The Coney Island Mermaid Parade is officially coming back this summer!
Can you hear us screaming with delight?
We hope you've been stocking up on glitter and nautical attire: The Coney Island Mermaid Parade returns to one of the best Brooklyn attractions for its 41st year!
Thousands of spectators flock to Surf Avenue—Coney Island’s main drag—each year to watch King Neptune and Queen Mermaid lead a procession of glittered semi-nude marchers in costumes during one of the best NYC events in June.
The annual event, started by Coney Island USA founder Dick Zigun in 1983, has become a neighborhood mainstay ever since. Read on for everything you need to know about the event from how to join, where and when the parade starts and more. Don’t miss your chance to enjoy a whimsical and wild afternoon at one of the best New York beaches!
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What is the Coney Island Mermaid Parade?
Half-naked mermaids and mermen and other creatures covered in glitter and scales invade the streets of Coney Island for this annual bacchanal by the sea.
When is the Coney Island Mermaid Parade?
The Coney Island Mermaid Parade is on Saturday, June 17, kicking off at 1pm.
Where is the Coney Island Mermaid Parade?
The Mermaid Parade begins at Surf Avenue and W 21st Street, traveling along Surf Avenue and the Boardwalk before ending at Steeplechase Plaza. For the best chance of getting a good spot, show up by 11am. Or if you’re willing to shell out $200, you can become a Coney Island USA member and snag a spot in the covered Judge’s Stands.
Who are King Neptune and Queen Mermaid this year?
Hip-hop recording artist Kool Keith and Laurie Cumbo, the Commissioner of Cultural Affairs for the City of New York, will serve as King Neptune and Queen Mermaid, respectively.
“Laurie Cumbo filled her Brooklyn district with art as a City Councilmember and strives in her new role to fill the entire city with art,” said Coney Island USA’s Artistic Director, Adam Rinn. “Having Kool Keith as the King of the Mermaid Parade is a dream come true, and our way of celebrating the 50th anniversary of hip-hop, born just north of Coney Island in the Bronx. Kool Keith is one of the most prolific and unique performers in hip-hop, and we’re thrilled that he’ll be part of the parade this year.”
In keeping with tradition, the King and Queen will be wheeled through the parade in an antique wicker boardwalk rolling chair from 1923. Then, at about 4pm, Rinn will lead them to the beach at 19th Street and the boardwalk for a ceremony formally opening the ocean for the summer swimming season.
How can I participate in the Coney Island Mermaid Parade?
You still have time: There are various registration levels—for families, “artsy marchers,” antique cars and more—and different fees apply for each one. All the details are available at Coney Island USA’s website. Be sure to stop by one of our favorite costume stores beforehand to get all the supplies you’ll need for a glitzy, glittery outfit.
There’s also an after-party! The Mermaid Parade Ball, hosted by Adam Realman, will feature live music from Kosha Dillz, The Coffin Daggers and Palmyra Delran & the Doppel Gang and performances from Ms. Coney Island - Maggie McMuffin, Nancy Nogood, Little Brooklyn, Shelly Watson, AuroraBoobRealis, Rain Supreme and Ilov Grate.
