Guide to Pride: Events the whole family can enjoy during World Pride 2023

World Pride 2023 (February 18 – March 5) is an amazing time to celebrate all of the things that make the LGBTQIA+ community beautiful, while also recognising the struggles they face and how we, as allies, can better advocate for their rights. Better yet, this year – for the first time ever – World Pride is happening right here in Australia, and will incorporate the beloved and iconic Sydney Mardi Gras. This presents Aussie parents with a truly unique and important opportunity to talk to their kids about the importance of Pride and why it is something to celebrate. If you are interested in participating in one of the many family friendly events taking place around the country, we’ve put together a little guide on what’s on and how to approach the topic with your children.

Explain the purpose of the event

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• Before attending a Pride event, it’s important to talk to your kids about what the event is for and what it represents. You can find tips on how to do that here.
• Explain the history of the LGBTQ+ movement and why events like Pride are important for promoting equality and visibility.

Emphasise respect and inclusiveness

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• Teach your children about the importance of respecting everyone, regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other aspect of their identity.
• Remind them that everyone should be treated with kindness and dignity.

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Plan ahead

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• Research the event beforehand and decide what activities and areas you want to visit with your children.
• Familiarise yourself with the rules and guidelines of the event so you can ensure the safety and comfort of your children.

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Prepare for sensory overload

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• Pride events can be crowded and loud, so be prepared for sensory overload.
• Consider bringing earplugs, headphones, or other sensory aids if needed.

Engage in educational activities

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• Many Pride events offer educational activities, such as workshops and storytelling sessions, that can help your children learn more about the LGBTQ+ community.
• Encourage your kids to participate and ask questions.

Have fun!

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• Pride events are a celebration of love and diversity, so encourage your children to dance, sing, and enjoy themselves.

Debrief after the event

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• After the event, take time to talk to your children about their experience and answer any questions they may have.
• Use this opportunity to reinforce the values of respect, inclusiveness, and equality that you discussed before the event.

Kid Friendly Events Across Australia

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New South Wales

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• Harris Street, Pyrmont – Saturday 25 March, 11am to 10pm
• Kids can join in a variety of workshops in the circus playground and Snap Fitness will run hip-hop dance classes.
• The Rainbow Tree – Tickets, 18 -19th February
• 39 Burton St Darlinghurst, NSW, 210, Australia
• The Rainbow Tree is musical storytelling with moving images. Written with children from Rainbows families, it shares personal and imagined stories through song around the idea of family, identity and community

For a comprehensive guide to Sydney World Pride Events, check out the official website. 

South Australia 

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• Southern Pride March and Family Fun Day – 25 February, 2pm to  6pm ACST
• Rotary Park, 1 Beach Rd, Christies Beach SA
• Be free to be you with an afternoon by the sea at Southern Pride March and Family Fun Day

Victoria

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• Pride in the Park – 18 March, 10am-4pm 
• Rosalind Park
• A fun and inclusive all-ages event to celebrate Pride in the iconic Rosalind Park. Musicians, drag acts, face painting, games and the Throne Harbour Health Dog Show. Bringa  picnic and hang out with your Rainbow Family

Northern Territory

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• Fab Alice Festival – 9th-12th March
• Fab Alice festival is a unique showcase of drag, family and cabaret events, celebrating the inclusivity and diversity of the Red Centre
• Multi-venue event, located in Alice Springs NT, Australia

Australian Capital Territory

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• Fresh Out Fair Day – Saturday 11 March, 11am-5pm
• Glebe Park
• Fresh Out Fair Day is a one-day outdoor event with non-stop entertainment for families, youth, adults and those young at heart. The event will showcase LGBTQIA+ pride and diversity
• Free event

Western Australia

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• Albany Pride Festival – 3 March to 12th March
• With the theme for 2023 being “Lets Get Visible”, Pride Festival promises to have a more diverse range of events that will appeal to all sections of the community, incorporating the arts, sports, family and youth events

Tasmania

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• Pride Parade Viewing Party, 25 February, 5:30pm AEDT
• Davenport location: Central Bar & Restaurant 82, Formby Road Devonport, TAS 7310
• Launceston location: The Royal Oak hotel, 14 Brisbane St, Launceston TAS
• Watch the Sydney Pride parade