In 2026, Mardi Gras+ will also feature a brand-new app, providing audiences with an easy way to discover the festival programme and plan their experience. The app will be a central hub for the events happening during the festival (and beyond).

It will be completely FREE for First Nations and trans/gender diverse event producers to place their events in the festival. Through this, they plan to create a full First Nations programme, and a full trans and gender diverse programme, to ensure accessibility to underrepresented communities.

“Mardi Gras+ is where the richness of our diverse communities truly comes to life, with events created by and for LGBTQIA+ people. This year, by making the programme free to enter for First Nations and trans and gender diverse events, we are addressing the reality that these communities are often underrepresented, face systemic barriers to entry, and are increasingly under attack,” Sydney Gay And Lesbian Mardi Gras Interim CEO Jesse Matheson says.

“This change highlights and cements their place at the heart of the festival. And with the launch of the new Mardi Gras+ app, we’re ensuring Sydney Gay And Lesbian Mardi Gras is more than a moment in the calendar; it’s a platform that connects, promotes and celebrates the diversity of our communities all year round.”

Entries to Mardi Gras+ are open to local, interstate and international organisers, across Parties, Arts, Sports, Community and Family categories. Applications will be assessed based on their relevance to LGBTQIA+ communities, contribution to the festival, and alignment with the festival’s ethical framework.

Mardi Gras+ applications are open now. They close on 6 October.

Sydney Gay And Lesbian Mardi Gras 2026 is on from 13 February-1 March.