Sydney Mardi Gras has an electric feel, and for many people in Australia, it is the highlight of the LGBT+ calendar. The city comes alive with thousands and thousands of people wanting to experience the world famous celebrations. For me, it was the first exposure to my community, and the start of a journey of radical self-acceptance. 

When I was 17, I moved all by myself to Sydney - a little fish in a very big pond. I was wet behind the ears and had never given permission for my internalised queerness to burst from inside. I’d never worn a pair of heels, let alone done drag. If only I knew what was waiting for me on Oxford Street.

One warm evening in March, I was walking back from work just as the sun was setting, when I ran into some people in wonderful costumes. I walked with them for a bit, chatting and laughing with this group of strangers. Looking back, I’m embarrassed at how shy I would have seemed! They told me they were on their way to watch the Mardi Gras Parade and I should come with them. Before I knew it I was standing in a crowd of thousands, watching the floats go past. 

I’d never seen anything like it. So much colour, so much sound. I was overwhelmed and electrified at the same time. It sounds corny, but for the first time in my life, I felt like I belonged somewhere. Seeing people just like me. When the Parade was over, I said goodbye to my new friends. I was still too young to get into a club, so I just went home. I lay in bed that night, my ears buzzing with the sound of the parade, my heart pounding with excitement and the images of my future burnt into my brain. I can’t properly explain how that one night changed my life, but it was earth shattering! 

I’ve been to Mardi Gras every year since, and it’s become a huge part of my identity. It’s crucial that we hold space for LGBT+ people of all ages and backgrounds to feel safe and represented. Whether it's at work, with your friends, or in a parade, we all deserve to feel included and celebrated for our truths. We’ve come so far and we are so lucky!

So here’s my top three tips for Mardi Gras if you want to get the most out of your celebrations:

1) Find your tribe

It’s important to seek out people like you, and what better way to do so than trying out a bunch of different events! You might be surprised who you meet if you attend some new events. The Mardi Gras calendar is packed with so many diverse events, so try them all out!

2) Get your look ready

Make sure you get your outfits ready as soon as possible. Mardi Gras looks are meant to be over the top, and you can never be overdressed. Maybe you’ve been wanting an excuse for a set of acrylics or to get your hair done? Here’s your chance! Check out the Afterpay Pride Store for a bunch of great products to get Mardi Gras ready.

3) Remember that Pride started as a Protest

To the generations of LGBT+ people who came before me, I have to thank you for your sacrifice and opening the doors. And now? Now I get the joy of introducing other people to drag and joy of being queer — and there’s nothing more fulfilling. 

Happy Mardi Gras!