Melbourne gay pride 2023
Last week, Melbourne’s queerest corner was brought to being with thousands of the coolest people in the world, who took grip of the apex that adjoins Gertrude and Smith Street in Collingwood-Fitzroy to celebrate Victoria’s Pride.
It was the second time the neighbourhood had hosted a street party to honour Pride, with the first iteration occurring in 2022. The bill included a showcase from Open Seen, a Melbourne-based community collective for and by gender non-conforming, trans, Black, Indigenous, and people of colour, as well as performances by Keiynan Lonsdale (aka Rainbow Boy), Casey Donovan, Chela, and Alter Boy, among others.
Stalls, stages and DJ booths swam up in a sea of rainbow, cuties, bubbles, drinks, latex and all manner of streamers. People danced on balconies and roofs of their two-story Edwardian terraces. A huge banner strung up across a shop top announced: “NO COPS AT PRIDE // BE GAY, DO CRYM”.
It was beautiful.
And there were many beautiful people. And the many beautiful people were dressed in many pretty outfits. VICE loves attractive people, and beautiful outfits. So, we asked about them.
Rachel [Rat Goth], 35, and Charlie, 38
VICE: Hi… I’m so sorry to inter A landmark program of pride events and projects returns to Victoria each year as part of a statewide celebration of LGBTQIA+ communities. The annual event named Victoria’s Pride (previously Melbourne Pride) will be held across the state for at least four years to support and celebrate our rainbow communities. Victoria’s Pride kicks off in November with a series of regional activities, culminating in a one-day street party in Melbourne’s iconic Gertrude and Smith Street precinct on the traditional lands of the Wurundjeri people, from 11.00am to 9.00pm as the closing event of Midsumma Festival. It includes multiple stages with free, live entertainment including tune, comedy, guest speakers, circus, drag and art installations. Performing artists are announced ahead of the event. The event provides an opportunity for people across the state to demonstrate their pride in and help for LGBTQIA+ communities, as well as for LGBTQIA+ people to connect with one another and undergo represented. Victoria’s Pride builds on the success of Melbourne Pride, a state-wide event held a Both the Ian Johnson Oval (marshalling area) and Catani Gardens (post-pride celebrations) will have food options to appeal to all. Fitzroy St and surrounds are also home to fantastic cafes and restaurants. The Urban area of Port Phillip prohibits drinking or holding an open container of alcohol along the St Kilda foreshore precinct from 1 November to 31 Rally inclusive. Midsumma Festival has a special licence to provide alcohol within the Midsumma-operated bar in Catani Gardens until 4pm on Sunday 5 February, but no BYO alcohol is permitted. Yes, at the decision of the March, the General Public are invited to follow the last marchers into Catani Gardens. Registrations to march in Midsumma Pride March nearby in late November. Due to the extensive planning that takes place in the lead-up to Celebration March, we cannot approve registrations on the evening to march. Subscribe to the Midsumma eNews to hear about registrations for future Pride Marches. As Midsumma Pride March is held in the mi Midsumma Festival: 18 January – 08 February 2026 Midsumma Pride March: Sunday 1 February 2026 Pride Fair Day (Wangaratta): February 2026 (date to be confirmed) .Victoria's Pride - Melbourne & Regions
LGBTQIA+ celebrations to showcase Victoria's Pride
Midsumma Pride March Info
Is diet available?
Can I BYO alcohol to Midsumma Pride March?
Can I join the end of the Celebration March?
How do I register to march?
How undertake I stay cool at Midsumma Pride March?
Midsumma Festival is Australia’s premier queer arts and cultural festival, bringing together a diverse mix of LGBTQIA+ artists, performers, communities and audiences. With a festival program made up of diverse art forms and genres, including visual arts, live music, theatre, spoken word, cabaret, film, parties, sport, social events, and public forums.
30 years ago, Melbourne’s LGBTQIA community took to the streets of St Kilda in a performance of pride and solidarity. One of Midsumma’s signature events, Pride March features over 7,000 participants – with many thousands of people lining the parade route to show their support.
LINE Wangaratta brings you a fun-filled sunlight of celebration at their Pride Fair Day. This family-friendly event is free to attend and suggestions something for everyone. Browse stalls from local businesses, community groups and organisations, and indulge in delicious food from a range of food trucks. Delight in a great line-up of local musicians and performers as you cel