Baby parades were a beloved turn-of-the-century shore tradition — Coney Island's drew tens of thousands — and tiny bayside Hamilton Beach keeps the flame with its Labor Day procession of decorated wagons and toddlers in costume. It's pure small-town New York inside city limits: folding chairs on the curb, judges' ribbons, everyone knowing everyone. For photographers and Americana lovers, there's no more charming hour on the city's calendar.
What to expect
A short, slow procession of decorated strollers, wagons and bikes with kids in costume, followed by neighborhood festivities; spectators line the sidewalk and cheer every entrant. It's over by mid-afternoon, sunburned and happy.
Good to know
- Hamilton Beach sits beside Howard Beach — the A train's Howard Beach-JFK stop is the closest transit
- Free to watch; entries are local kids and families
- Bring a folding chair for curbside viewing
- Street parking disappears — walk in from Howard Beach if driving
- The route is short; arrive before the start to see the full lineup
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Common questions
What is a baby parade?
A century-old shore-town tradition where families parade decorated strollers, wagons and costumed young kids — part pageant, part block party.
Can we enter our child?
Entries are typically organized by the neighborhood civic association — locals sign up in advance; visitors are welcome to watch.
More festivals that weekend
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