What is an Easter Bonnet parade?

What is an Easter Bonnet parade?

Officially known as the Easter Parade and the Easter Bonnet Festival, the parade was an informal, often unorganized event. People were seen leaving church Easter morning in their finest clothes and would stroll down Fifth Avenue. Quickly, more people and churches began to join in.

Where did the Easter Bonnet originate?

Bonnets are part of long tradition of wearing new clothes on Easter that originated in parts of Europe, such as Great Britain. In fact, the tradition even dates back to Shakespearean times, as an “Easter suit” is referenced in “Romeo and Juliet.”

Was there really an Easter Parade in New York City?

New York City's Easter Parade and Bonnet Festival is a popular tradition of parading in outrageous Easter bonnets (hats) on Fifth Avenue in front of St Patrick's Cathedral on Easter Sunday.

What is the history of the Easter Parade?

The tradition of the Easter parade began after the Civil War as a “fashion promenade,” rooted in the custom of a Sunday walk following religious service. Wealthy New Yorkers would emerge from their respective houses of worship along Fifth Avenue to stroll down the street, dine at hotels nearby, or pay social calls.

What does an Easter bonnet look like?

Nowadays a traditional child's Easter bonnet is usually white, wide-brimmed hat with a pastel colored satin ribbon wrapped around it and tied in a bow. It may also have flowers or other springtime motifs on top, and may match a special dress picked out for the occasion.

Was there a real Easter Parade?

The Easter parade is an American cultural event consisting of a festive strolling procession on Easter Sunday. ... Starting as a spontaneous event in the 1870s, the New York parade became increasingly popular into the mid-20th century—in 1947, it was estimated to draw over a million people.

What are bonnets meant for?

A bonnet is an old-fashioned hat that ties under the chin. ... A bonnet isn't stiff like many hats are — instead, it's made of soft fabric and has no brim. It was common during the 17th and 18th centuries for women to wear bonnets, to keep their hair tidy and protected from dust and sun when they were outdoors.

Why were Easter bonnets popular in the 1870s?

Wearing a bonnet specifically designed for Easter became popular after the Civil War. After the civil war, to boost community spirit, parades began to gain popularity. ... In New York in the 1870s, it became popular to walk down 5th Avenue on Easter Sunday to showcase your Sunday best.

Where is the most famous Easter Parade held?

New York City The Easter parade is most closely associated with Fifth Avenue in New York City, but Easter parades are held in many other cities. Starting as a spontaneous event in the 1870s, the New York parade became increasingly popular into the mid-20th century—in 1947, it was estimated to draw over a million people.

When did the New York City Easter Parade first become a tradition?

31) When did the New York City Easter Parade first become a tradition? Starting as a spontaneous event in the 1870s, the New York Easter parade became increasingly popular in the mid-20th century--in 1947, it was estimated to draw over a million people.