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Where to celebrate the Midsumma Festival in Melbourne

rainbow LGBTQIA flag

Jessica Taylor Yates

Posted January 21, 2022

Whether you’re looking to party, eat and drink, play games, catch a dog show or cheer on at the Pride March, there’s plenty of fun to be had at the 2022 Midsumma Festival. 

Australia’s inaugural Midsumma event is back for another year. The nation’s queer arts and cultural organisation will run queer events encompassing local and international artists, performers, events, forums and community events over 22 days from Sunday 23 January – Sunday 13 February.

With over 194 events to choose from across 100 venues in Victoria, including films, theatre, parties, sporting events, live music, and visual arts, RACV is proud to partner with Midsumma for another year to celebrate queer arts and culture.

Tickets may be required for certain events. Please check the event website for most up-to-date information on ticket prices, dates, times, and COVID-19 restrictions in place. 

What to see at the Midsumma Festival this year

Midsumma Carnival

Sunday 23 January, Alexandra Gardens

The Midsumma Carnival signals the beginning of the Midsumma Festival. The outdoor celebration featuring music, performances, lip-sync competitions, carnival sporting games, food, retail stalls and entertainment will be held at Alexandra Gardens, as well as the much-loved Dog Show.

Parking can be a challenge at this event, so those looking to cycle in can use the free bike valet provided by arevo at the St Kilda Rd end of the park.

The Midsumma Pride March

Sunday 6 February, Fitzroy Street St Kilda

A signature event of the festival, the Midsumma Pride March celebrates ‘solidarity in gender and sexual diversity' with a festive march of more than 8000 participants down Fitzroy Street in St Kilda. The general public are welcome to join as allies along with the 45,000 spectators, where the Pride March ends at Catani Gardens for a major celebration with live music and dance.  

 

A person at the Midsumma Pride March

Parking can be tricky around Fitzroy during the Midsumma Pride March. Image: Getty. 

 

Melbourne Pride – A Road to Pride

Sunday 13 February, Corner Gertrude and Smith Street

An event that commemorates 40 years since the decriminalisation of homosexuality in Victoria, Melbourne Pride is an iconic street party delivered by Midsumma as initiated by the State Government.

Set in Melbourne’s funky northside (as well as pop-ups in regional Victoria); the event will present live music and performances, circus acts, stalls, activities, and demonstrations to ‘embark on a journey of equality through inspirational arts, community, involvement, food, and culture.’

Midsumma Presents – Curated by Midsumma

Various dates across the Festival

As well as the iconic march and Pride festivities, Midsumma has curated an inclusive program of entertainment and art from a range of LGBTQIA+ artists and institutions. This year, there is a focus on ‘And/Or Events,’ which have been tailored specifically for queer and disabled artists.

Anyone looking to join in on the festivities across the state can browse Midsumma’s vibrant program, encompassing performances like dance, theatre, cabaret, comedy, and theatre; live music from classical to electronic; visual art exhibitions both in-person and online; films, talks, tours and workshops; sporting activities; markets and fashion pop-ups; community outreach events for all ages, and of course, plenty of parties to ring in another year of Midsumma.

 

RACV is a proud Gold Partner of The Midsumma Festival and will be joining the Midsumma Pride March on Sunday 6 February.