Midsumma Festival

Midsumma Festival, one of Melbourne’s most loved LGBTQIA+ celebrations, returns in 2026 with an electric three-week-long party from January 18 to February 8. Expect more than 250 events spanning art, theatre, music, comedy, film and fun, showcasing dazzling local and international queer talent. With vibrant festival hubs across Melbourne and greater Victoria, it’s an inclusive celebration of creativity and community.

Some of the highlights of the 2026 program include the international hit play Afterglow at Chapel Off Chapel; Australian Open at Theatre Works; the smash-hit cabaret He's Every Woman; Drag Storytime for Adults with Narelda Jacobs and Karina Natt at the State Library Victoria; and plenty heaps more.

But it all kicks off when the free Midsumma Carnival opens the festival on Sunday, January 18, at Alexandra Gardens. This free celebration showcases LGBTQIA+ talent across multiple stages, alongside community and business stalls, pop-up bars and food zones. Expect a packed day of performances, plus the much-loved Dog Show and Lip Sync Limelight. As the sun sets, the carnival transforms into a high-energy dance party with DJs and drag queens.

The signature Midsumma Pride March will take place on Sunday, February 1, and will see thousands of marchers and onlookers gather in St Kilda in support of LGBTIQA+ communities. The parade will kick off at 10.30am and run through Fitzroy Street and Catani Gardens, with some cool after-parties, of course. 

For the last night of the festival (February 7), Freak Out! The Afterparty will take over the new Spiegel Haus with the ultimate late-night closer: a wild soirée showcasing a line-up of cabaret, circus and other live acts, all set to a '90s house music soundtrack. With jaw-dropping performances guaranteed, it's shaping up to be one helluva glitter-soaked celebration.

Closing out Midsumma is Victoria’s Pride Street Party on Sunday, February 8, on Fitzroy’s Gertrude and Smith Streets. As always, it will be a glittering all-day party that celebrates love and diversity through art, live music, performances, community and culture. 

Find out more about Midsumma and Victoria’s Pride by visiting the website.

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