It’s the 34th anniversary of the Sydney Mardi Gras and this year’s parade promises to be bigger than ever.

Crowd control barriers are in place along Oxford Street, the parade route is lined with banners and rainbow flags and the people of Sydney are making their final preparations despite the fairly gloomy and showery weather.

The parade doesn’t start until 8pm local time, but there is already a buzz in the Darlinghurst area and crowds will soon begin gathering to secure the best vantage points (locals have been hoarding milk crates and will happily sell you one for AUD$10).

Highlights of the parade are expected to be the traditional opening by the Dykes on Bikes; the tribute to Kylie Minogue (with rumors that she may even be on the float); the Asian marching boys, the queer lifesavers from Bondi Beach and a posse of politicians who will be marching to show their support for marriage equality.

Gay Star News will be watching the parade from the Glamstand area near the end of the parade - we’ll bring you the highlights as they happen!