The 30th Annual Coney Island Mermaid Parade, the largest art parade in the United States, takes place June 23, 2012 starting at 2 PM. This year’s parade features Annabella Sciorra as the Queen Mermaid and Jackie “The Joke Man” Martling as King Neptune. The 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 Mermaid Parade is followed by the The Mermaid Parade Ball at the New York Aquarium starting at 7 PM. This year’s ball will feature a DJ set by Moby. Tickets are available to purchase now (21+).
Founded in 1983 by Coney Island USA, the not-for-profit arts organization that also produces the Coney island Circus Sideshow, 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 Official 2012 30th Anniversary Mermaid Parade Poster, designed by Martin Mazorra from Cannonball Press
