The New York City Dance Parade

Love, love, love this event and the DanceFest in Tompkins Square Park that immediately follows. I participated in the parade a few times, and have also gone as a spectator. I love having an opportunity to try out different dances, see the costumes, learn about different cultures, and see performances– all for free! Whether I actually like the dancing or not, I feel like I learn something by observing, seeing the costuming, the expressions on the dancers’ faces, how they move their bodies, which dance forms are more fiery and which are extremely detail-​oriented and precise. I can have an appreciation for what each dancer does, even if it’s not necessarily my style. Watching the performers is a heart-​filling experience. It’s a must-​see!

I’m not sure why this is listed as midtown/Hell’s Kitchen as it takes place downtown. The parade is on 8^th St, and it culminates in Tomkins Park where there are several stages of dozens of dance performances happening all around. There is the main stage where the professionals perform, there is another stage where young dancers dance, there is a dancer in another corner doing her thing on a rope, another salsa corner, and so on and so forth. It’s definitely a sight, as everyone is walking around in their dance outfit, and you see so many different cultures coming together to celebrate their respective dances. It’s beautiful. I just wish the parade itself was better; it’s underwhelming, as you don’t hear much music and the dancers are just walking down the street rather than actually dancing. Nevertheless, it makes for a fun day and it’s a nice way to spend some time in the park with friends and fam while enjoying all the culture happening around you.

A way overdue review… but the NYC Dance Parade is one of the best times I’ve EVER had! It is by far the best parade in NYC! So many cultures, and diverse people having a blast down Broadway. Ballet, hip-​hop, cheering, salsa… you name it, you’ll see it! The festival at Tompkin Square Park was even better! Great people having a great time! I’m so glad I found Dance Parade this past May! I can’t wait for 2011!