Gaytimes returns for its ninth edition in 2025, bringing music, and art to Gembrook in March.
Australia’s beloved queer camping festival, Gaytimes, is back for its ninth edition, running from Friday, March 21 to Sunday, March 23, 2025. A shift in dates places the event at the transition between late summer and early autumn, offering a new take on the ultimate queer weekend away.
Once again set in the beautiful native forest of Gembrook, Gaytimes 2025 promises an intimate experience full of music, art, and self-expression. The BYO event is set to bring the same vibrant energy, allowing Australia’s queer community to come together for a celebration of identity, art, and community spirit.
Key details for the 2025 ballot:
- Ballot registration closes on Friday, October 11 at 5pm AEDT.
- First Round Ballot tickets will go on sale on Tuesday, October 15 at 9am.
- If you miss out on the first round, the Second Round Ballot will be drawn on Friday, October 18 at 9am.
- General Public Sale tickets will go on sale on Tuesday, October 22 at 9am.
Keep up with the latest music news, features, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
Registrations for the ballot to purchase tickets are now open, and as tickets have sold out in minutes in previous years, this is the best way to secure your spot.
You can buy up to four tickets, along with options for glamping, car passes, and bus tickets. If you miss out on a ballot ticket, you’ll still have a chance during the general sale.
Gaytimes organisers encourage early ticket purchases as 80% of tickets sold out on the first day last year. Without corporate sponsorship or major government funding, the festival relies on ticket and bar sales to keep it running as a boutique event.
Why the new dates?
The shift from mid-February is a strategic move to avoid peak summer bushfire season and reduce risks of extreme fire danger. Moving into March also allows the festival to avoid clashing with other major events like Midsumma, Mardi Gras, and the Adelaide and Perth Fringe festivals.
Volunteer applications and artist submissions will open soon, with heavily discounted tickets available for First Nations communities and those experiencing financial hardship.
Gaytimes, now nearing a decade, continues to operate independently, supported by the passion of volunteers and the wider queer community. As the cost of living and event production rises, organisers emphasise the importance of ticket sales to ensure the festival’s future.
Get tickets to Gaytimes here.
