Wow! Only at Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras would you see a costume like this one! Earlier this week I shared what made this event a must-see for any traveler, regardless of their identity. Today, I’d like to share 11 tips to watching the parade…

1. Watch the Parade

Though Mardi Gras lasts from mid-February to mid-March, the capstone to the whole celebration is the Mardi Gras Parade. If there’s one, and only one event you should plan your visit around, it’s the parade (But with over 50 other events to choose from, it’s worth attending a few).

2. Arrive Early

The question everyone asks is, “Where is the best place to watch the Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade?” I would suggest the corner of Oxford and Flinders Street, for several reasons.

1. This is where the parade is being filmed, so everyone is extra excited.
2. The area is well lit.
3. Restrooms aren’t too far away.

How early is early? Well we arrived about 2-3 hours before the actual parade start and found front row seats. We practically had out pick. Waiting is never fun, but this parade is worth it! You’ll want to get a good view. And if you choose the area I mentioned above, you’ll want to sit on the opposite side of the street from where I took this photo. Because of the median in the middle of the road, the floats stay on the left (of this photo).

If you don’t get there early, you’ll be lost in the huge crowds that quickly form.

3. Celebrate with Friends

Mardi Gras is a time to be proud, to cheer and to celebrate. The more the merrier so plan your trip with some friends. Of course you’ll make new ones while you’re down there, but it’s nice to have a memories to share afterwards with your buddies.

4. Bring Some Food

 You’ll be waiting for a long time, and the worst part is finding the perfect spot and then leaving someone behind to guard seats while you find food. Save the stress and just bring your own. There’s plenty of options along the street so grab something and take it with you.

5. Limit Your Drinking – Or Don’t

Officially, drinking isn’t allowed along the parade route. But that didn’t stop many from doing it! For approved drinking, local clubs have drink specials and parade-viewing parties, but are very crowded and have only mediocre views. Along the street alcohol isn’t permitted, but I saw many sneak a sip or two, or three, or four…

You may want to limit your intake for a little bit at least. Lines for the port-a-potties are incredibly long, you’ll have to fight crowds and narrow paths to get there and your buddies will have to fight tooth and nail to save your spot. Local businesses only allow restrooms for customers only and some close them entirely once the parade starts.

6. Be Prepared for the Unexpected

If you’ve never been to a Gay Pride Parade before, you’re in for a real treat. The gays are here to just have an awesome time. It’s a light-hearted celebration (but with an important purpose). Nonetheless, first time spectators will have bug eyes and open jaws at the sheer number of speedos, thongs, men dressing as women, women dressing as men, glitter and who know what! This is not your local, hometown parade.

So relax, let loose, soak it all in and return home with a “you won’t believe what I saw at Mardi Gras” story to your friends and neighbors.

7. Dress Up!

I’ll admit, I didn’t think about this until it was too late and I wish I had thought of it earlier. Dressing up just adds to the merriment. Find some beads, a crazy hat, sparkles, wigs, costume, whatever. Show your pride (or your support).

And on a practical side, it does get cool at night and in the event of rain, you may want a light jacket. Check the weather before you go.

8. Cheer on the Performers

The parade features 9,000 performers from all around Australia and beyond. There’s dancing, music, confetti and tons of surprises. Show them your appreciation by cheering and clapping. You might even get lucky with a hug or a kiss!

9. Enjoy the View

There’s lots of eye candy in the parade. Enjoy. Enough said.

10. Forget the Camera

As a blogger, I was eager to capture as many moments as possible with my camera. But it didn’t work out as planned. Because it’s so dark, photos without a flash appear blurry since everyone is moving so fast. And if you use a flash, photos aren’t exposed properly.

So I say that this is one of those rare times where you should just live in the moment. Forget about the camera and enjoy the parade.

11. Celebrate All Night Long

The parade takes nearly three hours. It’s long, fun, colorful and memorable. But once it’s done, the night doesn’t end there. Sydney parties all night long, into the morning at one of the largest dance parties on the planet. If dancing is your thing, be sure to find cash in your budget for the post-parade party. Stay tuned for the full report!

Have you ever been to the Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade? What tips do you have? Share by commenting.

I’ll see you out there…!

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