Styling at the Steuben
You know it’s the end of summer when the Steuben Parade heads up 5th Ave. in honor of the contributions of many German Americans going all the way back to our nation’s founding when Baron Von Steuben helped win the Revolutionary War. This tradition, now in its 58th year, brings unity with Germans from the homeland and German Americans from the US in celebration of culture, music, costume, dance, nice cars and lots of beer floats. One of the best parts of this parade is when the German marching bands play some tunes for the devoted fans on the parade route from 68th to 86th. It’s great to see and hear the contrasting styles of German and American bands. The crowd really got into it especially when the band from Stuttgart played. The Musikverein Mohringen band were just warming things up for some of the larger bands soon to follow. There were many language groups and community groups representing German culture… and did I mention lots of beer floats. Perennial parade favorites are the Long Island Volkswagon club and the Doberman Pinscher dog club and they did not disappoint.
German Band Having Fun
Colonial Acrobats
Beer Float Party Going On Here
The traditional costumes were simply amazing this year. There was an elegant appeal to some of he costumes as men were in top hats and tuxedos. For a second thought they were on the way to a wedding at the Boat House in Central Park. There was another group dressed in colonial times attire that displayed some acrobatic flair. They were fun. In their first year at the parade was a loud band with a chorus from Hopfingen. A newer darker group were the chimney sweepers but their gloominess was quickly chased by what else …another beer float. By far the best band to play were actually two bands from Shutzen and Musikzug Sudsauerland. When the first band finished playing their tune, the second band followed right in step. They were a special treat for all the parade revelers. It was great to see a kindred spirit between German police and firefighters shared with NY’s Finest and Bravest. All in all it was a fun parade to attend and the marchers made their way into Central Park for Oktoberfest where there were more live bands, lots of dancing and what else….more beer.
See you next year..
NYC Parade Life 