MAIN Travel New York City Coney Island Mermaid Parade

Come join the fun at the Mermaid Parade of Coney Island -- an annual, ocean-themed parade that takes place each June "down by the beautiful sea" -- on Coney Island in Brooklyn, New York.

The Mermaid Parade typically takes place on a weekend closest to the beginning of summer as the event is meant, in part, to celebrate the beginning of summer.

The Coney Island Mermaid Parade traditionally takes place on the third Saturday in June. This year, that means Saturday, June 16, 2012 (date subject to change - stay glued for further details as the schedule shapes up.)

In 2012, also watch for special events to be announced celebrating the Coney Island Mermaid Parade's 30th anniversary!

The first Mermaid Parade was held in 1983, and has been an integral part of Coney Island life ever since. There are often thousands of parade participants, and hundreds of thousands of people who come out to snap pictures and take in the parade.

Along with kicking off the summer, the Mermaid Parade originated to help continue the tradition of Mardi Gras-like events that were often held on Coney Island in the first half of the 20th century.

Like the most raucous Fat Tuesday events found in New Orleans, the Coney Island Mermaid Parade features racy costumes, partial nudity, and one of the most festive party atmospheres East of the Mississippi!

Artistic self expression is also a highly encouraged part of the parade, and Mermaid Parade observers are likely to see mermaids, mermen, and a wide variety of other sea creatures. The Mermaid Parade also features local celebrities who take on the coveted roles of King Neptune and a Queen Mermaid each year.

After the Mermaid Parade, the Mermaid Parade Ball takes place, in which parade participants and observers can get together and mingle, enjoy live music, and watch the many sideshows and burlesque acts which come out to entertain. Although the organizers say otherwise, it might be best to leave the kids home ... but definitely bring the camera!

Have fun!

More about the Coney Island Mermaid Parade around the Web:

Coney Island Mermaid Parade - The official site, with complete information on this year's festivities including FAQ, directions, photo gallery.

Coney Island Mermaid Parade - Wikipedia - Complete overview including a detailed history and background information, photos, related references and resources.

Coney Island Mermaid Parade Photo Galleries - Great archived photos collection of parades past, including a look at mermaid iconography and carnival art.

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