Babylon Village Hosts 1st Pride Car Parade: PHOTOS

BABYLON, NY — Babylon Village hosted its first ever Pride Car Parade this past weekend. The event, held on Sunday, was organized by two longtime local residents, Roman and Bob McKeown.

Both said they received the support from Babylon town and village officials prior to the parade. Several local businesses came out to show their support, some even hosting a car in the parade.

"We are extremely grateful to the entire community that came out to celebrate with us. Seeing 4th and 5th generation Babylon Residents lining the streets and decorating trucks to embrace the LGBTQ was an amazing site," McKeown told Patch. "The music was pumping and the smiles told the story. The entire Village including the Mayor's Office, trustees, Chamber of Commerce, local establishments, and residents came together to show the world we are all one big family."

The parade started on Deer Park Avenue and went down Main Street headed towards Lily Flanagan's. The parade included 40 cars and one float. Spectators watched while sitting outside some of the local restaurants.

McKeown added that he wanted to thank all the participants for "going over the top."

"The best quote of the day went to Babylon Strong's Car that read 'Babylon Pride makes Babylon Strong'! That simple quote says it all. Plans are already in the works for something bigger and better next year," he said.

Roman said the turnout was "incredible."

"It showed the diversity in our community but bigger than that the event of love brought us together and united us," he said. "After what feels like dark times currently in the world. It was just what we needed , to see a rainbow at the end of it all."

Check out additional photos from the event below:

All photos courtesy of Daniel Palumbo