By: Dennis Richmond, Jr.
The sights and sounds of Hispanic culture filled the streets of Yonkers on Sunday, June 1, 2025, during the annual Puerto Rican/Hispanic Day Parade and Festival. Beginning at the corner of South Broadway and McLean Avenue and culminating near the intersection of Nepperhan Avenue and New Main Street in the Getty Square section of the city, the parade drew a crowd that spanned generations, boroughs, and even state lines.
With colorful flags waving high and vehicles decked out in bright lights, the energy was infectious. Attendees traveled from across the region—some from as far as Pennsylvania and New Jersey—to take part in this beloved celebration of Puerto Rican and broader Hispanic heritage.
“It’s a beautiful thing. Everybody coming together. It feels good,” said Sadé Gil, a longtime community advocate who was all smiles throughout the event. She echoed the sentiment shared by many in attendance, who praised the parade for bringing people together in joy and unity.
The streets were lined with spectators, from politicians greeting constituents to families cheering on performers. Young children danced, stood still, or stared in awe to get a better view of the festivities. Volunteers handed out flyers, and local businesses joined in the celebration with food, merchandise, and music.
Michael Stephens, a lifelong Yonkers resident, was among the crowd and noted the event’s power to reconnect people. “I know her,” he said. “It reminds you of the strength of our community.”
Also in attendance was Isaiah Latimer, 28, from Far Rockaway, Queens. Snapping photos of the scene, he admitted with a smile, “I feel like a tourist.” His reaction spoke to the magnetic atmosphere of the day, where even first-time visitors felt welcomed and immersed in the celebration.
The Yonkers Puerto Rican/Hispanic Day Parade is more than a festive march—it’s a living expression of culture, resistance, and resilience, rooted in African and Caribbean traditions. With music, dance, and food, the parade continues to honor the past while celebrating the present.
In a city that prides itself on diversity, events like this serve as a powerful reminder of what makes Yonkers special. As the community continues to grow, so too does its commitment to celebrating every culture that calls it home.
