I started filming at the pier, then right on the Coney Island boardwalk, all to the way to the NY Aquarium, about a 20 minute walk.

All along the walk I noticed people (39s) sitting, with their backs to the beach and the ocean, under umbrellas, in the high heat and humidity, blasting music from huge speakers. I’m unclear why they weren’t either on the beach or at home, enjoying the AC.

People (10s) were enjoying the beach and strolling on the boardwalk, waiting for the parade to start, but it was still early enough that the Luna Park and the Cyclone where not in full swing yet.

Everybody around me was in various stages of undress and I got caught up in the moment. I succumbed to peer pressure, removed my long-sleeve shirt, and walked around in a T-shirt. I should not have done that.

Unfortunately, when I film, I develop tunnel vision so I didn’t even notice what was happening to my poor arms until I was done filming, and by then it was too late. Luckily, I only suffered first-degree burns (yay, sunscreen?), painful and uncomfortable for a few days, but manageable.

The Mermaid Parade (30s) consists of people walking around in the cutest, most inventive sea-themed costumes, a ton of energy, dancing, and happiness. It is the perfect summer parade and I would definitely recommend it, if you can handle the heat. 

Speaking of heat, I was surprised by the number of exposed breasts at this parade. They were everywhere.

Granted, not everybody has Fitzpatrick type I skin like I do, but come on people, this is general knowledge: Breast skin is sensitive and shouldn’t be exposed to the midday sun willy-nilly. You could develop second degree burns on that part of the body, and that’s not something you want to deal with, ever.

[Here endeth your PSA for the day.]

This group gives you an idea of the general merriment (12s) at the parade. Even [some of] the NYPD officers (15s) stationed en route appreciated the enthusiasm. 

While editing the video I noticed that I had both a sword (4s) and a gun (7s) pointed at me while I was filming. Good thing I didn’t notice the gun until I was safe at home, but I still didn’t care for it. 

I think these ladies were related (sisters?), and I appreciate the effort they put into coordinated their outfits.

I really liked this group (45s), and I’m still a little miffed that I didn’t pay closer attention and managed to ruin a great shot – nice close-up of a drum being played, then slow pan up to the drummer, only to realize I have to cut most of it out because, of course, bare bosoms.

This was one of the best costumes (20s) at the parade, and my favorite. How she managed to look so good and not melt in that great ensemble remains a mystery.