One of the many amazing German Bands
Museum Mile on 5th Avenue was the setting for the 62nd annual Steuben Parade honoring German culture and a tribute to the Revolutionary War Hero, General Von Steuben. It was a festive celebration with several marching bands from Germany playing some traditional tunes. Marchers dressed in traditional attire from the region including Bavaria, Alsace, Austria and Swiss. A stage and reviewing stand was set up between 78th and 79th streets for parade VIPs and guests to welcome the happy marchers. As usual. the mounted police signaled the start of the parade. National anthems of both countries were played by the honorary marching band from Hamburg, Germany. Then the fun began with the marching band getting the crowd ready for a day of yodeling and all things German.
A Salute to the Great General Baron Von Steuben
Karnival marchers
Singing a Happy Tune
The Steuben serves to unite both German and Americans in different professions. German firefighters unite with NYFD German marchers. German police get to march with NYPD officers of German descent. Signs of unity were displayed all throughout the event. Of course the fun floats were all the bouncing beer floats. Perennial favorites of the parade are the doberman group which keeps growing each year. The Long Island Volkswagon car club with their classic cars and the Turners doing gymnastic feats. This year everyone was treated to an impressive Japanese yodeler. Still makes me nervous when the Germans and Japanese get together. But his time it was for a good cause.
Classic Bugs
Beer anyone?
Best Uniforms of the Parade
It’s always a treat to see the marching bands from Germany and near regions. Most notable were Kreisfeuerwehrmusik Celle, the St. Johannes Baptiste marching band and Nussdorf Salzburg Austria marching bands. They were incredible. But the marching band with the best uniforms goes to Jugend Musik Corps with replica War of 1812 uniforms. Closing out the marching bands were a cool band AKA Blas play I Could Have Danced All Night. Excellent selection. At the end end of the parade route on 86th St., most marchers turned right back around and headed to Central Park to continue the party at Oktoberfest.
NYC Parade Life 