I am considering flying to Sydney to watch the parade on 28 February and generally enjoy the various goings-on in 2026. Planning to stay around 10 days. I have been to Australia before (Perth, Indian-Pacific, Sydney) and wondering if another trip would be worthwhile. Of course I could also branch out and visit places like the "Gold Coast" and further north as well. I am sitting here wondering if my idea is crazy and asking folks from Australia if this is worth it is perhaps the wrong folks to even ask. Comments, both positive and negative appreciated and thanks in advance.

Hi, Dukey

I'm a bit un sure as to your actual question. If you like Mardi Gras, and its accompanying attractions, then it's certainly a brilliant time to be in Sydney. The weeks leading up to the final parade are packed with fun things to do.. The weather should be good.

As to visiting the Gold Coast - I have no opinion.

The Mardi Gras parade in Sydney always looks amazing. I haven't been but if you're interested, then come! There is so much to see in Australia, it's a big country as you'd know from your long train trip here. Why would it be crazy?

Accommodation close to the parade will book up quickly I think so get on to that now. Ideas for places to visit - Blue Mountains, Melbourne (maybe Great Ocean Rd tour or Healesville Sanctuary day trip?). Adelaide - art gallery, state library, wineries​ - Barossa, Clare, McLaren Vale, Kangaroo Island tour.

Gold Coast beaches were badly damaged in a storm some time ago, check what they are like now if you plan to go there. I'd avoid the northern part of Australia (Cairns, Darwin etc) in February due to the weather, very humid, often floods, etc.

You could check out the TripAdvisor forum to see what others say about the parade, start and finish areas, what else is on associated with the Mardi Gras, good areas to stay.

The 2026 programme is now out:
https://www.mardigras.org.au/

I have friends who love the Mardi Gras and associated events and go yearly from Melbourne. Why not if its sometning you've always wanted to do

Hi Dukey,

Just saw your post. Agree - the TA Forum is a lot more active than Australian Fodors. Hop over there for a lot more contributors.

Mardi Gras is a great time to be in Sydney, both for the parade & associated events and also because February is an ideal time. Summer, school holidays are over, lots to see & do to suit all interests. And of course, the beaches & harbour (which you already know, having been here before).

I'd like to suggest a couple of days in Brisbane - with another 2-3 on the Gold Coast and/or Sunshine Coast.

It's popular with some people to bag the Gold Coast, but it's far more than Cavil Avenue, Surfers Paradise, which seems to be what they think encompasses it. It has superb beaches, but you have beaches at home too. Yes, there was a lot of damage during ex Cyclone Alfred - but they are still functional & well patronised. There's also stunning National Parks, a great Art Precinct, good restaurants ....

I think Brisbane would tick a lot of your boxes for a beautiful river city, with great art galleries, interesting history, music & theatre - and some fantastic restaurants.

I'll post some links that may be useful later - I'm off to a Melbourne Cup do today & need to scoot now.