Blogamole › Puerto Rican Day Parade

By Michael Lopez

Saying New York has a lot of Puerto Rican pride is an understatement. Believe it or not, over 80,000 proud Latinos are expected to march in this Sunday’s annual Puerto Rican Day Parade, including some very famous faces. Stars like John Leguizamo, Tito “El Bambino” and Dayanara Torres are all expected to attend.

A tradition for over five decades, the parade celebrates the over four million Puerto Ricans who live in continental US. Within the past several years, proud marchers have included Ricky Martin, Jennifer Lopez, and Marc Anthony (who has previously served as a "National Grand Marshall").

This year Leguizamo is taking over political duties for the event, serving as the parade's World Ambassador of the Arts. Folk singer Cabán Vale has been named Godfather of the Arts and Goya Foods president Robert Unanue is the official 2011 Grand Marshall.

"The thing about the parade is that we're so inclusive," Leguizamo explained. "Puerto Ricans are not an exclusive people. We want everybody to celebrate. We want everybody to be a part of it."

"El Bambino" is sure to leave a major mark as well. He'll be performing his trademark hits atop a customized Coors float. And it's clear from his tweets that Tito is seriously stoked about participating in the event.

"Ya en Puerto Rico todo un exito Jalisco en Vivo este proximo fin de semana para la parada Puertorriqueña en Nueva York Activo #Invencible" he posted.

As with every year, music will be a major part of the parade. Floats devoted to salsa, reggaeton, and folk stylings have already been constructed and legendary El Gran Combo has been listed as the official kickoff band for the festivities.

Starting at approximately 11 a.m on Fifth Ave and 44th St., the parade will travel over 30 blocks and be broadcast on two local New York TV stations. Over one million spectators are expected to watch the floats pass by and, with weather predictions of over 80 degrees, you can bet there will be plenty of sizzling after parties in the streets.

Have you ever participated in the Puerto Rican Day Parade? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Celebrities, Cultura, El Gran Combo, John Leguizamo, new york, Puerto Rican Day Parade, Puerto Rico, Tito El Bambino

The biggest parade in the history of the U.S. is getting a prideful visit from Calle 13.

The “Electro Movimiento” duo are blasting off the weekend celebration early by attending the Macy’s and Adidas Originals red carpet event in honor of La Isla Del Encanto. Calle 13 fans will get a chance to meet los raperos, but there is a catch in the deal. You must spend at least $32 in Adidas products to get your foot in the door. Bueno, that's a small price to pay for a one-of-a-kind autograph and limited edition Adidas Original PR flag.

How fresh would it be to get your kicks signed by Calle 13?! Make sure you drop in foot powder in them before making Residente and Visitante smell your sicote (a.k.a. stinky feet).

Photo via SONY BMG

Tags Calle 13, Free Music, Latin Music, Latinos, MTV, Musica Latina, Puerto Rican Day Parade, Tr3s, Tres