The Mermaid Parade June 23, 2012

'The Mermaid Parade' is a completely original creation of Coney Island USA. 'The Mermaid Parade' is the nation's largest art parade and one of New York City's greatest summer events. The Parade will start at West 21st Street and Surf Avenue. Founded in 1983 by Coney Island USA, the 'Mermaid Parade' pays homage to Coney Island's forgotten Mardi Gras,which lasted from 1903 to 1954, and draws from a host of other sources resulting in a wonderful and wacky event that is unique to Coney Island. The Mermaid Parade celebrates the sand, the sea, the salt air and the beginning of summer, as well as the history and mythology of Coney Island, Coney Island pride, and artistic self-expression. The Parade is characterized by participants dressed in hand-made costumes as Mermaids, Neptunes, various sea creatures, the occasional wandering lighthouse, Coney Island post card or amusement ride, as well as antique cars, marching bands, drill teams, and the odd yacht pulled on flatbed. Each year, a different celebrity King Neptune and Queen Mermaid rule over the proceedings, riding in the Parade and assisting in the opening of the Ocean for the summer swimming season by marching down the Beach from the Boardwalk, cutting through Ribbons representing the seasons, and tossing fruit into the Atlantic to appease the Sea Gods.