The Australian Embassy is teaming up with city officials in Hanoi to bring the South East Asian capital it’s first Mardi Gras celebrations.

The celebrations will run through February and March as the Sydney festival does, celebrating Australian, Vietnamese and LGBTIQ culture.

Australia’s ambassador to Vietnam Craig Chittick told SBS celebrating and promoting equality is a priority.

“Promoting gender equality is a top priority for both the Vietnamese and Australian Governments and we are proud to support Vietnam’s efforts, including through our development cooperation program here,” Chittick said.

“Through this event, we hope to bring the spirit of Sydney’s famous Mardi Gras to Vietnam, helping to raise awareness about the rights of LGBT people.”

The Mardi Gras celebrations will be in addition to the nation’s Viet Pride festival, which has been held in Hanoi since 2012.

OIP Staff