New Yorkers are gearing up for a vibrant celebration this weekend as the annual Easter Parade and Bonnet Festival takes center stage on Fifth Avenue. This beloved event, known for its colorful hats and festive atmosphere, will take place on Sunday, April 20, 2025, and is expected to draw crowds of enthusiastic participants and spectators alike.
The Easter Parade, which dates back to the 1870s, has evolved from a religious observance into a lively showcase of fashion and creativity. Originally, the Gilded Age elite would attend Easter mass at St. Patrick’s Cathedral and stroll down Fifth Avenue to display their Sunday best. According to Times Square, the event gained significant popularity after the release of the 1948 film "Easter Parade," starring Judy Garland and Fred Astaire, which helped cement the tradition in American culture.
This year, the parade will kick off at 10 a.m. following the Easter mass at St. Patrick’s Cathedral, which lasts approximately one hour. The procession typically continues until 4 p.m., providing ample time for revelers to enjoy the festivities. The parade route begins outside St. Patrick’s Cathedral on 50th Street and marches north along Fifth Avenue to 57th Street.
What makes the Easter Parade particularly special is its inclusivity. Unlike many other parades, anyone is welcome to join in the fun, donning their most extravagant bonnets and costumes. Pets are also encouraged to participate, especially if they are dressed up in their own festive attire. The best viewing spots for spectators are right at the start of the parade near St. Patrick’s Cathedral or right in the thick of the march.
In addition to the parade, St. Patrick's Cathedral will host multiple Easter Masses throughout the day, starting as early as 7 a.m. and concluding with a service at 5:30 p.m. The 10 a.m. Mass is particularly significant, as it coincides with the start of the parade, but tickets are required for attendance. The 4 p.m. service will be conducted in Spanish, catering to the diverse community that makes up New York City.
This year’s Easter Parade promises to be a colorful and joyous occasion, celebrating not just the holiday but the spirit of New York City itself. As Cardinal Timothy Dolan, the Archbishop of New York, noted during a recent event, the Easter celebrations wrap up the Holy Week festivities, which began with Palm Sunday on April 13. This year, Holy Thursday saw the Cardinal attending a food distribution event in the Bronx, while Good Friday featured a solemn procession over the Brooklyn Bridge.
The Easter Parade and Bonnet Festival is not just a fashion show; it’s a community gathering that reflects the vibrant culture of New York City. Whether you're a local or a visitor, the event offers a perfect opportunity to experience the city's unique blend of tradition and creativity. As the day approaches, excitement is building, and many are already planning their outfits, eager to take part in this cherished tradition.
So, if you’re in New York City this Easter Sunday, don’t miss out on the chance to witness the colorful spectacle of the Easter Parade and Bonnet Festival. Put on your best bonnet, grab your friends and family, and join the march down Fifth Avenue for a day filled with fun, fashion, and festive cheer!
