Sydney is coming alive tonight, with people coming from all over Australia to take part in the 31st Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras, which is now underway.

Organisers say this year's event will be one of the biggest yet with over 9,500 participants and over 134 floats.

The parade's theme for this year, "Nations United", will see marchers dressed in a variety of sequined, feathered and colourful outfits.

One of the marchers, Jenny Math from Sydney, says Mardi Gras is a chance for the gay community to speak out to the rest of society.

"Most people in our group are teachers, doctors, lawyers," she said.

"But tonight we're just coming out and having a bit of fun in showing everyone the gay and lesbian community is part of the Australian community."

http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2009/03/07/2510197.htm