The Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras festival culminates in the renowned Sydney Mardi Gras Parade, an LGBTQI rights protest and celebration of sexuality. The parade features more than 8,500 entrants in colourful costumes and elaborate floats, who represent a community group, topical theme or political message. Parade entrants include members of Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays, the Australian Defence Force, Amnesty International Australia, Australian Marriage Equality, City of Sydney, Fire and Rescue NSW, Taronga Conservation Society and DNA (magazine) among many others.
Sydney Mardi Gras is the world's most joyous and spectacular celebration of LGBTQI pride. Sydney Mardi Gras attracts over 20,000 interstate and international visitors each year, who enjoy a diverse and exciting line-up of events as well as soaking up the atmosphere and enjoying the iconic surroundings of Sydney and New South Wales.