The 2018 Parade, themed 40 Years of Evolution, involved thousands of LGBTQI+ people from all across the world. Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras CEO Terese Casu said there were more than 200 entry floats and groups.
“The participation of every single person in this year’s special anniversary Parade helped produce a dazzling display of self-expression, reflection and celebration,” Ms Casu said.
“In its fourth decade, this was our most iconic Parade yet and one that will go down in history.”
“In total there was a record 200 groups represented in the 2018 Mardi Gras Parade, sharing a stunning array of creative concepts from all walks of LGBTQI+ life. Beyond the glitter, flamboyance and satire, there were so many floats reminding us of the serious issues. Acceptance, inclusivity, diversity, respect.
“Among this year’s many floats were many paying tribute to the original Mardi Gras marchers, our 78ers, and our 40 year anniversary. Indeed over 200 78ers from all over Australia made their way to Sydney to lead the Parade train with the First Nations float.
“Marchers from all over Australia were out in force: representing the beaches around Australia with the Surf Life Savers with Pride float, showing the world the Northern Territory’s unique LGBTQI community, and celebrating the LGBTQI+ activist groups of Tasmania.”
“From a global perspective Sydney’s Indonesian community group Selamat Datang GLBTIQ brought to light the struggle for equality that people in other parts of the world face,” said Ms Casu.
As the clean up began on Sydney’s streets, many of the revelers continued to celebrate Mardi Gras at the Party, which took over several venues in Moore Park until 8am the next morning. This year’s Party was headlined by pop superstar and LGBTQI+ icon Cher and also included performances by Starley and Seann Miley Moore, and sets by international DJs The Black Madonna, Hannah Holland, Kiddy Smile and Shaun J Wright. Guests were also treated to sets by a range of local DJ talent.
The midnight community show featured 40 of Australia’s drag queens and trans Showgirls, along with Mardi Gras legend Bob Downe and 25 dancers from the local community.
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