Puerto Rican Day Parade organizers tap iconic salsa singer Tito Nieves for Grand Marshal duties

ByEyewitness News WABC logo
Tuesday, May 21, 2024
Puerto Rican Day Parade organizers unveil 2024 theme, honorees
The National Puerto Rican Day Parade is planning its big return to Fifth Avenue on June 9.

NEW YORK (WABC) -- The National Puerto Rican Day Parade is planning its big return to Fifth Avenue on June 9.

It's the 67th annual celebration of culture and this year's theme is "Boricua de Corazón." The phrase translates to Puerto Rican in my heart.

This year's grand marshal will be acclaimed salsa singer Tito Nieves and this year's godfather, or padrino, will be actor Ramon Rodriquez, who stars in ABC's "Will Trent."

Organizers say the two-week extravaganza highlights not only the culture and history but also shows the resilience of Puerto Rican people. Now, they're calling on all New Yorkers to come and join the party.

"We have carefully curated a diverse and distinguished roster of honorees, each one a shining example of the excellence Puerto Ricans have contributed across numerous professions; from music, art, theater, film, and television to sports, science, literature, politics, and journalism," Lillian Rodríguez Lopez, NPRDP Board Chair, said. "We extend a warm invitation to everyone to join us on NYC's Fifth Avenue as we celebrate these outstanding individuals and our collective pride in our heritage and culture under our 2024 theme, Boricua de Corazón."

New York Yankees newcomer, Marcus Stroman was tapped as the Athlete of the Year and will help lead the festivities on June 9.

Other honorees include DJ Frankie Cutlass, actor David Zayas and LGBTQIA civil rights activist Victoria Cruz, among others.

Channel 7 is the proud broadcast partner of the Puerto Rican Day Parade.

Our very own David Novarro will be hosting along with Joe Torres and Sunny Hostin -- with Sonia Rincon reporting along the parade route.

The broadcast kicks off on Sunday, June 9, on channel 7 and streaming on abc7NY.

READ MORE HEREOrganizers gear up for Dance Parade 2024 amid push for NYC zoning revision

Lauren Glassberg has the story in Lower Manhattan on the parade.

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