Coney Island mermaid parade june 2025

Jun 28

The 43rd Annual Mermaid Parade.

Since 1983, hundreds of thousands of New Yorkers and visitors from across the country — and around the world — have headed to the Coney Island shore for Coney Island USA’s annual Mermaid parade

Article and images by Bridger Swinimer

Inspired by the Coney Island Mardi Gras parades of 1903 to 1954.

According to Wikipedia, Coney Island’s first Mermaid Parade took place in 1983, and it is now the largest art parade in the United States, attracting over 3,000 participants and hundreds of thousands of spectators.

Coney Island has a rich history of sideshows/freak shows, Amusement parks, destructive fires, sewage pollution, corrupt cops, iconic attractions, and unusual exhibitions including:

-Premature incubator baby displays by Martin Couney in 1920.

-Public execution of Topsy the elephant in 1903 by Frederick Thompson and Elmer Dundy to advertise the opening of their new park (Luna Park), by euthanizing Topsy and charging admission to see the spectacle.

-A boat ride that simulated a fiery shipwreck and the gates of hell, created by Samuel W. Gumpertz in 1905 at Dreamland, complete with flames and screams of terror.

Today, Coney Island is a mix of classic amusements, new attractions, and a growing arts scene. The boardwalk is still alive with rides, food stands, and crowds, while landmarks like the Wonder Wheel and Nathan’s Famous keep their vintage charm alive.

Although many old sideshows and parks are long gone, the area continues to celebrate its history through events like the Mermaid Parade, blending nostalgia with a fresh, creative spirit.

The boardwalk was filled with music coming from every corner. Creativity transforms Coney Island into a sweat drenched playground, where music, costumes, and human connection blend into an unforgettable celebration of community and the coming of summer.