Records crowds in excess of 45,000 are expected to congregate along St Kilda’s famous Fitzroy Street for this weekend’s annual Midsumma Pride March.
This Sunday (28 January), the annual Midsumma Pride March will celebrate its 23rd anniversary in St Kilda – solidifying and celebrating Victoria’s diverse LGBTQIA+ communities and achievements of marriage equality.
A feature event of the annual Midsumma Festival – Pride March stretches a kilometre along the length of the Fitzroy Street, and is expected to draw records crowds to watch as more than 200 groups featuring over 8,000 proud marchers celebrate community pride. Click here to view the March Order.
The campaign #BeyondYes will be the main theme of this year’s March, acknowledging the many other issues that the LGBTQIA+ communities still need to resolve in the fight for equality, such as the safety of our transgender community and our youth, particularly in areas of violence and suicide in the face of ongoing discrimination.
With so much to celebrate, new events have been introduced to the colourful parade including a special Pride March Wedding for Sue and Mel – married by celebrant Bronte Price at the Post Pride celebrations in Catani Gardens. The marriage celebrates Australia’s achievement of marriage equality.
Post Pride celebrations will follow the final marchers into Catani Gardens from 2.00pm – 7.00pm and many St Kilda bars and clubs will be open till late to continue the party of pride – view details below!
Live performances at the Post Pride celebrations include the Melbourne Gay and Lesbian Chorus – who have entertained the community for over 25 years; Brendan Maclean – described as “a king of pop in the making” by Guardian UK; nexus disco pop band Sugar Fed Leopards will help keep up that post-Pride buzz; and DJ Tanzer will round out the day’s post-Pride entertainment.
“There is every reason for Melburnians to head down to Fitzroy Street, St Kilda for Midsumma Pride March,” said Roger Wyndham, President of Fitzroy Street Business Association. “Our restaurants, bars and cafes will be celebrating the day with Pride March special offers – right throughout the St Kilda bayside area – and of course, the Post Pride Party at Catani Gardens, has something for everyone.”
As Victoria’s leading Festival for and by LGBTQIA+ peoples, Midsumma is proud to celebrate and deliver this significant event along Fitzroy Street, St Kilda. For more information, visit: www.fitzroystreetstkilda.com.au or www.midsumma.org.au for details.
Image: Participants at the 2017 Pride March
Midsumma Pride March – Sunday 28 January 2018
Pride March: Fitzroy St, St Kilda
Assembly: from 12.00pm
March Starts: 2.00pm
March Conclude: 4.00 / 4.15pm (approximate)
Post Pride Celebrations: Catani Gardens, St Kilda
Event opens: 2.00pm
Most activities commence: 4.00pm
Event concludes: 7.00pm
Pre & Post Pride March Parties
Boozy Brunch @ Fitzrovia
Join in on the colour, craze and frivolity of the happiest day of the St Kilda Summer calendar. Fitzrovia is giving you the opportunity to have poll position with front row seats to watch all the fun of the March with their Pride of Place Boozy Brunch.
Pineapple Pride Party at Tolarno Eating House & Bar – from 1.00pm
Playing the best Gay Disco tunes among their amazing MIRKA MORA originals featuring award winning drag host Donna DuTchme – free entry.
Pride @ Robarta – from 12.00pm
Millie Minogue and Jacqui Meoff will be hosting the event. They will be joined by Sabrina Babyslut, Fembot Ex & Men in Stilts alongside professional dancers who will get everyone on that dance floor. At 7.00pm, The Huxleys will be showcase their moving performances and amazing costumes. DJs over two floors – free entry.
Pride After Party at Freddie Wimpoles – from 12.00pm
Freddie’s will be tapping Stomping Ground Brewing Co’s PRIDELweiss Australian wheat ale in support. Dress up, dress down, whatever you feel on the day! Freddie’s will be going all night – free entry.
Circa Deck Pride – from 1.00pm
Poof Doof and Rock City Present Circa Deck Pride headlining with Kitty Glitter alongside John Course, Argonaut, Jade Glover. Guests will celebrate high above Fitzroy Street at the Circa Deck and Pool, with gourmet sausage sizzle and cocktails – ticketed event.