Mermaid Parade Kicks Off Coney Island Summer with Queer Celebration

The Mermaid Parade, founded in 1983 by Dick Zigun, returned to Coney Island on Saturday as the unofficial start of summer. Despite financial difficulties in 2026, the event raised over $40,000 through crowdfunding. The parade featured King Neptune and Mermaid Queen Jessie Malin and Ricky Lee Jones, with FDNY firetrucks leading the procession. Participants and spectators alike donned elaborate nautical costumes, from fishnets and glitter to handmade kelp dresses. The parade also serves as an unofficial celebration of the queer community during Pride Month. Notable past queen Carole Radziwill (2013) was mentioned. Attendees included Olivia from Phoenix, Arizona, whose mother sewed her a flapper-inspired chartreuse dress, and Lara from Chelsea, a 20-year veteran of the parade.