We at The Brooklyn Beat look forward to The Mermaid Parade every year as it marks the beginning of summer. And with the month of rain that we have had here in NYC, this parade seems like a fitting way to welcome in the sunshine (or at least have a ritual parade celebration in hopes that they sun gods will listen and eventually shine down on us).The parade pays homage to the tradition of the Coney Island Mardi Gras parades of the very early 20th century, when Coney Island was the primary amusement destination for New Yorkers. The Coney Island Mermaid Parade as we know it began in 1983, when the first event of this kind was conceptualized and organized by Dick Zugin, known as the "Mayor of Coney Island" ( Zugin is also the founder of the non-profit arts group Coney Island USA). Today the event attracts thousands of spectators and participants and tons of lavish costumes, floats and antique automobiles. And in true Coney Island spirit, you can bet it is one heck of a freak show! There is an "under the sea theme" and every year a Fair King and Queen are crowned. There are tons of other awards as well in categories such as best mermaid, best neptune, best pull float, best motorized float, coolest convertible and best in show to name a few. And since it is technically legal in New York State for women to be topless in public (as long as it is not part of a business venture) you will most definitely see some ta-tas! Let the games begin!
This year's King Neptune will be Mr. Harvey Keitel and his Queen Mermaid Daphna. The fun all starts today, Saturday June 20th at 2pm rain or shine! Special appearances include The Uptown String Band from The Philadelphia Mummers Parade and Monster Truck ‘Blue Thunder’ will perform a parade prelude. Also be on the lookout for Ringling Bros. Barnum & Bailey’s Boom A Ring. For more info and directions click HERE
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