New York’s imagination was on full display as the city came alive on Easter Sunday. Hundreds of participants and spectators, dressed in outlandish costumes and elegant bonnets, gathered at Manhattan’s Fifth Avenue in celebration of the Easter Parade and Easter Bonnet Festival. /VCG Photo

The event has long been a spring staple in the city, and participants from around the world have moved beyond simply wearing nice clothes. Attendees now take the opportunity to go all-out, with creative hats and other fancy accessories. /VCG Photo

The tradition dates back to the late 1800s, when richer residents would wear their best clothes and walk along this route after attending church services. /VCG Photo

The parade starts on Fifth Avenue and 47th street and moves towards 57th. /VCG Photo