The Midsumma Festival is a lesbian and gay arts and culture festival held in Melbourne for three weeks during January and February.
With origins stretching back over more than 20 years, the Midsumma Festival is held in around 70 different venues and attracts over 80,000 people from all over Australia. The festival aims to present a culture and arts event that celebrates the diversity and pride of the state’s lesbian, gay and allied communities within a safe and healthy environment.
Midsumma is one of the top five gay and lesbian celebrations in the world, and is made up of several different events, including Carnival, T Dance and the Annual Pride March.
Carnival is both the festival’s and gay Melbourne’s single largest event. Held in Alexandra Gardens beside the Yarra River, Carnival features dozens of stalls, food and showcase entertainment. The T Dance outdoor dance party – the festival’s farewell event – is held under the stars at Birrarung Marr on the banks of the Yarra, and features international DJs and performers.
Midsumma has attracted a number of big name entertainers to events over the years, such as Hugh Jackman, Geraldine Turner, Bimbo Jones and the ensembles Combo Fiasco and The Great Big Opera Company.
Pride March is part of the global interpride, and takes place in St Kilda’s Fitzroy St and Catani Gardens. The free event introduces the inaugural King and Queen of Pride, and encourages solidarity, diversity and a strong sense of community.
Clarion Suites Gateway is located in the centre of the CBD and right in the heart of all the action. Celebrate Midsumma in style at one of Melbourne’s best hotels, Clarion Suites Gateway.
