Quick Read
- NYC hosts the 68th National Puerto Rican Day Parade on June 8, 2025.
- The parade runs along Fifth Avenue from 44th to 79th Street.
- Theme: ‘Plantando Bandera,’ celebrating Puerto Rican pride and contributions.
- Street closures to impact Midtown; see full details inside.
- Watch live on ABC7 New York from noon to 3 p.m.
New York City is bursting with vibrant colors and rhythmic energy today as the 68th annual National Puerto Rican Day Parade takes over Fifth Avenue. This iconic celebration, held on Sunday, June 8, 2025, is a cornerstone of cultural pride for Puerto Ricans in the U.S. and beyond. With the theme “Plantando Bandera” (Planting Roots), this year’s parade honors the deep contributions of Puerto Rican communities across the globe.
Stretching from East 44th to East 79th Streets along Fifth Avenue, the parade draws over a million spectators and features elaborate floats, music, and dance. Starting at 11 a.m., festivities are set to run until 5 p.m., offering a spectacular display of heritage and unity. Here’s everything you need to know to join the celebration or navigate the city during this major event.
The meaning behind “Plantando Bandera”
This year’s theme, “Plantando Bandera,” pays homage to the enduring influence of Puerto Rican culture both locally and globally. According to NPRDP Board Chair Lillian Rodríguez López, the theme reflects the pride and perseverance of Puerto Rican communities in preserving their cultural identity. The celebration highlights two key communities: Aguas Buenas, Puerto Rico, and Atlanta, Georgia, recognizing their unique contributions to Puerto Rican heritage.
“These communities exemplify how Puerto Ricans have planted roots worldwide, enriching society while staying true to their identity,” López explained during a press release.
A star-studded lineup of honorees
This year’s parade is led by a dazzling roster of honorees who embody Puerto Rican excellence across arts, sports, and entertainment. Six-time Grammy winner Olga Tañón reigns as Queen of the Parade, while acclaimed actor Luis Guzmán joins her as Parade King. Additional honorees include Golden Globe-winning actress Gina Rodríguez as Madrina (Godmother) and Grammy-winning artist Elvis Crespo as Padrino (Godfather).
In a historic first, Unified Featherweight World Champion Amanda Serrano, recognized by Guinness World Records, will be celebrated for her trailblazing achievements in women’s boxing. These luminaries will lead the parade procession, inspiring countless attendees with their stories of success and resilience.
Spotlight on Puerto Rican art and tradition
The 2025 parade not only celebrates the present but also pays tribute to Puerto Rico’s rich artistic legacy. This year’s broadcast will feature a special segment on Puerto Rican urban and contemporary art, including insights from graffiti pioneer Lee Quiñones and art historian Dr. Yasmin Ramirez. Together, they will trace the evolution of Puerto Rican art from mid-20th-century icons like Rafael Tufiño and Lorenzo Homar to the street art movements of New York City.
Adding to the cultural tapestry, the parade will honor La Parranda, a beloved Puerto Rican Christmas tradition that unites communities through music and celebration.
Scholarships empowering the next generation
A hallmark of the National Puerto Rican Day Parade is its commitment to education. For the eighth consecutive year, the NPRDP will award 100 scholarships worth $2,000 each to exceptional students of Puerto Rican descent. This year’s recipients, representing 24 states and Puerto Rico, include students attending prestigious institutions such as Yale, Columbia, and the University of Puerto Rico. Since 2014, the NPRDP has distributed over $1.8 million in scholarships, fostering the next generation of leaders.
Plan your day: Route and street closures
The parade follows its traditional route along Fifth Avenue, beginning at East 44th Street and culminating at East 79th Street. To accommodate the festivities, several streets in Midtown Manhattan will be closed, including:
- 5th Avenue between 51st and 52nd Streets
- West/East 44th to 48th Streets between 6th and Madison Avenues
For a full list of closures, check with NYC Department of Transportation. Public transportation is strongly recommended, with the MTA adding trains to the 4/5/6 subway lines, which run along the parade route.
Where to watch the parade
If you’re planning to watch in person, early arrival is key for securing a prime spot along Fifth Avenue. Can’t make it to Manhattan? Tune in to ABC7 New York, the parade’s official broadcast partner, from noon to 3 p.m. The broadcast will also be available for streaming on ABC7’s website and app.
Whether you’re cheering from the sidewalks or watching from home, the National Puerto Rican Day Parade promises an unforgettable celebration of culture, unity, and pride.
As the music and colors of the 68th National Puerto Rican Day Parade fill the streets of New York City, the event serves as a poignant reminder of the vibrant culture and indomitable spirit of the Puerto Rican community. From the rich traditions of the past to the achievements of today’s leaders, the parade celebrates a legacy that continues to inspire generations.