Event:	Coney Island Mermaid Parade (2nd Shift) Share
Location:	Coney Island Side Show 1208 Surf Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11224
Date:	Jun 23rd 2012, 1:30 pm - 5:30 pm
Staff:	Manager: Laurie S
RSVP:	This event has already occurred

Event Description:

Celebrating its 30th anniversary, the Mermaid Parade is a completely original creation of Coney Island USA. It is the nation's largest art parade and one of New York City's greatest summer events. Founded in 1983 by Coney Island USA, the not-for-profit arts organization that also produces the Coney island Circus Sideshow, the Mermaid Parade pays homage to Coney Island's forgotten Mardi Gras which lasted from 1903 to 1954, and draws from a host of other sources resulting in a wonderful and wacky event that is unique to Coney Island. The Mermaid Parade celebrates the sand, the sea, the salt air and the beginning of summer, as well as the history and mythology of Coney Island, Coney Island pride, and artistic self-expression. Participants dress in hand-made costumes as Mermaids, Neptunes, various sea creatures, the occasional wandering lighthouse, Coney Island post card or amusement ride, as well as antique cars, marching bands, drill teams, and the odd yacht pulled on flatbed.

Coney Island USA:

Coney Island USA is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation based in the amusement park area of the Coney Island neighborhood of Brooklyn New York. In existence since 1983, Coney Island USA has developed and produces a number of different programs including some of New York Citys best loved summer programming, such as the Mermaid Parade and the Coney Island Circus Sideshow. Coney Island USA also operates the Coney Island Museum and produces Ask the Experts, Burlesque at the Beach, the Coney Island Tattoo and Motorcycle Festival, Creepshow at the Freakshow, and the Coney Island Sideshow School. Coney Island USA also produces the Coney Island Saturday Night Film Series and the Coney Island Film Festival in association with indiefilmpage.com