The beloved Mermaid Parade returned to Coney Island this past weekend…

WOW-lebrity photographer, Ruben Natal-San Miguel captured the scantily clad mermaids & mermen (not Ethel), mythical beings and sea creatures of all ages, shapes and genders.

This year, the honor of Queen Mermaid and King Neptune was bestowed upon singer-songwriter and actor Mx. Justin Vivian Bond and Dr. Dave A. Chokshi, former commissioner at the city’s Department of Health and Mental Hygiene.. 

The parade marked its milestone 40th anniversary after COVID forced the cancellation of the event the past two years.

The parade’s parent non-profit organization, Coney Island USA, was established in 1980 and its mission is to protect and preserve the history of the neighborhood’s amusements and unique artforms.

The group produces a number of event each year, including The Coney Island Circus Sideshow and Burlesque at the Beach and operates the Coney Island Museum, Sideshow by the Seashore and the Shooting Gallery/Arts Annex. 

(Photographs, Ruben Natal-San Miguel)