Bear Essentials Sydney 2025

Bear Essentials Sydney 2025

Bear Essentials brings together the best of local bear culture and offers it to the world in one of the best cities in the world, Sydney.

• Visiting for Bear Essentials? Darlinghurst  is the focal point of Mardi Gras celebrations, and home to some of Australia’s longest-running and best-known LGBTQI bars. Stay at The 292 Apartments, offering spacious suites with a wide range or amenities and rates Superb by guests.

The Event

• Bear Essentials is Australia’s most renowned bear festivals, organised by Harbour City Bears, and held during Sydney Mardi Gras.
• Events typically include a bear picnic, the Wet Furr pool party, the Underbear Night, city tours and trips to Sydney’s gay nude beach.
• Bear Essentials kicks off at Fair Day in Victoria Park. Join the Harbour bears for a fun day in the sun.
• Other highlights include the Bare Beach Day at Obelisk Beach, Sydney’s gay beach where you will find many a bear with nothing but a bottle of water and suntan lotion.
• Discover the best places to party, stay and play with our Gay Sydney Guide.

Fair Day in the Park

• Awaiting dates – Dive into the vibrant celebration at Victoria Park with over 80,000 attendees for the Mardi Gras kick-off. Savor the food, enjoy live performances, and say hi at the Harbour City Bears stall.
  Victoria Park, Camperdown, 10am to late (HCB stall: 10am to 4pm)

Fair Day After Party

• Awaiting dates – Unwind at The Town Hall Hotel with the Harbour City Bears.
  Enjoy three floors of fun, priority entry with membership, and a friendly atmosphere perfect for making new friends.
  The Town Hall Hotel, Newtown, from 3pm until 11:30pm

Beach Days

• Awaiting dates – Bask in the sun with Harbour City Bears at Little Congwong Beach.
  Enjoy the clothing-optional sands and free sunscreen but remember to walk carefully to this hidden gem.
• There are two outings, one day to Little Congwong Beach, La Perouse, 11am to 4pm and the second to Obelisk Beach, Mosman, 11am to 4pm

Underbear

• Awaiting dates – Let loose at Space Nightclub for the legendary Underbear party.
  Featuring top DJs and an electrifying atmosphere.
  Space Nightclub, Sydney, from 9pm to 3am

Wet Furr

• Awaiting dates – Make a splash at the Cook and Phillip Pool for Wet Furr’s pool party.
  Then head over to Furry Friday with your wristband for priority access.
  Cook + Phillip Park Pool, Sydney, from 6pm to 9pm

Mardi Gras Parade

• Awaiting dates – Shine bright on Oxford Street with the Harbour City Bears.
  Join the United Bears of Australasia in a parade that celebrates diversity and unity.
  Oxford Street, Darlinghurst

The Venues

• Victoria Park in Camperdown is a sprawling public space that hosts the lively Fair Day event. Located in the district of Camperdown, this park offers a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere for the Mardi Gras celebrations.
• The Town Hall Hotel  (or Townie for short) in Newtown is a popular venue for the Harbour City Bears’ events, including the Fair Day After Party and the Sunday Sessions. Situated in the eclectic district of Newtown, this multi-level establishment provides a welcoming environment for bear enthusiasts and their friends.
• Ginger’s in Darlinghurst serves as the backdrop for events like Press Paws and the Big’n’Burly Cabearet. The bar offers a blend of entertainment, delectable treats, and a vibrant atmosphere for attendees to savor. Located in the Oxford Hotel complex.
• Little Congwong Beach in La Perouse provides a stunning coastal setting for the Beach Day 1 event. Situated in the district of La Perouse, this secluded beach offers a serene and natural backdrop for a day of sun, sand, and community revelry. Located a 20-minute drive from Oxford Street.
• Hung Cheung in Marrickville sets the stage for the Yum Cha Brunch, offering a delightful feast of steamed dumplings and savory buns. This restaurant promises an authentic Yum Cha experience amidst a vibrant community. Marrickville is a diverse suburb with a strong sense of community. It’s known for its wide array of ethnic eateries, ranging from Vietnamese to Greek. The local scene includes bustling markets, independent shops, and a thriving arts community. Breweries offer a taste of local craft beer, while live music venues keep the nightlife energetic. It’s a down-to-earth place where there’s always something new to discover.
• Miss Wolf in Marrickville welcomes guests for After-Brunch Drinks, providing a laid-back atmosphere for post-brunch relaxation. Situated in the district of Marrickville, this LGBTQIA+ bar offers a space for guests to unwind and enjoy lively entertainment.
• Obelisk Beach in Mosman serves as the idyllic setting for Beach Day 2, offering a tranquil escape by the water. Situated in the picturesque district of Mosman, this beach provides an opportunity for attendees to soak up the sun and enjoy a day of relaxation. Located a 20-minute drive from Oxford Street.
• The 1989 Arcade Bar in Newtown hosts the Retro Arcade Night, offering a nostalgic journey through classic arcade games. Located in the vibrant district of Newtown, this revamped arcade bar promises an evening filled with retro gaming and entertainment.
• Space Nightclub above the Shark Hotel in Sydney sets the stage for Underbear, promising an electrifying night of music and revelry. Located in the heart of Sydney, this nightclub offers an immersive experience for bear enthusiasts and partygoers alike.

Other events by Harbour City Bears

• Harbour bears hosts regular Friday night bears at Kinselas and Sunday Bears at the Bank. Check their Facebook page for updates.

Where to stay during Sydney Mardi Gras

The following hotels are close to Sydney’s top attractions and the Mard Gras celebrations:

Best Western,    Rydges Hotel,    Meriton Suites,    Pullman Hotel