The National Dominican Day Parade 2026.
Photo by Dean Moses
Thousands gathered in Midtown on Sunday for the 44th annual National Dominican Day Parade, held under the theme “Dominicanos: Identidad y Cultura.”
A sea of red, white, and blue filled 6th Avenue from 37th Street to 55th Street as music, dancing, and Dominican pride took over the streets. Crowds packed the sidewalks, waving Dominican flags and cheering as colorful floats rolled past. Performers danced in the streets while bands played the unmistakable sounds of the tambora, güira, and diatonic accordion, creating a steady rhythm that echoed between the buildings.
Before the parade stepped off, elected officials and community leaders gathered for a ceremonial ribbon-cutting, officially kicking off the festivities. Among them were Gov. Kathy Hochul, Mayor Zohran Mamdani, Attorney General Letitia James, Rep. Adriano Espaillat and Public Advocate Jumaane Williams.
They were joined by this year’s parade honorees, including Grand Marshal Dr. Ramon Tallaj, founder of SOMOS Community Care; Parade Godfather and salsa singer José Alberto “El Canario”; King of the Parade and television and radio personality Frederick Martínez “El Pachá”; and Ambassador of Youth Empowerment Lizbel Ortiz, a writer and creator.
“It is such a joy to be here alongside so many other leaders in city and state government to celebrate the Dominican community in our city,” Mamdani said. “We know that more than one in eight New Yorkers have Dominican roots, and today is a day to celebrate that and to celebrate the long legacy of this beautiful community in this incredible city. Thank you so much for everything you have done for this city. We love and appreciate you.”
Hochul also shared her pride in joining the celebration.
“So proud to represent all of you, and I cannot wait to show our love for the Dominican Republic,” Hochul said.
The parade concluded at Sixth Avenue and West 55th Street.
