The 2011 Coney Island Mermaid Parade

The 28th annual Mermaid Parade of Coney Island is almost upon us. This Saturday, June 18, 2011 at 2pm, more than a thousand mermaids, sea gods, and ocean creatures will march down West 21st Street and Surf Avenue, alongside floats and antique cars, all the way to the Coney Island boardwalk in celebration of the impending summer.

Created in 1983 by non-profit arts organization 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.” Spectators come from all over New York and afar to view the spectacular sea costumes, makeup, and wardrobe (or lackthereof). Even if one is not registered to walk in the parade, there is still an opportunity as a watcher to be festive and dress up.

A celebrity King Neptune and Queen Mermaid preside over the parade each year. Past notables include Lou Reed, Laurie Anderson, Queen Latifah, Moby, David Johansen, and Harvey Keitel. This year’s King Neptune will be Brooklyn native Adam Richman from the Travel Channel’s Man V. Food. Queen Mermaid will be Cat Greenleaf from the New York Emmy Award winning television show, Talk Stoop with Cat Greenleaf.

The parade will end around 5:30pm, once parade founder Dick D. Zigun leads the marine procession to the beach for the opening of the Ocean for the summer swimming season. Right after the parade disperses, there will be an awards ceremony at the Mermaid Parade Ball (The Official After Party of the Mermaid Parade) at the New York Aquarium just down the street from the parade. Information on the ball and how to get tickets can be found by clicking here.

To check out this year’s Mermaid Parade, it is best to arrive early to secure a nice spot on the boardwalk or Surf Avenue, although stragglers will not be turned away. Organizers recommend taking the subway (D, F, N or Q subway to Stillwell Avenue) as opposed to driving, to avoid car congestion during the busy parade. The event is kid-friendly as well, with many children adorned in costumes, makeup, and seashell jewelry. However, keep in mind that nudity among adults is present during the parade, as sea creatures do not wear much clothing!

For more information on Coney Island and this parade, please click here.

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