Virgin Blue Packages (1)

New Mardi Gras (NMG) and Virgin Blue today announced details of a major push to bring interstate visitors to the 2010 Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras.

The two organisations have collaborated to put together five highly integrated deals including airfares, accommodation and event tickets, available through Blue Holidays, the holiday program of Virgin Blue. The packages will allow visitors to get the very best out of Mardi Gras with one simple purchase.

Click here to check out these packages!

Two packages focus on the weekend of the Parade, which this year takes place on 27th February. One other focuses on the Mardi Gras Party weekend of 6th and 7th March. Two further week-long packages offer visitors the chance to enjoy the most exciting week-long program ever offered by New Mardi Gras.

Packages include tickets to many of this year’s Mardi Gras’ most coveted events, including a wide range of parties, arts and cultural events and social events around Sydney’s tourist attractions from Manly Beach to Luna Park. They also include exclusive parade viewing access.

The packages will be promoted through a joint print and online campaign, targeting both interstate markets and New Zealand.

In August 2009, Events NSW research showing that Mardi Gras brought over 21,000 visitors into New South Wales in 2009, generating almost $30 million in new money for the State.

“We are delighted to have these packages out in the market,” said NMG Head of Marketing & Communications Damien Eames. “We have an exceptional season planned and these holidays really make the most of the events we’re hosting all over Sydney.”

Virgin Blue General Manager Public Affairs, Heather Jeffrey, said “Mardi Gras is one of the biggest events on the calendar and we’re pleased to be associated with NMG, working together to package up unique holidays and experiences so travelers can make the most of their time while in Sydney.”