East Harlem.Com

East Harlem - January 7, 2009.  El Museo Del Barrio’s 33rd Annual Three Kings Day Parade was held today in East Harlem.  The parade seemed larger than ever, with more participants joining in the parade itself and with even more participants cheering them on.  El Museo out did itself this year.  The new Kings were as gorgeous as they were tall Those walking under them did so with grace.

Parade favorites like the live Camels and Sheep were there.  So were local East Harlem Organizations, such as Hope Community, Inc. Union Settlement, The East Harlem Tutorial Program, The Cardinal Cook Center, and the Museum of the City of New York, The Children’s Aid Society, The New York Public Library, to name just a few.  Local schools also joined in the fun such as Amber Charter School, Young Scholars Academy, and PS 83.

Many local officials were not present at the parade, mostly due to being in session in Albany, NY.  State Senator Jose Serrano sent his district office to represent him as did Assemblyman Adam Powell IV. The Mayor did not show this year.  He is no longer running for Mayor, so I guess he does not feel it necessary to attend the parade.  It makes one feel used that some elected officials only show up when they are running for office. Enough said.  Democratic Female District Leader Yvette Zayas spent the parade on the major parade float. As always, the highly colorful gentleman with his dog was there. As was good sunny weather.  Though it was a bit on the chilly side.

The parade had a slightly different route this year.  It started at East 106 Street and Park Avenue, headed East till it reached East 106 Street and Third Avenue where it turned North till it reached East 112th Street and Third where it made a left and headed West.  The parade then turned back and headed south upon reaching Lexington Avenue and 112th Street.  It turned West when it reached East 106th Street and Lexington Avenue, back toward Park Avenue. This write is not sure why the parade did not proceed to East 116th Street. Does anyone out there know?

The parade was a huge success.  The Floats, the animals, the Music, were all great.  El Museo should be congratulated on organizing and putting on such a big event for the community. Thanks!!!