GRAMMY NOMINATED ARTIST ADAM LAMBERT HEADLINES 2024 SYDNEY GAY AND LESBIAN MARDI GRAS WITH OVER 150 ARTISTS ANNOUNCED

Mardi Gras Party

Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras 2024 is set to surpass all expectations, presenting a colossal line-up of over 150 performers across the Festival’s key events. This year's festival brilliantly showcases an array of global stars, comedians, drag and performance artists, and top-tier international and local DJs, reflecting the rich diversity and dynamic energy of the LGBTQIA+ community.

International superstar Adam Lambert will lead the Mardi Gras Party, headlining the Hordern Pavilion, supported by the iconic Ultra Naté, famed for her hit 1997 track “Free. “Finally” queen anthem powerhouse CeCe Peniston will command the Forecourt stage. Electric sensation Slayyyter brings an exclusive Australian performance to the iconic Bondi Beach Party, joined by a truly stacked line-up of international DJs. Additionally, a special guest performer, whose identity can’t be revealed until mid-February, is poised to join this stellar line-up. Completing this diverse roster, Aussie favourites Cub Sport and MAY-A will delight fans at Laneway and Ultra Violet respectively, adding to the festival's dynamic and eclectic mix of music and entertainment.

Check out the line-up for each event below:

MARDI GRAS PARTY

Prepare to be devoured by debauchery at the Mardi Gras Party, an adult playground spanning six distinct venues, each pulsating with its own unique vibe and line-up. This colossal event features 10 hours of non-stop entertainment, drawing in over 10,000 people and showcasing over 50 artists in a hypnotic fusion of house, techno, pop, electronica, nu-disco, club, and R’n’B.

The Hordern Pavilion adopts a grunge warehouse energy this year, offering contemporary, Chicago, and vocal house. Headlined by the sensational Adam Lambert, the venue also welcomes the talents of Ultra Naté, ONYX, Brett Austin, Patrick Mason (GER), DJ Monki (UK), and Mark Alsop, setting the stage for a night of immersive house beats.

The Forecourt is an open-air haven for vocal house, pop, and nu-disco lovers, featuring an exclusive Australian performance by headliner CeCe Peniston. This venue will keep party-goers dancing till sunrise with Keiynan Lonsdale, Miss Katalyna, Shigeki (JPN), Bobby Blanco (UK), SGT Slick, and Ebstar.

Liberty Hall delves into the darker realms of techno, tech-house, world music, and electronica, reminiscent of a Boiler Room setting. This space will feature music by DJ Naian, Lisa May, AK Sports (US), Jennifer Loveless (GER), Marsh Long and Chela.

The Big Top offers a nostalgic escape with 90s and 00s club classics, creating a fun, house party pre-drinks atmosphere. Here, DADSMAYO, Charlie Villas, Mary Kiani, Alan Thompson, and Kate Monroe and GI Jode will bring back beloved musical memories.

Watson’s is all about classic divas, disco, and retro hits, perfect for those looking to groove to timeless tunes. The line-up includes Diva Cups, Mama de Leche, Dyan Tai, DJ Anvi, Sexy Galexy and a royal entourage of Drag Kings.

Amidst the electrifying dance floors, Mary’s EQ and The Entertainment Quarter will provide food trucks, bars, and chill zones, offering a serene retreat for party-goers to refuel and relax.

BONDI BEACH PARTY

Bondi Beach Party

Bondi Beach Party, the biggest party of the 2024 Sydney Mardi Gras Festival, is poised to electrify the iconic sands of Bondi Beach. This Festival favourite, hosting 15,000 revellers, is not just a party but a showcase of exclusive Australian performances from some of the world's most renowned international club DJs and pop icons.

Pop phenomenon Slayyyter (USA) is set to 'make waves' with her Australian exclusive performance, bringing her infectious beats to the world’s most famous beach. Adding to this exclusive line-up are celebrated global DJ’s like Jay Jay Revlon (UK), Lagoon Femshaymer (UK), and Corey Craig (US) each offering exclusive performances that won’t be seen anywhere else in Australia, the stage will also be graced by Josh Harrison (UK),

Local favourites Tyoow, Mama de Leche, and Beth Yen (ACT) will amplify the atmosphere, ensuring the party vibes resonate as the sun sets on this iconic global landmark.

FAIR DAY

As the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Festival 2024 ignites, Fair Day leads the charge on Sunday, 18 February, with a kaleidoscope of celebrations at Victoria Park. The free community event features a rich tapestry of activities, from the dynamic First Nations Circle and the beloved Doggywood pageant to the innovative Trans Camp and the lively Karaoke Cave.

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 the dynamic energy of Melissa Tkautz, the cast of hit musical & Juliet, and the captivating beats of LION, as well as a special Sissy Ball showcase. To cap it off, the Main Stage will feature legendary performances from Paul Capsis and Royston Noell, with DJ Nate keeping the energy high as the sun sets.

The Sun Stage and ABSOLUT X DANCEFLOOR, along with the Little Creatures Garden Bar, promise an eclectic mix of performances and music with DJ’s like James Alexandr, Wondermama, Joelby and Alex Dugan, ensuring that every corner of Victoria Park pulsates with the spirit of Mardi Gras.

ULTRA VIOLET

Ultra Violet transforms the National Art School into a vibrant celebration exclusively for LGBTQIA+ women. Headlined by the electrifying MAY-A, this Sydney Mardi Gras edition is curated by Sveta Gilerman and Jess Hill. The event boasts a stellar line-up including Estée Louder, DJ Sveta, Gemma, Kinky D (UK), BVT, Jacqui Cunningham, Mirasia, Kilimi, and more.

LAUGH OUT PROUD

Laugh Out Proud

Laugh Out Proud returns to the Enmore Theatre for a fifth year of side-splitting humour. This much-anticipated comedy gala, hosted by Zoë Coombs Marr, features a line-up of queer comedy stars including Aurelia St Clair, Wandi Cao, Steven Oliver, Michelle Braiser, Eli Matthewson (NZ), Bob Downe, and AJ Lamarque. Get ready for an uproarious evening with some of the community's most beloved and emerging comedic talents.

SISSY BALL

Sissy Ball, the grandest vogue ball in the Southern Hemisphere, takes over Sydney Town Hall with a night of drama and flair. Curated by the Godmother of Australian ballroom, Kilia Pahulu, this event features iconic figures like Jack Mizrahi (US) as commentator, and an esteemed panel of judges including Legendary Tamiyah 007 (USA), Joel Bueno (USA), Steva 007 (NZ), and Daniielle Juicy Gorgeous Gucci (USA). DJs MikeQ (USA) and Neesha set the rhythm for an unforgettable celebration of ballroom excellence.

HOT TRANS SUMMER

Hot Trans Summer, a ground-breaking addition to the Sydney Mardi Gras calendar, is a unique celebration curated by and for the trans and gender diverse community. This festive gathering aboard the luxurious Glass Island features an all-trans and gender diverse line-up with DJs Neesha Alexander, Yvngcweed, and Victoria Anthony and performers Fetu Taku, Bluberry Bakla and Willow Ick creating a safe, affirming, and vibrant space for everyone to bask in the Sydney summer sun.

PARADISO POOL PARTY

Paradiso Pool Party

Dive into the vibrant Bondi vibes at the Paradiso Pool Party, a sun-drenched gathering at the iconic ivy Pool Bar. This global event features a spectacular line-up of DJs and performers, including Beth Yen, Enn, DJ Dolly Llama, Haylee Maree, DJ Sveta, Axl Rod, Rocky Stallone, Keep Cup, Les Beaux La Fierce, Simonne Cooper, and Bede Nash. Gather the crew for a cocktail by the cabana and welcome the second week of the Festival with open arms and dancing feet.

KAFTANA POOL PARTY

Kaftana Pool Party, the most fabulous event of the Sydney Mardi Gras Festival, promises a dazzling display of camp and glamour. Transforming into a paradise of fab frocks and locks, the party features drag artists, cabaret performers, and divine DJs including Texas Gold, Miss Rosie Rivette, Sideboob, DJ Hamo, DJ Jonny Hawkins, Fuzzy, and 3awadi. Join us for a day where the palm trees sway, cabana cocktails flow, and the best dressed are celebrated in style.

PARADE VIEWING AREAS

Experience the Sydney Mardi Gras Parade like never before in the Parade Viewing Areas, where engaging hosts and DJs create an electrifying atmosphere. The Diamond Club area comes alive with the beats of DJ Colin Gaff and GI Jode, ensuring a high-energy backdrop. Meanwhile, hosts Kevininthecity and Faustina Agolley at Sideshow and John Glover and Rosie Piper at Club Cindy to keep the crowd entertained with their vibrant commentary, infectious energy, and plenty of laughs, making each viewing spot a uniquely memorable part of the parade experience.

LANEWAY

Laneway

Laneway, the renowned Festival finisher, has kick-ons sorted with a final celebration that transforms The Beresford and spills out onto Hill Street, with glittering gutter street party vibes. Headlined by the ethereal Cub Sport, Laneway takes place over three epic spaces featuring sets by some of the best including, Atomic Kiss, Amanda Louise, Dan Azzo, and Jesse Boyd.

Browse all the events online now at www.mardigras.org.au.

The 2024 Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Festival is proudly supported by Principal Partner American Express, Government Partner of the Mardi Gras Festival, the City of Sydney, and Strategic Sponsor the NSW Government through its tourism and major events agency, Destination NSW.
* Matt Fraser at matt@originalspin.com.au