The Midsumma Carnival was held on Sunday January 17th and was a vibrant start to three weeks of Midsumma festivities.

The Carnival is for everybody, but caters for the gay, lesbian, bi-sexual and transgender (GLBT) community.

Alexandra Gardens was the perfect location. It was in the grounds closest to Flinders Street which made it vey central and accessible (providing that you utilised public transport!) It was magnificent to have the backdrop of the city whilst enjoying the parklands.

The carnival contained stalls offering culturally-specific Gay and Lesbian support groups, health information and affiliation with particular aspects of GLBT lifestyle.

Wet weather threatened the carnival a few times throughout the seven-hour event, but the crowd remained full and relished the sunshine.

One of the highlights was the performance by three drag queens from the Commercial Hotel in Yarraville. They really drew a crowd and it was beautiful to see such a diverse group of people, ranging from families to gay youth, enjoying the show. That is what Midsumma is all about; the whole community supporting each other and having fun.

The food stalls had long lines, but you were welcome to bring your own. The over-18 drinking area was nestled amongst the tall palm trees of Alexandra gardens and the skate ramps divided the two areas of the carnival, effortlessly providing its own entertainment.

There was an excited yet peaceful vibe to the whole event and it was empowering to feel comfortable enough to hold my boyfriend’s hand and seeing others do the same.

For information about what’s on as part of the Midsumma Festival visit midsumma.org.au.