A massive street party is coming to Gertrude and Smith Street next year. Two live music stages will take over the streets, with performances from musicians and artists in celebration of Victoria’s LGBTIQ+ communities. Melbourne Pride will take place on Sunday February 13, bringing the iconic Midsumma Festival to a close.
Melbourne Pride – A Road to Pride
This event will mark the 40-year anniversary of the decriminalisation of sex between men in Victoria. Delivered by Midsumma on behalf of the Victorian Government, it will be the final major LGBTQI+ event of the summer, after Midsumma Carnival on January 23 and Midsumma Pride March on February 6.
The street party will start at 11am and run until late. Headlining the inaugural event is neo-soul pop duo Electric Fields. Other performers include Kira Puru, drag DJ duo The Jawbreakers, Vetta Borne, KYVA, award winning cabaret company YUMMY, art experience creators All the Queens Men, and cabaret performer Reuben Kaye.
Expect circus performances, live music, keynote speakers, activities, community stalls and interactive demonstrations. More details about the event will be released closer to the date.
“Melbourne Pride is a celebration of our LGBTIQ+ communities and everything they contribute to our state – because in Victoria, equality is not negotiable,” said Minister for Equality Martin Foley.
Melbourne Pride will allow both LGBTIQ+ Victorians and the broader community come together in celebration of equality, through arts, community involvement, food and culture.
Local businesses along Gertrude and Smith Street will serve food and drink to the thousands of party-goers. Some businesses will become even more involved during the event, with shopfront activations and performances in local venues.
Melbourne Pride across Regional Victoria
Regional activities have already begun. Over the weekend, Pop-Up Pride took place in Bendigo with drag performances, live music, markets, a Trans Clothing Swap and more.
Other regional areas, like Ballarat, Castlemaine and Chiltern, will also have events like exhibitions and installations over the next few months.
“We are thrilled to see such creativity already underway across the state, ensuring regional voices and stories are shared alongside what will be a street party to remember on 13 February,” said Karen Bryant, Midsumma Chief Executive Officer.
For more details about Melbourne Pride, click here.