Later bloomers, sequins, and Sydney Mardi Gras, let’s bloom together!

🌈 Time to Bloom in Sydney Mardi Gras 2026

✨ What happens when a bunch of late-blooming lesbians swap their slippers for sequins and head to Sydney Mardi Gras? ✨

For the very first time, The Late Blooming Lounge is packing its bags (and party hats) for Sydney Mardi Gras 2026, and you’re invited!

This isn’t just a trip, it’s a chance for us later bloomers to step into something bold, joyful, and unforgettable… together.

Think of it as the ultimate gay-girl sleepover, but all grown up: rooftop cocktails, boujee group dinners, sunrise walks along Bondi, the magic of the Mardi Gras parade, and a Sundaylicious recovery party to wrap it all up.

And yes, there’ll be a cute goodie bag waiting for you too.

This trip is designed to feel effortless.

You’ll get a group chat to connect before we even leave, a custom Google Map with all the best stops, Google Calendar invites with our itinerary, and even a custom packing list so nothing gets forgotten.

My goal?

That you don’t have to think of a single thing, just show up, relax, and celebrate.

🗓️ 3 nights / 4 days

📍 Sydney, Australia

🎟️ Only 16 spots available (6 early bird tickets!)

⚠️ Doors open for just 6 weeks, then they close so I can lock in bookings.

• 12 spots in shared bunk rooms (6-bed dorms with ensuite) $1,499pp

• 2 couples’ rooms (private double with ensuite) $2,799 per couple

💸 Early Bird Special: Save $100 on the first 6 (solo) bookings

And if you’re nervous?

I get it. Honestly, I’ve wondered myself, “Who am I to host a later-bloomer trip to Mardi Gras when I’ve never even been?”

But that’s exactly the beauty of this, we’re all stepping into something new, together. You don’t need to be “gay enough” or have it all figured out. You just need to show up as you are.

🌸 What’s Included

3 nights / 4 days accommodation at YHA Sydney Harbour (rooftop views of the Opera House + Sydney Harbour)
Rooftop welcome cocktail + boujee group dinner on night one
Guided Bondi to Coogee coastal walk with coffee + breakfast together
Entry to the iconic Sydney Mardi Gras Parade (with our group experience)
Ticket to the Sundaylicious recovery party
Curated goodie bag filled with surprises

PLUS…

Private group chat to connect with everyone before the trip
Custom Google Map with all itinerary stops + my local Sydney recommendations
Google Calendar invites for all activities + optional free-time ideas
Custom packing lists designed just for this trip (so you don’t forget a thing!)
All planning + coordination done for you (so you can simply show up and enjoy)

What’s Not Included

Flights or transport to/from Sydney
Travel insurance (highly recommended)
Meals not listed above (casual lunches, snacks, etc.)
Drinks beyond welcome cocktail
Personal expenses (souvenirs, extra cocktails, glitter face paint 😉)
Any additional activities outside the group itinerary

FAQs

I’ve only just come out, am I “gay enough” to join?

Yes, absolutely. Many of us feel that nervousness, I do too! This trip is about connection, not credentials. You already belong.

Why a hostel?

We’re staying at YHA Sydney Harbour, a modern, clean hostel with a rooftop bar and incredible harbour views. It’s nothing like the backpacker hostels of your youth!

Why dorm rooms?

The vibe is gay-girl sleepover! Shared dorms bring that fun, camp-style energy while keeping costs reasonable during Mardi Gras peak season.

I don’t know anyone, will I feel left out?

Not at all. A group chat will be set up before the trip so you can connect, swap intros, and arrive already feeling like friends.

When do tickets go on sale?

Tickets open Wednesday, 3 September at 8:00pm AEST. Spots are limited and doors close after 6 weeks.

💖 Whether it’s your first Mardi Gras or your fiftieth, this is your chance to celebrate in a bold, soulful, and unforgettable way, together with women who get it.

👉 Reserve your spot now and get ready to bloom in Sydney!

This isn’t just a trip, it’s a chance to celebrate who you are, connect with women who get it, and tick Sydney Mardi Gras off your bucket list in the most unforgettable way. ✨

With only 22 spots and doors open for just 6 weeks, once they’re gone, they’re gone.

I can’t wait to welcome you with a massive hug! Xx