The 25th Annual Mermaid Parade, the largest art parade in the US, takes place this Saturday, June 23rd at Coney Island in Brooklyn. This year Adam Savage of Mythbusters has been crowned King Neptune and he will be on hand to help bust the myth that Coney Island is shutting down. Andy Wharhol protégé, actress Patti D’Arbanville, is this year’s Queen Mermaid.
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 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.
Following the parade is The 2007 Mermaid Parade Ball which will take place at the The Child’s Restaurant Building.
Related Posts:
- Coney Island Mermaid Parade 2007 Photos
- Coney Island Beard & Moustache Competition
- 2nd Annual San Francisco Mermayd Parade
- The 28th Annual St. Stupid’s Day Parade
- The Second Annual Forbidden Island Parking Lot Sale
{ 1 trackback }
{ 1 comment… read it below or add one }
Hello,
I just wanted to let everyone know about the performers for the 2007 Mermaid Parade Ball.
This year’s ball will feature performances from Jill Cunniff (Luscious Jackson), The Shapes, Mighty Fine, The Atomic Grind Show, and Aa (Big A little a), as well as the city’s best burlesque and sideshow acts.
Advance tix & costumes strongly recommended :)
http://www.mermaidparadeball.com.
Annie