The National Dominican Day Parade Is Returning To NYC This Weekend

The National Dominican Day Parade (NatDDP) is an essential cultural NYC event that unfortunately hasn’t been the same the past two years–the 2020 parade was completely virtual while last year’s parade was a hybrid event.

Thankfully, this year’s parade is scheduled to be fully in person, and it’s marching down 6th Avenue this Sunday, August 14.

The parade is a tradition beloved by the Dominican community, but for nonprofit Dominican Day Parade, Inc. who organizes the event, it’s actually much more than a parade. Throughout the year, this nonprofit holds various events including food drives, an annual gala, and parade kick-off events in all five boroughs. They also provide scholarships and mentor opportunities to exceptional students of Dominican descent.

Here’s everything else you need to know about the parade:

What is the National Dominican Day Parade?

The National Dominican Day Parade was started to celebrate the richness of the Dominican culture, folklore, and popular traditions. The Parade highlights, promotes, and acknowledges the heritage and contributions of the Dominican community in the U.S. and throughout the world. This year the parade is celebrating its 40th anniversary.

When is the Parade taking place in 2022?

The National Dominican Day Parade usually takes place the second Sunday of August. This year it falls on Sunday, August 14. 

What time is the Parade?

The parade begins at 1 p.m. and usually lasts until about 4p.m.

What is the Parade route?

The parade marches down NYC’s 6th Avenue from 38th Street to 56th Street.

Who is the Grand Marshal this year?

This year’s Grand Marshal is NYC Department of Transportation Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez. There are also a number of special parade honorees including: PIX11 TV Producer Veronica Rosario, President of the Dominican Bar Association Doralyn De Dios, American’s Got Talent contestant Jessica Jayy Nunez, and many more — you can see the full list here.

If I can’t attend in person, where else can I watch it?

The celebration will be broadcast live on ABC 7 New York, starting at 1p.m. EDT.