Coney Island's Mermaid Parade Dazzles 30,000 with Art and Celebration!

Coney Island, New York, USA - On June 21, 2025, Coney Island burst into life with the 43rd annual Mermaid Parade, a colorful spectacle that attracted over 30,000 enthusiastic spectators. The air was thick with excitement as more than 300 groups paraded down Surf Avenue, turning onto West 10th Street and finishing at the iconic Steeplechase Plaza. This event is no small feat; it’s recognized as the nation’s largest art parade and marks the unofficial start of summer in this lively Brooklyn neighborhood. As Brownstoner reports, the procession was a vibrant celebration of creativity and community.

This year’s parade featured a royal touch, with Eugene Hütz, the charismatic frontman of Gogol Bordello, crowned as King Neptune, while Queenie Sateen took on the role of Mermaid Queen. Both figures embodied the whimsical spirit of the event, where everything—from the costumes to the performances—speaks to the joy of artistic expression. Andre Thomas, a judge at the parade, highlighted the importance of community involvement, a sentiment echoed by many participants and attendees.

A Community Celebration

Among the sea of mermaids and mermen, Bambi the Mermaid—who has proudly donned her costume for 34 years—declared the parade a „high holy day“ for creatives. This year, her costume made a bold statement against a proposed casino in Coney Island, aligning with the parade’s poignant theme „Coney Island Forever.“ For families like Margarita Portalatin’s, the parade was a chance to relive childhood memories while supporting local businesses amidst the festivities.

As Carmen Figueroa, another reveler clad as a mermaid, aptly put it, the parade is the „biggest party“ in New York City. Adding to the rhythmic heartbeat of the event was Fogo Azul, who marched with 104 drummers, amplifying the vibrant atmosphere and drawing even more cheers from the crowd.

A Legacy of Creativity

The Mermaid Parade, created by Dick Zigun, the former Artistic Director of Coney Island USA, has blossomed since its inception in 1983, celebrating a century of Coney Island’s creativity and pageantry. Produced by the 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, this iconic event showcases not only the artistry of mermaids and sea creatures but also features marching bands, dancing groups, baby strollers, and mechanized floats. As detailed by Coney Island USA, it is a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit and community pride that fuels this beloved summer celebration.

The Mermaid Parade doesn’t just provide entertainment; it plays a crucial role in enhancing the economic landscape of Coney Island, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors and rejuvenating local businesses. Alongside public support from the NYC Department of Cultural Affairs and the City Council, this parade has solidified its status as a major cultural event that brings everyone together.

As we prepare for the next Mermaid Parade on June 24, 2024, which will again bring a festive atmosphere to the area, one thing is clear: the spirit of the Mermaid Parade is alive, and it continues to inspire generations. With its rich history and vibrant celebrations, it’s a joyous reminder that there is always something to celebrate in Coney Island.