December 30, 2014
Where to Go in 2015: Sydney
Matthew Wexler READ TIME: 3 MIN.
Home to some of the most photographed destinations in the world, including Sydney Harbor and the Sydney Opera House, Australia's most populated city was inhabited for thousands of years by indigenous Aboriginal people - that is, before the Brits arrived in 1788 and established it as a penal colony. Speaking of antiquated laws, gay marriage is still not legal, but Australian Marriage Equality is keeping up the momentum so eventually that massive Mardi Gras Parade may turn into the biggest queer wedding of all time.
Don't Rain on My Parade
Dating back to 1978 as a solitary march, the Mardi Gras season has now expanded to a two-week festival, spanning from February 22 to March 8, 2015. Hundreds of thousands of spectators will line the streets for the main event on March 7, but plan an extended stay to experience all of the revelry.
River Deep, Mountain High
Head west to the Blue Mountains to celebrate the 10th anniversary of bentART, the largest LGBT art event in the country. The weekend festivities celebrate local cultural contributions, culminating in the Three Sisters Costume Ball, which is part of the region's annual pinkFEST activities.
The More the Merrier
The ADGE Apartment Hotel features two-bedroom, two-bathroom suites that are perfect for traveling with friends or making new ones along the way. Only a few minutes walk from Oxford Street, you'll be in the heart of Sydney's pulsating gayborhood.
All the World's a Stage
Sydney Theatre Company has the star power of Cate Blanchett behind it, but those in the know flock to this Steppenwolf of Oceania for breathtaking performances that have captivated audiences since 1978. Don't miss "The Present" (August 4-September 19, 2015), a new adaptation of Anton Chekov's first play, starring Blanchett and Richard Roxburgh, or "King Lear" (November 24, 2015-January 9, 2016) with Geoffrey Rush in the title role.
Resource Guide
Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras
Matthew Wexler is EDGE's Senior Editor, Features & Branded Content. More of his writing can be found at www.wexlerwrites.com. Follow him on Twitter and Instagram at @wexlerwrites.
