Australia’s LGBTQIA+ community is vibrant, diverse, and deeply woven into the cultural fabric of the nation. From glittering parades to grassroots festivals, pride events across the country offer travellers a chance to connect, celebrate, and explore the inclusive spirit of Australia.
PrideFEST: Perth’s Coastal Celebration
Perth’s answer to Mardi Gras comes in the form of PrideFEST, held each November and organised by Pride WA. The festival features a lively night-time parade through Northbridge, community workshops, art exhibitions, and Fairday, a family-friendly event with food, music, and market stalls. The festival brings together locals and visitors alike, creating a welcoming space for all identities.
Regional Pride Events in Western Australia
Beyond Perth, Western Australia hosts a growing number of regional pride festivals. Albany Pride offers a multi-day celebration in the Great Southern, while Broome Pride brings colour and connection to the Kimberley. Pilbara Pride in Port Hedland and Goldfields Pride in Kalgoorlie highlight the importance of visibility and inclusion in remote communities. Busselton’s Pride Wellbeing Festival focuses on mental health, creativity, and connection.
Sydney Mardi Gras: A Global Icon
Held annually in February and March, the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras is one of the world’s most iconic LGBTQIA+ events. The parade down Oxford Street draws hundreds of thousands of spectators and participants, celebrating diversity with dazzling floats, costumes, and performances. The festival also includes film screenings, talks, and community events across the city.
Other Pride Festivals Around Australia
Australia’s pride calendar is packed with events from coast to coast. Melbourne’s Midsumma Festival runs for three weeks each summer, blending art, performance, and activism. Adelaide Feast Festival offers a mix of cabaret, comedy, and cultural showcases. Brisbane Pride hosts a riverfront march and Fairday, while Hobart’s TasPride brings warmth and colour to Tasmania’s capital.
Travelling with Pride
Whether attending a major city parade or a regional celebration, LGBTQIA+ travellers will find Australia to be a welcoming and inclusive destination. Pride events offer more than entertainment, they foster connection, visibility, and community resilience. For those planning a trip, Absolutely Australia provides guides, stories, and resources to help travellers experience the country through a lens of authenticity and celebration.
