Sydney WorldPride Family Friendly Events

From 17 February until 5 March 2023, Sydney will turn into a hub of glitz and glamour as WorldPride kicks off throughout our rainbow-clad city.

Darling Harbour, The Rocks and Barangaroo will all play host to an abundance of queer art installations, family-friendly fun, free music and fashion performances to champion and celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community.

Here are our picks for Sydney WorldPride events the whole family can enjoy! 

1. Laneway Cinema in The Rocks

Laneway Cinema in The Rocks will take place on Wednesday nights throughout WorldPride and showcase queer classic The Birdcage and the iconic Priscilla Queen of the Desert. With heritage surrounds, hot slices of pizza, classic films, starry skies, bean bags and free entry to the movie screenings—we reckon families will love a trip to Laneway Cinema.

Where:   Laneway Cinema, The Rocks
When:    15 and 22 February 2023
Cost:      FREE

2. Dragons on Darling WorldPride Regatta 

Dragons On Darling WorldPride Regatta will fill you with adrenaline as DJs spin, drag queens perform and the fun race commentary brings plenty of good vibes!

Taking place at the iconic Cockle Bay Wharf, Darling Harbour, families will love experiencing competitive dragon boat racing firsthand. May the best crew win!

Where:   Cockle Bay Wharf, Darling Harbour
When:    4 March 2023
Cost:      FREE

3. PRIDE Zone at Madame Tussauds

Madame Tussauds will be the first of its kind in the world to celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community and promote love, equality and diversity with Sydney’s brand-new PRIDE Zone! 

Where:   Aquarium Wharf, 1-5 Wheat Road, Darling Harbour
When:    Daily throughout Sydney WorldPride
Cost:      Part of general admission, $38.40 per person

4. Fireworks at Darling Harbour

Saturday night fireworks at Darling Harbour will be getting a technicolour rainbow makeover to the soundtrack of LGBTQIA+ anthems including Lady Gaga, Prince and Beyoncé. During Saturday’s rainbow firework displays a DJ will be spinning classic queer tracks whilst visitors will be wowed by Disco Diva stilt walkers, LED hula hoopers and local drag queens bringing the fun to Darling Harbour! 

Where:   Darling Harbour
When:    Saturday nights during Sydney WorldPride
Cost:      FREE

5. The Rainbow Tree by Darlinghurst Theatre Co

The Rainbow Tree comprises musical storytelling with moving images. Written with children from Rainbow families, it shares personal and imagined stories through song, all of which centre around the idea of family, identity and community. Performed by two queer super Aunties, Aunty Bear and ZaZa from Fat Fruit (Bec Matthews and Sarah Ward) the show is brimming with singing and live music.

Where:   Darlinghurst Theatre Co, Eternity Playhouse
When:    Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 February 2023
Cost:      Tickets from $30

6. Mardi Gras Fair Day

Kick-off Sydney WorldPride in true Mardi Gras style – Fair Day: an all-day rainbow extravaganza in Victoria Park.

This is one of the community’s most-loved events bringing over 200 retail, information and food stalls, sample giveaways and family-friendly picnic areas, with entertainment featuring Carla Wehbe, Mama de Leche, Penelope Pettigrew and The Buoys. The revered Doggywood pageant has had a glam makeover, plus you’ll experience music and live performances across multiple stages and dance floors – as well as plenty of bars and food options. 

Where:   Victoria Park 
When:    Sunday 19 February 2023
Cost:      FREE

7. Frocks On The Rocks 

Get ready for an exciting and unforgettable day at the markets! On Sunday 5 March, Frocks on the Rocks will be taken to the next level with an incredible fashion show created by the talented Brendan de la Hay. As a multi-creative, he'll be bringing his unique vision to the runway with bold and innovative designs that are sure to wow the audience. And to top it off, the show will be hosted by none other than the fabulous Queen herself, Trevor Ashley. With his wit, charm, and unmatched stage presence, he'll keep the energy high and the audience engaged throughout the entire show

Where:   First Fleet Park, The Rocks
When:    Sunday 5 March 2023, 9.30am - 2pm
Cost:      FREE

6. GENEXT X PRIDE: MUSEUM TAKEOVER

It's time for Sydney's most exciting celebration of diversity and creativity for young people aged 12-18, the GENNEXT X PRIDE: MUSUEM TAKEOVER ! On 4 March, the Australian Museum of Contemporary Art will come alive with a night of artmaking and fashion workshops, live music and performances, and the chance to explore the MCA's latest exhibitions. This is a fantastic opportunity for under-18s to express themselves, meet new people, and have fun in a vibrant and inclusive environment. With so much to see and do, it's sure to be an unforgettable night. Don't miss out on this amazing event that celebrates everything that makes Sydney's youth so unique and special!

Where:   The MCA, 140 George Street The Rocks
When:    Saturday 4 March 2023, 6pm–9pm 
Cost:      FREE

6. Big Gay Aussie Breakfast

Calling all foodies! Get ready for a mouth-watering celebration of flavour and diversity on 5 March at the Big Gay Aussie Breakfast. Over 40 market stalls from The Rocks and Circular Quay will come together to create a joyful feast that's sure to please your taste buds and boost your pride. Whether you're in the mood for something sweet, savoury, or spicy, there's something for everyone at this amazing event. From traditional favourites to new and exciting flavours, the market stalls will showcase the very best of Sydney's food scene. So come hungry and get ready to indulge in a delicious celebration of food and boost your PRIDE! 

Where:   Starting in QUAY QUARTER
When:    Sunday 5 March 2023, 7.30am - 2pm
Cost:      FREE

 

Want More Fun In and Around Sydney?

Parramatta Park to Light up for World Pride with Rainbow of Light
Day Out With Thomas at the NSW Rail Museum
Sydney WorldPride 2023

Have you signed up for our newsletter? Join ellaslist to get the best family and kid-friendly events, venues, classes and things to do NEAR YOU!