30 years of celebrating queer cultures.

For three decades every January, Midsumma Festival transforms Melbourne into a spectacular explosion of colour and culture, celebrating the diversity, resilience and talent bursting form within its LGBTIQA+ communities.

Made possible through the annual open access Festival program, Midsumma Festival cultivates queer perspectives and creates experiences that flip the status quo. Three weeks of culture will be punctuated by no less than three free outdoor events.

The program comprises more than 130 events created, installed or performed by over 1200 culture-makers in more than 70 venues and outdoor spaces this year. High-octane theatre, burlesque to brusque cabaret, music, dance, film, talks, sports, Hubs and social events are all included. The robust 2017 visual arts program once again includes the Midsumma Australia Post Art Prize.

The first weekend kicks off with Midsumma Carnival and the mid-weekend will be solidified with the Midsumma Pride March. For the first time, a new art party, Midsumma Horizon, promises a finishing weekend not to forget at Testing Grounds tucked away in Melbourne’s arts precinct near Southbank.

There promises to be plenty of entertainment on offer with a myriad of events designed to push and provoke, as well as a broad range of social, free and/or family events.

John Caldwell,  Chair of Midsumma, said “From small beginnings as GayDay in the 80s, Midsumma Festival has evolved into a highlight of the Melbourne arts and cultural scene. In 2017 we aim to provide a stronger platform for all of Melborune’s queer communities to have a voice, and to celebrate that expression together.”

Tickets to paid performances are available here

Check out the Full Program here