Brisbane’s iconic Big Gay Day festival has announced an exciting date and lineup for 2024. The LGBTQIA+ street party will once again take over The Wickham Hotel in Fortitude Valley on Sunday, May 5 for its 24th year, headlined by none other than Spice Girl Melanie C!
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Flying in from the UK, Melanie C will undoubtedly thrill the crowds at one of Australia’s largest queer festivals. She joins a sparkling lineup of popstars, drag queens, musicians, and DJs. Aussie dance duo Sneaky Sound System are set to get feet moving, along with renowned UK DJ Tall Paul.
Local legends on the bill include drag superstar Hannah Conda and sketch comedy group Briefs Factory. Brisbanite Jarred Baker will represent homegrown talent, whilst interstate drag collective Mega Drag rounds out the 2024 Big Gay Day entertainment.
The day-long extravaganza takes over Wickham Street, the home of popular pub The Wickham Hotel. Fabulous local identity Paul Wheeler will reprise his role as Master of Ceremonies, having hosted previous Big Gay Days.
Each year the festival raises thousands for LGBTQIA+ charities. In 2024, a portion of proceeds will go towards two queer organisations yet to be announced.
With the theme ‘Wickham of Oz’ this year, partygoers can expect a magical trip down a rainbow brick road this May. Tickets go on sale starting February 14 for the beloved event’s 24th year. Mark your calendars, dress in your most dazzling outfits, and get ready for Big Gay Day 2024!
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Big Gay Day History
Having started in 2000 as a celebration of Brisbane’s LGBTQIA+ community and a fundraiser for important charities, Big Gay Day has grown into one of the city’s biggest street parties.
The festival now shuts down an inner-city street to set up a massive main stage and bring an amazing lineup of local, national and international LGBTQIA+ entertainers.
Over the years, legends like Boy George, Sporty Spice, and The Veronicas have graced the Big Gay Day stage. In 2022, over 3,500 attendees helped raise substantial donations for charities like Diverse Voices and 2Spirits. The stages spotlighted incredible acts such as Vanessa Amorosi, Courtney Act, Faker, and a 30-strong drag extravaganza featuring Brisbane’s best performers.
Published 22-February-2024