Puerto Rican Day Parade facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Puerto Rican Day Parade(also known as the National Puerto Rican Day Parade) |
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| Status | Active |
| Genre | Parade |
| Frequency | 2nd Sunday of June |
| Venue | Fifth Avenue, Manhattan, New York City |
| Country | United States |
| Previous event | June 12, 2022 |
| Next event | June 9, 2024 |
| Sponsor | National Puerto Rican Day Parade, Inc. (since 1995) |
| Website | , official website of the National Puerto Rican Day Parade, Inc. |
The Puerto Rican Day Parade is a big yearly event in the United States. It takes place on Fifth Avenue in Manhattan, a part of New York City. This special parade happens on the second Sunday in June. It celebrates the people of Puerto Rico and everyone of Puerto Rican background living in the U.S. mainland.
Many famous people, including those with Puerto Rican roots, come to the parade. Important politicians from the Tri-State area also attend. This parade is the only Latino heritage parade on famous Fifth Avenue. It is also the oldest and longest-running Latino heritage parade in New York City.
The parade route goes along Fifth Avenue from 44th Street to 86th Street. It has become one of the biggest parades in the United States. By 2007, nearly four million people watched it every year. While New York City has the largest Puerto Rican parade, other cities like Philadelphia, Chicago, and Boston also have their own parades and festivals to celebrate Puerto Rican culture.
History of the Puerto Rican Day Parade
The very first Puerto Rican Day Parade happened on Sunday, April 13, 1958. It took place in Manhattan. Before this, there was a different parade called the Hispanic Day Parade. The change to a Puerto Rican Day Parade helped celebrate specific cultural traditions.
In 1995, the parade became known as the National Puerto Rican Day Parade. It also grew to include more than just the parade itself. Now, there are over seven major events that happen around the city as part of the celebration.
Many other events also take place during the parade weekend. These are not officially sponsored by the National Parade group. One of the oldest is a street fair held the day before the parade. This fair has always been centered around 116th Street, between Lexington and Second Avenues. Besides the big parade in New York City, there are more than fifty smaller Puerto Rican parades across the United States.
Honoring Celebrities and Leaders
The parade has attracted many New York politicians. These include former mayor Michael Bloomberg, former mayor Rudy Giuliani, Governor Andrew Cuomo, and Senator Charles Schumer. Many people running for office also attend, hoping to connect with voters.
In recent years, the parade has honored several Puerto Rican celebrities. They are named "International Grand Marshal" of the parade. For example, singer Marc Anthony participated with his former wife Jennifer Lopez. Ricky Martin was also a Grand Marshal in 2007 and 2010.
In 2009, the famous TV actor Osvaldo Ríos was chosen as the parade's "Special Guest Star."
Besides a National Grand Marshal, many other people are honored at the parade. They receive titles like "King," "National Ambassador of La Salsa," and "National Godmother." In June 2004, Puerto Rican rapper Ivy Queen was named the "Puerto Rico Youth Godmother" of the parade. Other famous artists like Wisin & Yandel and Willie Colón have also received special titles.
Parade Safety and Community Focus
The organizers of the Puerto Rican Day Parade work hard to make sure everyone has a safe and fun time. They focus on creating a positive environment for all participants and spectators. The parade is a time for the community to come together and celebrate their heritage.
