1st easter parade in NYC

Easter in New York is famous for the lively procession of people strolling down Fifth Avenue in elaborate hats. The tradition began after the Civil War as a “fashion promenade,” when wealthy New Yorkers left their churches along Fifth Avenue and took a leisurely Easter Sunday walk, often stopping to dine or visit friends. Parishioners from St. Thomas Episcopal Church even carried Easter flowers to nearby St. Luke’s Hospital.

The stroll soon became a showcase for the latest fashions. Dressmakers and milliners sketched stylish outfits along the avenue, quickly inspiring department store trends. Hats decorated with flowers, ostrich feathers, and even taxidermy birds were especially popular.

Today, known as the Easter Parade and Bonnet Festival, the tradition continues with even more extravagant headwear—featuring bunny rabbits, towering flowers, glittering jewels, and colorful eggs—turning Fifth Avenue into a joyful celebration of creativity and spring.