Mexican Day Parade

Most of the year, New York’s Mexican community is nearly invisible. To outsiders, its members appear to be no different than any of the other recently-arrived Latin American immigrants. But today is Mexican residents’ day to shine.

This afternoon the Mexican Day Parade (also known as the Mexican Independence Parade) was held on Madison Avenue between 26th and 42nd Streets. A relatively recent tradition, which celebrates Mexico’s independence from Spain, the annual event began in the 1990s and has grown larger every year.

Today a procession of lowriders (both the automotive and bicycle varieties) roared down the street, followed by floats, marching bands and a large contingent of Bolivian dancers. The weather was perfect, the crowd was enthusiastic, the mariachis played, the women danced and the kids were entranced. It was a great day for vendors selling anything in green, red and white (the colors of the Mexican flag), too.

Watching the parade

The queen of the parade

Young couple

Viva Mexico headband

Dancer

Boy with painted face

Sitting and watching

A dancer

Fascinated

Girl in the crowd

Boy holding flag

Drummers from marching band

Friends watching together

Proud papa

Peeking out from under police barrier

Holding a mask

Lowrider family

Stroller draped with sequined saint

Dancers leaping

Mini-Mexican

NY Times: Parade Dispute Is a Rite of Passage for Mexicans