Famous around the world for its surf, sand and lifesavers, Sydney's Bondi Beach welcomed a new attraction today, a gigantic rainbow sand sculpture, to mark 100 days to go until Sydney WorldPride.
Made entirely from sand, the 2m tall x 4m wide giant rainbow sculpture, located at the Bondi Pavilion Forecourt, is a larger-than-life representation of the powerful and universally recognised symbol of LGBQTIA+ pride.
The Honourable Ben Franklin, Minister for Tourism, said that WorldPride 2023 will showcase Sydney's natural beauty, lifestyle and attractions to a global audience while unveiling the diverse line-up featured in the festival's program.
"Sydney is an inclusive and proud LGBTQIA+ city. We are the first city in the Southern Hemisphere to host WorldPride and we're incredibly excited to welcome revellers and friends from across the globe for the ultimate celebration," Mr Franklin said.
"The program of events is world-class, and NSW will be abuzz with activity with over 300 events over 17 days. Now is the time to check out the program, plan your festival, book your tickets, and join us in Sydney for an unmissable event."
More than 300 events were revealed today as Sydney WorldPride unveiled its full Festival Guide, all taking place from 17 February to 5 March 2023, with international pop superstar Charli XCX joining the line-up of stars performing at Live and Proud: Sydney WorldPride Opening Concert presented by American Express at The Domain on Friday 24 February 2023.
Charli XCX will be performing alongside local star Jessica Mauboy and pop royalty Kylie Minogue at the official Opening Concert, hosted by Courtney Act and Casey Donovan. The concert will be broadcast live on the ABC.
Kelly Rowland has also been confirmed to headline Domain Dance Party, an open-air dance event curated by DJ Dan Slater. An incredible line-up of local and international DJs has also been confirmed, including DJ Suri and Isis Muretech.
Sydney WorldPride is the largest LGBQTIA+ event ever held in the region, with 17 days of activities spanning 19 Official major events, 68 curated WorldPride Arts experiences, 17 WorldPride Sports events and 192 Pride Amplified community events.
Sydney WorldPride Chief Executive, Kate Wickett, said: "The Sydney WorldPride Festival Guide represents 144 pages of fabulous LGBQTIA+ creativity. The festival includes an extraordinary array of free and ticketed experiences from concerts to parties, theatre, sports and family events, so no matter your interests or budget, you are invited to Sydney WorldPride."
"The first WorldPride in the Southern Hemisphere is a significant moment for both for the LGBTQIA+ community in Australia and Sydney. Now is the time to get ready for the global LGBTQIA+ reunion we've all been waiting for!"
Visitors to Sydney can book major event tickets with flights and accommodation through an Approved Travel Provider until 30 November. The full Sydney WorldPride Festival Guide can be found at https://sydneyworldpride.com/.
