Sea captains, sailors, pirates, wenches, mermaids and all kinds of slithery sea creatures escaped from the Atlantic Ocean just for a few hours to make their way to Surf Ave. where the 41st annual Mermaid Parade was getting under way. Thousands of costumed marchers walked or danced in front of panel of judges in the hopes of getting selected as top prize winners. Entrants are encouraged to bribe judges for favorable results. It goes on all the time. Each year the honor of King and Queen Mermaid are bestowed upon individuals that have some ties to Brooklyn. This year King Kool Keith and Queen Laurie Cumbo had the honors.
Thousands of marchers and dancing groups came out to make this one of the best parades of the year. It really showcases artistry at its best. Many of these costumes were designed by the individuals wearing them. The Mermaid Parade is not just about sea creatures and bringing in the summer in style. The parade also pays tribute to the Vaudeville era of acting and entertainment. There were plenty of New Orleans style Brass Bands that really got the crowd worked up. Two of the groups that really stood out were the perennial favorites of LTrain Brass Band and the Hungry March Band that shows how it’s done Mermaid style. Two all-female drum bands were amazing. Batala got the parade started and Fogo Azul closed out the parade with their thunderous beats.
Dance groups come prepared to get the crowd worked up. The local entry were the Swedish Fish with tribute to ABBA but the best crowd pleaser year in and year out are The Tailshakers with their tribute to Donna Summer, the Queen of Dance. Each year the costumes keep getting more elaborate and truly shows NY creativity at its best. The Mermaid Parade is a NYC institution that celebrates the start of summer.
NYC Parade Life 
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