The annual Coney Island Mermaid Parade is perhaps the consummate embodiment of Brooklyn’s weird and wonderfulness, certainly one of our best celebrations, and as it turns 30 this year, one of our greatest traditions. Whether you plan on parading in complete fin-and-flipper finery, or catching the show from the sidelines, the Mermaid Parade really is one of the best days you can have at the beach, and well worth braving the crowds. The Mermaid Ball follows the Parade at 7pm, and for $30 general admission features a DJ set by Moby, burlesque performers, go-go dancers, and a laser light show tent. Bump up to a $75 VIP ticket, and you also get an all-night open bar and food—tickets here.
