Norwegian Parade primed for another successful outing

Everyone loves a parade!

For the 63^rd year, the annual Norwegian Constitution Day Parade (aka the 17^th of May Parade) will make its way through Bay Ridge, on Sunday, May 17, this year.

Beginning at 1:30 p.m., the parade helps to keep alive the cultural heritage of Norway. Like most years, there is plenty of excitement being generated for the event.

“The theme is the celebration 1,000 years of Christianity,” said Victoria Hofmo, president of the Scandinavian East Coast Museum. “Bay Ridge is such an interesting community in transition but it is so stable and old school Brooklyn. It’s the oldest parade here. It’s over 60 years old. It’s great to see how the community comes together to celebrate.”

According to the 17^th of May Parade Committee, a number of local bands will provide music for the expected 100,000 spectators along the parade route and the O.L.PH Twirlers will perform.

In addition, numerous community groups will also participate. Little Miss Norway, Miss Norway of 2015 and Miss Heritage will also be making an appearance as will a float featuring a recreated Viking Ship.

“It’s a great way to celebrate each other,” added Arlene Rutuelo, co-chair of the parade committee. “This year’s grand marshal and main speaker is Jon Forrest Dohlin, director of the New York Aquarium. “He’s very excited to be a part of it.”

The parade will once again be marching on Third Avenue. The lineup will be at 81st Street and Third Avenue, beginning at 12:30 pm.  The parade will step off promptly at 1:30 p.m. and proceed north along Third Avenue to 69th Street, then make a right turn and march up 69th Street to Fifth Avenue.

At Fifth Avenue, participants will then make a left turn and march to 67th Street, where we will make a right turn and march up 67th Street past the grandstand, which will be located on the south side of Leif Ericson Park between Sixth and Seventh Avenues.

“The lineup is good and growing each year. It’s an exciting time for Scandinavians in New York,” added Rutuelo.

For more information on the parade, visit www.may17paradeny.com.