Thousands braved Saturday morning's sweltering heat for the 42nd annual Coney Island Mermaid Parade in Brooklyn.
The neighborhood was awash in a sea of color as crowds of paradegoers in sparkly, ocean-themed costumes packed Surf Avenue and bands played.
The parade’s honorary hosts – known as King Neptune and and Queen Mermaid – were husband and wife Joe Coleman and Whitney Ward, artists who have attended the parade for over 30 years. Organizers call the event, which began in 1983, a "unique, artistic celebration," and it's considered to mark the start of Coney Island's summer season.
"It's the official opening of summer," paradegoer Brian Dillon said. "Every year the season here gets pushed earlier, like it was Memorial Day, now it's Easter. But this is like the real kickoff for the summer season."
The parade also evokes Coney Island's past Mardi Gras celebrations, which lasted from 1903 to 1954.
Dillon said the parade, which is known for the imaginative marine costumes worn by participants, is "always unpredictable, and people are just so creative and so into it."
Jessica Dye was also among the crowd on Saturday.
"I just wanted to dress up like a shrimp and be surrounded by my fellow crustaceans," Dye said.
Dye estimates she's attended the parade around three or four times, but said one thing especially surprised her this year.
"How much body paint people are wearing, because it is like 90 degrees," Dye said. "I am impressed with the makeup and body paint commitment."
Paradegoers Dirty Martini, Steven Menendez and JC Augustine walking toward the start of the parade route.
Paradegoers continuing east toward the boardwalk.
A Mermaid Parade drum line fills the streets with music.
Summer Strands entering the artist’s check-in at the Mermaid Parade at Coney Island.
Heather Woodfield and Jamie Leo’s DIY recycled marine decor.
Irina Float and Kevin Allen Kevin wave to the crowd.
Amanda Sharp and Matt Kugelman spent a few hours on makeup prior to coming to the parade.
