party animals gear up for pink loerie mardi gras

By: Mongezi Mhlongo (BTM Reporter)

SOUTH AFRICA – 17 March 2009: Countdown has began for the much anticipated Pink Loerie Mardi Gras 2009, to be held in Knysna from 30 April to 03 May.

The Pink Loerie Mardi Gras, “is a celebration of the gay culture and all diversities within this culture as well as a celebration of the sexual freedoms in our constitution.”

This is according to its organiser Juan Alan Sass, who added, “It is a 4 day event filled with fun and laughter, a true festival with all the right ingredients, people from all over SA and quite a few from abroad come celebrate their lives, their sexuality and their lifestyles in one of the most beautiful places in SA.”

Sass said the festival has attracted both local and international party revelers because of its components and its location.

The Pink Loerie Mardi Gras is the first and only Mardi Gras on the African continent, it was established in 2000 and according to Sass, it has seen enormous growth since its inception.

“We have grown from 254 people at the launch in 2000 to more than 40 000 in 2008”, he added.

He further highlighted that this festival is diverse and inclusive in all aspects.

“The Pink Loerie Mardi Gras is a celebration for all regardless of race, colour, creed, religion etc.”

 “2009 will be the best and most fun Loerie ever. Get friends together, outfits, hats, dancing shoes, feathers and whatever else you would need to make this Loerie another memorable one”, a statement in The Pink Loerie website read.