February 16-28
It’s FINALLY Queer Christmas! Every Mardi Gras Sydney comes alive with events, people and PRIDE! And we hear ya, Diva - it can be overwhelming. But don’t fret let this be your gay pocket guide to ensure you have the BEST Mardi Gras ever.
WHAT’S ON
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GETTING HERE
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Getting to Universal is easy, we’re just a hop, skip and/or jump up Oxford Street in Darlinghurst. By Train go to Museum station (on the City Circle Line) and walk up Liverpool Street and the onto the Rainbow Strip (Oxford Street). Coming. Several bus routes run directly along Oxford Street and stop just a short walk from Universal. Services including the 333, 352, and 355 travel between the CBD, Bondi Junction, and the eastern suburbs. Hop off at one of the Oxford Street / Darlinghurst stops and stroll on over.
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Getting around on Parade Day can be challenging. Be aware many of the streets and stations are closed off, so the more prepared you are - the easier your night is going to be. You can walk up to Oxford Street from Central Station, but be careful and make sure you are on the correct side of the street as you cannot cross Oxford Street until after the parade. once you are on the Universal side pop up to Universal for a drink to calm those nerves.
The Parade starts around 6pm with the roaring engines of the Dykes on Bikes. There are limited bathrooms along the parade route, and it gets busy quickly so be prepared, stay hydrated and look after your mates!
MERCH
Frequently Asked Questions
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The Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras is a yearly celebration of LGBTQIA+ pride, protest, and culture, culminating in the iconic Parade along Oxford Street. Sydney comes alive with community events, parties, and performances across the city.
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The Mardi Gras Parade is on Saturday 28th of February 2026. However the Mardi Gras period begins from Fair Day on Sunday 15th of February 2026.
Expect events and activations over the two week period!
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All events upstairs at Universal over the Mardi Gras period are ticketed. Every event in the Universal Main Bar are free to enter, other than Mardi Gras night which has a $20 cover charge.
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Everyone is welcome at Mardi Gras! Universal is a proudly queer venue that celebrates diversity, self-expression, and community all year round. We have a zero tolerance policy for homophobia, transphobia or any form of anti-social behaviour.
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Universal does not take any bookings on Mardi Gras Saturday. Once the venue reaches capacity there is a short amount of space to line up.
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We are always looking for extra hands over the Mardi Gras period. Send through your CV to info@universal.sydney to apply!
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We wan’t you to feel comfortable and confident. Wear your colours, feathers & sequins. It will be a long night so we recommend comfortable, enclosed shoes.
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To enter Universal you will need valid Photo ID. Universal uses IDU Scanners at all entry points.
Anyone under 25 may be asked to produce a secondary form of ID.
FAN ME OFF, MY WRIST GOES CLICK! The Universal Divas are on display with the new Universal Diva Clack Fan.
Large Bamboo Fan
Size: 33*64cm, Length(when closed)*
Width(when open)
Material: Bamboo Handle &
Polyester Fabric