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CONEY ISLAND, BROOKLYN

The Coney Island Mermaid Parade

Mermaids, sea monsters and brass bands open summer on the Boardwalk, then everyone follows them into the sea.

A mermaid in a rainbow wig and sequined tail throws her arms up on the Coney Island boardwalk, the crowd behind her in black and white
Photo: LovelyNYC

More photos

  • A pink-haired mermaid in a green shell top walks the Coney Island boardwalk past the parade crowd
    Photo: LovelyNYC
  • A smiling mermaid with seafoam hair, a hibiscus crown and glittered lashes at the Mermaid Parade
    Photo: LovelyNYC
  • A paradegoer in a turban, body paint and shell top in the Mermaid Parade crowd
    Photo: LovelyNYC

On a Saturday in June, Coney Island fills with mermaids, sea creatures, King Neptunes, marching bands and homemade floats for the Mermaid Parade, the city's great summer-opening art parade. Coney Island USA has produced it since 1983, when its founder Dick Zigun dreamed it up as a revival of the old Coney Island Mardi Gras parades. The costumes are handmade, often brilliant and occasionally barely there.

The 2026 parade, the 44th, took place on June 20; the next is expected in June 2027. It starts at West 21st Street and Surf Avenue, rolls east to West 10th Street, then climbs onto the Boardwalk and ends under the Parachute Jump. Afterward a procession heads to the beach, where a ceremony opens the ocean for the summer swimming season, and anyone can follow. Stake out a spot on the Boardwalk early, bring water and sunscreen, and leave the car at home. To march, register with Coney Island USA in the spring.

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Editorial draft — core details last reviewed October 19, 2026. Confirm practical details with the official site before you go.