEWAY

When the sun rises, the glitter settles, and the party’s still pumping, Laneway is where you’ll want to be. The ultimate Festival finale, this legendary after-after party transforms Hill Street into a vibrant playground of beats, bodies, and unapologetic celebration.

With the incredible Kito, Lady Shaka (NZ), Inaya Day (US) and Mowgli May going B2B with Latifa Tee leading the charge, the line-up is stacked with unforgettable sets from, Corey Craig (US), and duos like Abby & Tyrone. Expect next-level energy from the likes of Butch Le Butch (VIC), Rocky Stallone, Loosie Grind, Raul (QLD), and more, all guaranteed to finish the festival with a bang.

Browse the full festival line-up at www.mardigras.org.au

The 2025 Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Festival is proudly supported by Principal Partner American Express, Presenting Partner Coles Group, Strategic Sponsor the NSW Government through its tourism and major events agency, Destination NSW and Government Partner of the Sydney Mardi Gras Festival, the City of Sydney.