Coney Island USA facts for kids
Landmark building, once a Childs Restaurants branch
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| Established | 1980 Brooklyn, New York, U.S. |
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| Type | Art, cultural |
| Founder | Costa Mantis, Jane Savitt-Tennen, Dick D. Zigun |
Coney Island USA is a special group that helps make the Coney Island area in Brooklyn, New York City, a lively and fun place. It started in 1980. This group works to bring back the fun and culture of Coney Island.
Their main building is right in the middle of Coney Island's amusement park area. Inside, they have a theater. Here, they put on a show called "Sideshows by the Seashore." This show features performers with amazing and unusual talents. It runs all through the warmer months. The building also has the Coney Island Museum. Coney Island USA is also famous for organizing the yearly Coney Island Mermaid Parade. The first parade happened in 1983.
What is Coney Island USA?
Coney Island USA is a "not-for-profit" organization. This means they don't try to make money for owners. Instead, any money they earn goes back into their programs. They are dedicated to bringing back the culture and fun of the Coney Island neighborhood. They want to make it a great place for everyone to visit and enjoy.
Fun Shows and Museum
The "Sideshows by the Seashore" is a unique show. It features performers who do incredible and sometimes strange acts. Think of it like an old-fashioned circus sideshow, but updated for today. It's a place where unusual talents are celebrated.
The Coney Island Museum is also part of Coney Island USA. This museum shows off items and memories from the amusement park. It also covers the history and culture of the beach and the whole neighborhood. They often have new art and culture exhibits too. The museum is open during certain times of the year.
The Mermaid Parade
One of the biggest events organized by Coney Island USA is the annual Mermaid Parade. This is a very creative and colorful parade. People dress up in amazing costumes, often inspired by mermaids, sea creatures, and Coney Island's history. It's a huge celebration that brings many people to the area.
How it Started
Coney Island USA was started in 1980. Three people helped create it: Costa Mantis, Jane Savitt-Tennen, and Dick D. Zigun. They wanted to make sure Coney Island's unique spirit lived on.
The group gets help from different places to keep its programs going. Some of their funding comes from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs. They also get support from the New York Council for the Humanities. Local leaders like Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams and New York City Councilman Mark Treyger have also helped support Coney Island USA.
See also
- In Spanish: Coney Island USA para niños
