An estimated 500,000 visitors are descending on Sydney for a 17-day party as WorldPride celebrates the LGBTQI community in 300 events ranging from massive street parties to a human rights conference and a march across the Harbour Bridge.

WorldPride will add about $112 million to the local economy, although not through ticket sales because most events are free thanks to sponsorship deals struck by Sydney WorldPride, a sister organisation of Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras.