Nepal Day Parade Celebrates Nepali Culture in New York’s Manhattan

New York City Mayor Eric Adams delivers remarks at the Nepal Day Parade. Madison Avenue & East 38th Street, New York, NY. Sunday, May 21, 2023. Photo Credit: Benny Polatseck/Mayoral Photography Office

New York City came alive with vibrant colors, captivating performances, and a festive atmosphere as the annual Nepal Day Parade took place in Manhattan on Sunday. The parade, which has been held in the heart of New York City since 2016, showcased the rich cultural heritage of Nepal and celebrated the Nepali community residing in the city.

The event featured various presentations highlighting the arts, culture, and traditional costumes from different villages of Nepal. Spectators were treated to mesmerizing performances of traditional dances, music, and rituals that reflected the diversity and beauty of Nepali culture. The streets of Manhattan were adorned with intricate decorations, capturing the essence of Nepal’s vibrant traditions.

Nepali Woman Captures Memorable Selfie with Mayor Eric Adams at Nepal Day Parade. Photo: Benny Polatseck/Mayoral Photography Office

Distinguished guests and community leaders also joined the parade to show their support and appreciation for the Nepali community. New York City Mayor Eric Adams, who actively participated in the event, expressed his admiration for the Nepali contributions to the city. Mayor Adams acknowledged the Nepali community’s impact on New York, encompassing their rich traditions, cultural practices, and even the world-famous Nepali dish, momos.

Nepali Origin Immigration Attorney Khagendra GC Joins Mayor Eric Adams at Nepal Day Parade, Sporting Nepali Dhaka Topi. Photo: Benny Polatseck/Mayoral Photography Office

“The Nepali community contributes so much to our city: traditions, culture, and of course, the world-famous momos! It was an honor to celebrate Nepal Day and the founding of Nepal as a republic with them today,” Mayor Adams remarked, emphasizing the significance of the occasion.

Nepali Origin Immigration Attorney Kesab Raj Seadie Proudly Waves Nepali Flag at Nepal Day Parade. Photo: Deepak Pariyar/Khasokhas

Congresswoman Grace Meng, New York state assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar, and other local leaders also graced the parade with their presence, showing their support for the Nepali community and their commitment to multiculturalism and inclusivity.

The Nepal Day Parade commenced at 38th Street and Madison Avenue, proceeding with great enthusiasm and energy. Hundreds of Nepali residents living in New York and the surrounding areas came together to participate in this joyous occasion. The parade route stretched along Madison Avenue, eventually culminating at 24th Street, where a cultural program awaited the participants and onlookers.

Nepali Dancer Basanti Rai Shines at Nepal Day Parade, Adorned in Traditional Nepali Attire. Photo: Deepak Pariyar/Khasokhas

The event served as a platform to unite the Nepali community and foster a sense of belonging and pride. It showcased the unique customs, traditions, and values that Nepali immigrants bring with them to New York City, highlighting the beauty of cultural diversity.

The Nepal Day Parade in Manhattan has become an annual tradition, serving as a testament to the enduring spirit and resilience of the Nepali community. It not only offers an opportunity to celebrate their cultural heritage but also creates a space for cultural exchange, promoting understanding and harmony among different communities.

As the colorful festivities came to an end, the Nepal Day Parade left a lasting impression on the streets of Manhattan, reminding everyone of the rich tapestry of cultures that make New York City a truly cosmopolitan metropolis.