Midsumma and Mardi Gras programs ensure a queer summer ahead

Asexual comedy, drag kings, lesbian drama, trans theatre and in-your-face gay cabaret feature in the programs of Sydney and Melbourne’s LGBTQIA+ cultural festivals in 2025.
Samuel Gaskin in the 2025 Midsumma Festival production 'HONŌUR'. The New Zealand born musician poses dramatically, hands raised and face painted, against a colourful backdrop.

With the official start of the Australian summer on 1 December, seasonal festivals will soon be on everyone’s mind. Leading the charge are the queer cultural festivals of Sydney and Melbourne, both of which have now launched their full programs.

“This is a celebration of diversity, creativity and collective strength, reminding us of the power of shared stories and experiences regardless of difference. Together, we can dance with many diverse bodies, sing with many diverse voices and hold space for us all.”

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Richard Watts OAM is ArtsHub's former National Performing Arts Editor; he also presents the weekly program SmartArts on Three Triple R FM. Richard is a life member of the Melbourne Queer Film Festival, a Melbourne Fringe Festival Living Legend, and was awarded the 2019 Sidney Myer Performing Arts Awards' Facilitator's Prize in early 2020. He received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Green Room Awards Association in 2021, and a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in June 2024. Photo: Fiona Hamilton. Follow Richard on Bluesky @richardthewatts.bsky.social and Instagram @richard.l.watts