Full Midsumma Program Released

Midsumma
Past event in Melbourne
Various locations
21 Jan to 12 Feb, 2023
Various prices
Midsumma have released the full program for the 2023 festival and it is jam-packed full of queer goodness.

With over 200 events at 120 venues spread over 23 days, this is Midsumma’s biggest ever program. It’s hard to know where to start with such a huge lineup so we’ve put together our recipe for a successful Midsumma. Start your festival planning with good structure - the 3 major events at the beginning, middle and end of the festival. Then fill in with a selection of the 200+ events scheduled for the festival across a broad range of categories - Performance, Music, Visual Arts, Film, Community & Culture, Talks, Tours & Workshops, Parties, and Sports.

We’ve listed some of our standouts but be sure to read the full program and find those niche events that speak to you. No matter your unique shade in the rainbow family, you’re sure to find something for you.

Safe(R) Space is the signature project to the festival is an artistic exploration of the intersectional identity of different parts of the LGBTQIA+ communities. So you’ll find artistic works representing each letter in the acronym as well as other groups that make up part of the rainbow umbrella. The focus of the project is how the different groups intersect and what makes up a safe space for artists and communities.

Carnival kicks off the festival on the first Sunday. Join the 120,000-strong crowd for an outdoor celebration in Alexandra Gardens with a T-dance going into the night.
Sun 22 Jan, Alexandra Gardens, Melbourne, Free
The pride march takes place in the middle of the festival. Grab a spot on Fitzroy street and catch all the colour and energy of the parade.
Sun 5 Feb, Fitzroy Street, St Kilda, Free
Closing out the festival again this year is Victoria’s Pride (last year known as Melbourne Pride) street party in Fitzroy/Collingwood. We’re hoping that the return of this popular event means it will become a regular feature of the Midsumma lineup, because who doesn’t like a street party?
Sun 12 Feb, Gertrude & Smith Streets, Fitzroy, Free
Exhibition of artworks from queer artist Ross Watson exploring the male form. The artist will be in attendance daily to share his inspiration and stories behind the artworks. See for yourself why Ross Watson’s WorldPrideNYC | Stonewall 50 exhibition was a festival favourite, attracting the attention of the New York Times and ABC TV America.
Sat & Sun, 28-Jan to 12-Feb, Ross Watson Gallery, Carlton North
Melbourne’s annual celebration of David Bowie brings together the best in music, art, fashion and entertainment inspired by Major Tom. Douse yourself in glitter from the makeover stand and then let your inner lighting bolt fly!
Sat 11 Feb, The Night Cat, Fitzroy
An all- queer lineup of entertainment takes over the Sidney Myer Music Bowl. Hosted by comedian cutie Joel Creasey and Rupaul Drag Race alumnus Kween Kong. The event is now in its fifth year and is always a sellout so grab your tickets fast.
Sat 21 Jan, Sidney Myer Music Bowl
An exhibition of images taken by middle aged gay men of male friends and acquaintances. This exhibition explores the male gaze directed to males and is intended as a reality check on masculine dominance.
Wed-Fri, 25 Jan to 12 Feb, XYZ Photo Gallery, Docklands

ACMI will host a curated selection of contemporary and classic queer cinema during Midsumma Festival dates, including Plein Soleil, Flee, Stranger by the Lake, Joyland, Loving Highsmith and Moonage Daydream.

Check schedule for times, $7-$18

Read more about Midsumma Festival in the Melbourne City Guide.