River Pride Parade

Overview

Sydney has the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade, which takes over Oxford Street for a night of celebration. Melbourne has the Midsumma Pride March, its equivalent in Fitzroy Street, St Kilda. From November 2024, Brisbane is sharing the show of pride, but in a way befitting the River City: with the first-ever River Pride Parade as part of Melt Festival's new expanded guise.

Boats will float from William Jolly Bridge to Brisbane Powerhouse, all embracing everything that a pride parade should be — just on the water. The River Pride Parade takes place from 3pm on Saturday, November 9, with Courtney Act leading the charge as the fest's inaugural ambassador.

You can register to hit the water during the River Pride Parade, which will help close out Melt this year, with the entire fest running from Wednesday, October 23–Sunday, November 10. Don't have a boat? Organisers advise that watercraft of all shapes and sizes can take part.

The new Melt was announced in 2023 as a fringe-style event to celebrate LGBTQIA+ art and performance everywhere from Fortitude Valley to Woolloongabba, showcasing queer work, talents, legends and allies. Brisbanites should already know that Brisbane Powerhouse has hosted Melt Festival for eight years and counting, with that event considered a predecessor to this newcomer. Now, the fest is broadening its scope — spreading beyond the Powerhouse, featuring more artists and venues, and operating as an open access-style shindig.

Images: Jack Martin.