New Mardi Gras all systems go

Believe it or not, it’s almost that time of year again. New Mardi Gras tickets are on sale and the party of the year is just around the corner.

Of course, we have to get past the launch first. New Mardi Gras co-chair Michael Woodhouse said planning for the Friday 6 February launch is well underway.

Unlike last year, where the tight finances of the new New Mardi Gras organisation meant a decision to hold the launch was made just days before the event, this year’s production is definitely going ahead.

Like last year it will have a great picnic feel in the grounds of Hyde Park North, Woodhouse says.

It’s going to be the same kind of party – a nice thing to do on a Friday after work, catch up with friends and kick off the season, Woodhouse says.

Parade entries are also open, with downloadable entry forms available on the New Mardi Gras website (www.mardigras.org.au).

This year’s party tickets come with a difference – those who manage to get one before 13 February will save themselves $21 on the pre-sale ticket price, and $31 from the price at the door.

Woodhouse said the $99 tickets until 13 February are to try and get a clearer idea of who is coming to the party.

That means we can plan for a better event, he says.

We know that at least 50 percent of our ticket sales happen in the last week before the party. We want to give people an incentive to buy their tickets earlier.

Full festival, parade, party and launch details are available online at www.mardigras.org.au.