Mermaids, Mermen and Merkids of the NYC Metro area gathered in a light drizzle to celebrate summer with dazzling costumes and tomfoolery in the 26th annual Coney Island Mermaid Parade.

The sky smiled on the festivities, halting the rain after a soggy beginning, until well after the participants had a chance to frolic in the surf. A Mermaid Ball was also held in a roller skating rink, but as I had left my trident and my skates at home I did not attend. By the way, how does a mermaid skate?

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The official website provides this description (which omits the frequent partial nudity, surely a draw for many spectators):

The Mermaid Parade celebrates the sand, the sea, the salt air and the beginning of summer, as well as the history and mythology of Coney Island, Coney Island pride, and artistic self-expression. The Parade is characterized by participants dressed in hand-made costumes as Mermaids, Neptunes, various sea creatures, the occasional wandering lighthouse, Coney Island post card or amusement ride, as well as antique cars, marching bands, drill teams, and the odd yacht pulled on flatbed.