The Coney Island Mermaid Parade, returning for its 43rd year on June 21, showcases around 5,000 participants who create lavish floats and costumes to celebrate ancient mythology and seaside rituals. This vibrant event, touted as the largest art parade in the U.S., is not just a display of creativity but also a platform for environmental messages concerning pollution and climate change. Longtime marchers express joy and a sense of community through shared traditions, with notable appearances by this year's Neptune King and Mermaid Queen leading the festivities.
The Mermaid Parade is a celebration of "ancient mythology and seaside ritual," and is one of Brooklyn's most beloved traditions.
Participants build and rebuild their glittering floats and costumes each year, showcasing their creativity and the event's new themes.
For some, the Mermaid Parade is pure fun, while others convey serious messages about environmental protection against pollution and climate change.
Jan Aiello remarked the parade is "the antidote to that 21st century despair," highlighting its role as a symbol of joy in New York.
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