Walking under the “Welcome to Fair Day” arch at Victoria park, I stepped into a world alive with joy and colour. The park was bustling, dotted with over 300 vibrant stalls stretching as far as the eye could see.
Ceremony And Welcome
The day began with a smoking ceremony at the First Nations Circle, honouring the traditional custodians of the land, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation, on which we gathered to celebrate diverse love. The welcomes continued with messages from Lord Mayor Clover Moore and Sydney Mardi Gras CEO Jesse Matthews, wishing everyone a happy Fair Day and setting a welcoming tone for the day.
Music, Movement And Celebration
From there, the energy only built. I loved wondering through the fair, where every stall felt enticing, with offerings ranging from delicious foods, to arts and crafts, to sports clubs. I lost count of how many stages I passed, groovy tunes following me wherever I went. I couldn’t help but to stop for a spontaneous boogie with a smiling stranger. The Main Stage featured a Queer Fashion Takeover, drag queens pranced on the Optus Stage, and the crowd moved together on the Absolute X Dance Floor.
Flavours And Festivities
I was spoilt for choice when it came to food, with so many tempting fair treats to choose from! Various bars offered a cheeky beverage, from the Squealing Pig (where I snagged a free bucket hat; score!), to the Aperol bar complete with its own DJ, and roaming performers decked out in sparkly outfits with disco-ball heads kept the energy at a constant high.
Doggywood And Delight
Even the pooches understood the assignment at the Doggywood pageant. It melted my heart to see dogs dolled up for the occasion – I even spotted a wiener dog sporting fairy-floss-coloured wings. Seeing owners matching with their furry friends made it all the more adorable.
Creativity And Community
This fair truly had everything: sports groups, homemade art, a Trans Camp, and countless businesses proudly expressing their support for the LGBTQI+ community. Personally, I am drawn to all things handmade and creative, so I was thrilled to explore the craft section, filled with stickers, pins, candles, ceramics and jewellery. I left with an art print, a pair of glasses chains, and a pocket full of business cards from the talented makers.
Moments Of Joy
A highlight for me was the Qantas tent. The team was so cheerful, handing out cookies and pride themed fans. Inside, a DJ kept the vibes high while face painters offered a free glitter bar, so of course I got bedazzled! I was even lucky enough to snap a few photo booth pics with a fabulous drag queen.
A City Gathering
Even as grey clouds began to roll over and sprinkle the park, nothing could dull the sparkle of this event! By early afternoon, Victoria Park was brimming with visitors, with queues forming at the entrances. There was always something to see, taste, dance to or photograph.
The Spirit Of Mardi Gras Fair Day
But beyond the music and the stalls, what stayed with me the most was the feeling of belonging. Victoria Park became a safe, loving space where self-expression was celebrated in every form. Fair Day was a gathering to celebrate culture and creativity within the LGBTQI+ community. The visibility, the joy and openness felt empowering and reminded me of how beautiful and welcoming this community really is.
I found myself texting my friends telling them they simply had to come down and experience it for themselves. The playfulness and kindness radiating from everyone, from the stallholders to the visitors, was unlike anything I’ve experienced at any other market or fair. I will absolutely be back next year. Mardi Gras Fair Day was positively unforgettable.
Review and Photos by: Eleanore