Local businesses will be able to extend their trading hours this weekend during Mardi Gras celebrations, giving shops, restaurants and entertainment venues the option to stay open later throughout the event period.
The decision was unanimously approved at Monday’s council meeting, with the 2026 Mardi Gras parade declared a special event, allowing unlicensed premises to trade until midnight on Friday 27 February, Saturday 28 February and Sunday 1 March.
The extension is applicable to shops, restaurants, cafés, takeaway food and drink premises and community and entertainment facilities in Sydney, Darlinghurst, Surry Hills, Potts Point, Paddington, Camperdown, Newtown and Erskineville.
The extended trading hours will automatically apply to eligible venues, giving businesses the option to operate beyond their usual closing times and welcome visitors well into the night throughout the Mardi Gras period.
“This is a wonderful initiative to support our local economy, giving businesses the opportunity to take advantage of relaxed trading regulations,” Lord Mayor of Sydney, Clover Moore AO said.
“Extending trading hours during Mardi Gras will allow businesses to meet increased demand and while enhancing the energy and excitement of the celebrations.”
The approval to extend trading hours is complementary to the NSW Government’s decision to operate public transport 24 hours during the Mardi Gras festive period.
For more details contact the City of Sydney’s business, creative and nightlife concierge:
02 9265 9909 or businesscreativenightlifeconcierge@cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au
Media contact Elaine Kelly. Phone 0477 362 550 or email ekelly@cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au
For interviews with Lord Mayor of Sydney, Clover Moore AO, contact lordmayormedia@cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au