Your Ultimate Mardi Gras Guide is Officially HERE

It’s happening, everyone. It’s HAPPENING. Mardi Gras is officially here and oh my lord are we ready for gay Christmas. It’s time to whip out those feather boas, strap on those platform heels and slather on that glitter. The most wonderful time of the year is here, and boy are we ready for it.

Now, aside from the very obvious Mardi Gras parade happening this Saturday night from 7pm, there’s also a heap of queer-friendly things to do in Sydney all week. From drag bingo, to comedy shows, to yum cha, the girls, gays and theys have seriously got this down pat.

Alright, all set? Here’s our pick for the top Mardi Gras events happening in Sydney this week.

Queer Art After House

Image: Art Gallery of NSW

Art After Hours has become a longstanding staple of the Art Gallery of NSW, and this week, they’re bringing it back with a Mardi Gras twist. From 5pm on Wednesday, the gallery will be keeping its doors open til late for a LGBTQIA+ rendition. Think drag and draw art classes, queer performances, DJs and installations across both buildings. Perfect for those oh-so-cultured.

WHEN: Wednesday 26 February, from 5pm
WHERE: Art Gallery of NSW
HOW MUCH: Free but ticketed
CHECK IT OUT HERE.

Keg & Brew Drag Bingo

Image: Supplied

If you’re looking to keep the festivities going after Saturday’s parade, look no further than the weekly drag bingo evening hosted by Keg & Brew in Surry Hills. Kicking off at 7pm every Tuesday, Kevininthecity and Mynx Moscato will be slaying the house down while you play to win. You won’t need to buy a ticket, but you will need to book a table if you want to get in on the action.

WHEN: Every Tuesday, from 7pm
WHERE: Keg & Brew, Surry Hills
HOW MUCH: Varies
CHECK IT OUT HERE.

Mardi Cha at Lucky Prawn

Image: Delicious

Lucky Prawn has quickly become one of our Marrickville favourites recently, and this week marks no exception. It’s affordable, it’s cool, and it’ll have you believing you’re at Merivale’s Good Luck Restaurant without spending an arm and a leg. This Sunday, they’re also hosting a Mardi Cha recovery special featuring Jackie Daniels and a whole long of siu mai. And when I come to think of it, it’s kind of all my favourite things in one place.

WHEN: Sunday 2 March, from 11am
WHERE: Lucky Prawn, Bob Hawke Beer & Leisure Centre Marrickville
HOW MUCH: Varies
CHECK IT OUT HERE.

Queen’s Cross Hotel Parade Day Party

Image: Happy Mag, Dani Hansen

Darlinghurst institution, Kings Cross Hotel, is rebranding to ‘Queens Cross Hotel’ this weekend ahead of the Mardi Gras parade. And naturally, they’re also hosting pre-game to end all pre-games. Think five levels, jaw-dropping performances and cocktail specials. Because what could possibly go wrong with that?

WHEN: Saturday 1 March
WHERE: Kings Cross Hotel, Darlinghurst
HOW MUCH: Varies
CHECK IT OUT HERE.

Mardi Gras Big Gay Brunch

Image: The Rook

Any seasoned Mardi Gras-goer will tell you that when it comes to Parade Day, the party starts early. So consider this your sign to book a table at The Rook, who’s hosting a rooftop drag brunch extravaganza alongside Bettie Blackheart. For $79 per person, you’ll score a 6-course feast, two hours of bottomless bubbles and access to a DIY mimosa bar. I genuinely can’t think of a better way you’d start off the day.

WHEN: Saturday 1 March, 2.30pm and 4.30pm
WHERE: The Rook, Sydney CBD
HOW MUCH: $79 per person
CHECK IT OUT HERE.

Mardi Gras Mic Drop at The Winery

Image: Supplied

If you’re looking for a spot of comedy this week, look no further than The Winery’s mic drop night happening this Friday. For just $15 a ticket, you’ll score a free drink on arrival, plus a two-hour show from four different drag kings and queens. I mean, this is dinner and a show on a whole different level.

WHEN: Friday 28 February
WHERE: The Winery, Surry Hills
HOW MUCH: Tickets are $15
CHECK IT OUT HERE.

Mardi Gras Parade

Image: Mardi Gras

Obviously, we’re saving the best til’ last. The one, the only, the Mardi Gras Parade. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran, or a first timer, it’s imperative that you come prepared for this one. Seriously, it’s like Sydney on New Year’s Eve if everyone was on amyl and wearing something fluffy, sparkly or baring. The crowds get busy early, so if you’re looking to snag a prime position, our best advice is to get there in the afternoon. The parade kicks off at 7pm and will run until approximately 10.30pm, which is when most people will try and fail to get into a nearby Oxford street gay bar.