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Sydney Mardi Gras Axes Iconic After-Party
4 Feb
Summary
- The traditional Mardi Gras after-party has been cancelled this year.
- Rising costs have made the party financially irresponsible to host.
- Organisers are exploring a small-scale celebration instead.
The traditional after-party, a highlight of the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras, has been cancelled for the upcoming 48th edition of the festival. This decision stems from significant financial challenges, with the organisation citing rising production and infrastructure costs as making the event financially irresponsible.
Chief executive Jesse Matheson stated the cancellation was heartbreaking but necessary to safeguard the festival's future. The party, which has historically featured major international artists, has incurred deficits since 2020 and was deemed more expensive to deliver than the parade and Fair Day. Organisers are considering a smaller-scale celebration to mark the end of the parade.
Despite the party's cancellation, the Mardi Gras parade is set to proceed as scheduled, with expanded viewing areas along Oxford and Flinders streets. This decision has prompted mixed reactions, with some supporting the focus on the parade and local venues, while others express concern over the financial viability of such a prominent event.
