Coney Island Mermaid Parade
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The 'Coney Island Mermaid Parade' began in 1983. Started by Dick Zigun founder of the Coney Island USA. The Mermaid Parade celebrates the start of the Summer season, and plays homage to original Coney Island Mardi Gras parades in the early 20th century. It has taken place annually on the first Saturday of summer, Rain or Shine. The parade may attract a couple of thousand participants and well over 100's of thousands of spectators, some of which traveled to Coney Islands beaches to escape the heat that usually marks this day. The parade pays tribute to the grand days of Coney Island when it was the premiere amusement destination in the New York City Area. Next to the annual Village Halloween Parade, the mermaid parade is closest New York has to a Mardi Gras.
What makes the Mermaid parade popular are the costumes or lack there of, and general good spirits all around. There is a section for vehicles of all kinds, floats, groups and individuals. Mermaids and sea creatures of all shapes and sizes enjoy a welcoming, festive crowd. Presiding over the parade are a mermaid King and Queen. In 2005 the King was David Johansen (Buster Poindexter) and the Queen was Karmen Guy (Mad Juana). Other years David Byrne, Queen Latifah, and Moby have filled the royal seats. The organizers encourage bribery to increase the chances of winning the costume contests.
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