How many cities can say they have a Mermaid Parade?

Well, we're New York...we have everything...so of course we do!

On Saturday, June 21st, head to Coney Island for the 43rd Annual Mermaid Parade. The event is the nation's largest art parade, and celebrates ancient mythology coupled with honky-tonk rituals of the seaside. Our artistic New York brothers and sisters are the stars of this event; they created it back in the day and keep it fresh year after year.

Here's what you need to know:

The parade starts at 1 p.m. rain or shine, on West 20st St. and Surf Avenue, a quick ride from the hotel on the F or D train. From there, it will roll east to West 10th St., and the marchers and push-pull floats, i.e., human-powered floats, will head to the boardwalk and continue on their way to Steeplechase Plaza.

No news on who will assume the title of King Neptune and Queen Mermaid this year, but rest assured, they will be wheeled through the parade as usual in an antique boardwalk rolling chair from 1923. Around 4 PM, they'll be led to the beach at 19th St. and the boardwalk for a ceremony formally opening the ocean for the summer swimming season.

And if you want to join in on this merry band of not-so-mis-fits, you certainly can. Head here to find out how.

Image via Wirestock/iStock