What exactly is a Mermaid Parade

So you, like us, may wonder what the Mermaid Parade of Coney Island is all about. Well, Ed, Randy and I went today - and I still couldn't tell you exactly.
.
As the picture above shows, it is a family parade - where the people of Coney Island make their own costumes.

Some of the Mermaids - and their Thrones are a little over the top. There were Mermaids, Sea Creatures, Vampire Mermaids, etc.

There were also a lot of outfits that I might not consider appropriate for children, but it didn't seem to phase anyone. The young lady above had sea shells pasties pastied strategically.
.
If you want all the pics from Ed's camera - go here.