Damn Fresh Pics

The Mermaid Parade typically takes place on the Saturday closest to the beginning of summer as the event is, in part, meant to celebrate the beginning of summer. The first Mermaid Parade was held in 1983, and has been an integral part of Coney Island life ever since. There are often thousands of parade participants, and hundreds of thousands of people who come out to snap pictures and take in the parade. Along with kicking off the summer, the Mermaid Parade originated to help continue the tradition of Mardi Gras-like events that were often held on Coney Island in the first half of the 20th century. Artistic self expression is also a highly encouraged part of the parade, and Mermaid Parade observers are likely to see mermaids, mermen, and a wide variety of other sea creatures. The Mermaid Parade also features local celebrities who take on the coveted roles of King Neptune and a Queen Mermaid each year. This year the 'Mermaid Parade' took place on Saturday, 19 June 2010.