As ‘Momentum’ builds for the 2016 Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Season, Festival Organisers have announced ahead of the Launch on Thursday 19 November, that the popular Harbour Party will not proceed in 2016.
In a statement released by Mardi Gras, it says: “As we highlighted in our recent annual report, as part of our transformation process we’ve reviewed all aspects of our programming to ensure each of our events continues to be relevant, fresh and inclusive across the community and aligned to our strategic vision. Major events including Fair Day, Parade and the biggest party of the season, MG Party, will be as spectacular and fabulous as ever.”
“Recognising the work of our community’s diverse and talented industry party operators, and to help create a more inclusive community focused festival, we are including independent party events into the upcoming Festival season. This is a significant shift from our traditional approach but we believe strongly that we must do our part to ensure our community continues to thrive in all its fabulousness.”
“For 2016, Mardi Gras will host a new, exciting and diverse collection of events at the Fleet Steps, that delivers even greater opportunities for all of our community to celebrate together. For this season we will be retiring the traditional Harbour Party event.”
“We know we are stronger together. Mardi Gras 2016 will continue to be a vibrant demonstration of the amazing power of passion and community – a reminder, as we reflect and celebrate on all that has been achieved over the years, that every small step forward joins with all the other small steps to create a global momentum for change.”
The 2016 Festival program will be announced on Thursday 19 November 2015. The Festival runs 19 February to 6 March 2016. For more information, visit: www.mardigras.org.au for details.
Image: courtesy of Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras