41st Annual Mermaid Parade in Coney Island Takes Place this June 17

Saturday, June 17, 2023
1:00 – 4:30 pm

Coney Island, Brooklyn, NY

Learn more at the official pages here…

Parade Route: Parade begins on West 21st Street and Surf Avenue and heads west to 10th Street from which it continues on towards Steeplechase Plaza, under the Parachute Jump.

The Mermaid Parade is a colorful and creative celebration of Coney Island’s history and culture, held every year since 1983. It is the nation’s largest art parade, and one of New York City’s greatest summer events, attracting hundreds of thousands of spectators and participants. The parade features a King Neptune and a Queen Mermaid, who lead a procession of mermaids, mermen, sea creatures, floats, bands, and dancers along Surf Avenue and the Boardwalk.

This annual event pays tribute to a century of Coney Island ingenuity, revelry, and pageantry by celebrating the artistic vision of the masses. It is inspired by the Coney Island Mardi Gras parades of old, which were held from 1903 to 1954. The parade also marks the official opening of summer in the city, as well as the economic boost for the local businesses in the amusement area.

The Mermaid Parade is produced by Coney Island USA, a not-for-profit arts organization that aims to preserve and promote Coney Island’s unique heritage. The parade is supported by public funds from the NYC Department of Cultural Affairs, in partnership with the City Council. Anyone can join the parade by registering online or on the day of the event. The parade also has a judging panel that awards prizes for the best costumes and floats. After the parade, there is an official after party at the Coney Island Brewery.