An Easter parade isn’t just the name of an excellent Judy Garland and Fred Astaire musical, a real tradition first popularized in the 19th century. To this day in New York City, swells in their Sunday best to promenade down Fifth Avenue after Easter church services just like in the Irving Berlin song lyrics.
Now for the second year, that celebration comes to Washington Square with the San Francisco Easter Bonnet Parade.
Organized by San Francisco Vintage and SF Vintage Maps founder Krystyl Baldwin, the event is about celebrating the spirit of spring, a love of personal style and “the idea that public space can be experienced with grace.”
Hats are of course encouraged, so if there’s an heirloom bowler or vintage fascinator you’ve been waiting to break out, now is the time. While there is no official dress code, Baldwin invites attendees to come in what consider “modern interpretations of classic Easter style.” All ages are welcome.
Baldwin hopes the event becomes a new civic occasion San Franciscans look forward to each Easter.
If there’s any neighborhood in San Francisco that prizes tradition, ritual and has its own unique elegant bohemian style identity, it’s North Beach. Get out your boaters and bows, we’re headed to the parade.