19th Annual Dance Parade and Festival to Bring Over 10,000 Dancers to NYC Streets

Saturday, May 17, 2025

Starting at West 17th Street & Avenue of the Americas → Concluding at Tompkins Square Park

Over 10,000 dancers will fill the streets in an extraordinary celebration of movement, culture, and community as the 19th Annual Dance Parade and Festival takes place on Saturday, May 17, 2025. The day’s festivities will begin at 11:30 AM with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on West 17th Street and Avenue of the Americas. This year’s honored Grand Marshals — Danny Tenaglia, Mercedes Ellington, Funmilayo Chesney, and David Parsons — will be recognized for their achievements and contributions to the world of dance. The ceremony will be followed by spirited performances to launch the parade.

At 12:00 PM, the parade will step off down Avenue of the Americas, featuring an incredible 150 dance groups. From global traditions representing Africa, South America, Asia, and Europe to contemporary urban genres like Majorette, Voguing, Breaking, and House, dancers will present a breathtaking blend of styles. Partner dances such as Lindy Hop, Ballroom, Salsa, Hustle, and Swing will also be prominently featured, creating a fusion of classic and modern choreography in a vibrant display of cultural unity.

Each participating group will have 40 seconds to showcase their unique art form as they pass the Grand Stand, creating what organizer Red Hayes refers to as a “42nd Street” style presentation — fast-paced, diverse, and spectacular.

This year’s programming reflects a strong focus on inclusivity and uplifting underrepresented communities. “The event brings together professional and student dancers alike in a stunning, inclusive, and joyous display,” said Parade Programming Lead Rush Johnston.

Following the parade, festivities continue at DanceFest in Tompkins Square Park. There, the public will enjoy performances on two stages, a teaching stage, site-specific works, and a lively dance party area featuring DJs spinning across various genres. Attendees can also take part in free dance classes offered by five dedicated studios led by some of New York’s most respected instructors, making the festival an interactive celebration of dance.

Founded in 2006, Dance Parade New York is a nonprofit organization that champions dance as a powerful form of artistic expression and a vital part of community culture. Supported by organizations such as the National Endowment for the Arts and the NYC Department of Cultural Affairs, Dance Parade offers educational programs and performance opportunities year-round. In addition to the flagship New York event, Dance Parade will debut a new event in Philadelphia later in the year.

The 2025 Grand Marshals bring prestige and inspiration to this year’s parade. Danny Tenaglia, a globally celebrated DJ and producer, Mercedes Ellington, a trailblazing dancer and advocate, Funmilayo Chesney, an acclaimed African dance educator and artist, and David Parsons, the visionary choreographer and founder of Parsons Dance, each represent the diverse heartbeat of the global dance community.

The 19th Annual Dance Parade and Festival promises an unforgettable day, blending world cultures, dance artistry, and inclusive community spirit in the heart of New York City.

New Yorkled’s been at a number of prior instances of this parade and it’s always been a thrill. We were there even when it was pouring cats and dogs. All that rain couldn’t hold us back. Even then it was a thrill. This year should be no different. 

Following is a video of past coverage: