Uniquely NYC
Easter Parade
The NYC Easter Parade is a tradition that goes back to the mid 1880-s,
when the city's elite would attend services at one of several Fifth
Avenue churches and show off their new fashion choices afterwards. Less
fortunate New Yorkers would come out to see what the latest trends were
for the wealthy. The parade also became a source of inspiration for the
city's fashion savvy seamstresses, who were inspired by many of the
useful new ideas displayed. In the days prior to television when only
the wealthiest could afford to attend elaborate fashion shows, the
Easter Parade was a combination of religious services and haute couture.
Fashion is still present in the modern day parades. However, the styles
range from simply elegant to downright outrageous. Often outfits are
accentuated with live animals, the latest in pet fashions, the most
grotesque display of bonnets, civil war era costumes, and finally, the
latest high fashion. It is A medley of styles, colors and fantasy. Still
the parade is quite democratic in nature - you don't need a special
outfit to join in the fun. Observers and participants alike can simply
step out and stroll down Fifth Avenue to enjoy the festivities.
The Easter Parade formally begins at 10am and continues through most of
the day. It begins near St. Patrick's Cathedral on 49th Street and goes
up Fifth Avenue to 57th Street. The area is closed to traffic. People
from around the world come to NYC to participate in this unique and
extravagant event.