Where else would one find this intoxicating combination than the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras? It's Mardi Gras time in Sydney again, and the rainbow flags are coming out, along with the Marching Boys and many other classics such as the Dykes on Bikes. But every year the Mardi Gras finds new areas of interest and activism and this year will be no different. You can read about Sydney's pre-eminent parade in Garry Wotherspoon's article about the history of the Mardi Gras. Garry is a well known historian of the gay movement, and has been a participant in many of the struggles and celebrations he writes about. Starting as a political demonstration in 1978, which escalated due to police behaviour, the Mardi Gras has developed into a full scale cultural festival, with multiple events over several weeks. It has also become a major tourist attraction, bringing visitors from all over Australia and the world. Kicking off with the Fair Day at Victoria Park on Sunday 12 February, this year's festival looks to be as diverse and outrageous as ever. Check out the program and see what you can get along to.