NEW YORK — Thousands of people lined Fifth Avenue from 44th Street to 79th Street in Manhattan on Sunday, celebrating the National Puerto Rican Day Parade in style.
In the sea of the island nation’s flags, parade goers enjoyed colorful floats, performances and music, all amid much cheering.
“There’s nothing like the Puerto Rican Day Parade in New York,” said Lilian Nieves Cruz of Manhattan.
“I love the people. I love the vibrations, I love the great atmosphere,” said Leanna Salinas of Midtown.
Everyone brought a lot of energy to the 67th annual parade and this year’s theme, “Boricua de Corazon,” or Puerto Rican “from the Heart.”
“Puerto Rico has been in my heart since I was a child. My parents, abuelos, familia instilled a love for our island, traditions and history. Viva Puerto Rico!” said Marissa Alvarez of the Bronx.
‘They help make the city what it is’
Officials, including New York Governor Kathy Hochul and New York Mayor Eric Adams, moved along the route.
“It shows the spirit and energy of the Puerto Rican community, which has over 700,000 people in the city. They help make the city what it is,” Adams said.
The iconic parade has been taking place in Manhattan for almost seventy years and is known as America’s largest celebration of Puerto Rican heritage.
“I’ve been coming here since I was six years old,” Christina Lopez said.
“I always spread ‘Viva Puerto Rico’, always,” said another person.
