2016 Hispanic Day Parade New York: Alicia Machado Is Grand Marshal, Pics, Other Things To Know

Approximately 2.5 million Hispanic and Latino people live in New York City and every year they come together to celebrate their heritage at the annual Hispanic Day Parade. On Sunday, October 9, the streets of New York will be flooded with more than 4,000 marchers, dancers and colorful floats. Upward of 1 million spectators are expected to attend the cultural celebration.

Here are four things to know:

1. This Is the 52nd Edition Of The Hispanic Day Parade

The Parade marks the close of National Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs from September 15 to October 15, and always takes place on the Sunday before Columbus Day.

2. This Is When And Where It Takes Place

The parade starts on Sunday, Oct. 9, at noon and runs until 5 p.m. It kicks off on East 43rd street between 5th and Madison Avenue and and finishes at East 69th street. The road is closed on 5th Avenue between 43rd and East 69th Streets. Closures will be extended between East 69th Street and East 72nd Street along Madison Avenue. East 63rd and East 64th Street will also be closed between 5th Avenue and Park Avenue.

3. Alicia Machado Is The Grand Marshal

The Venezuelan beauty has gained a certain noteriety of late due to her insistence that Presidential nominee, Donald Trump, abused her verbally and mentally during her reign as Miss Universe back in 1996. She will put all that behind her on this special day as she takes center stage as the Parade's Grand Marshal.

4. Spanish Author Of Don Quixote To Be Honored
This year’s festival marks the 400th anniversary of the death of Miguel de Cervantes, the author of “Don Quixote,” In honor of Cervantes’ death, marchers will carry paintings of Cervantes created by the Spanish artist Curro Leyton.

Talking to am New York Pepe Navajas, coordinator of the parade’s Spanish delegation for La Nacional–Spanish Benevolent Society said, "When you learn Spanish writing, everything is ‘Don Quixote.’ It’s the most important book in the Spanish culture.”

The Spanish delegation is also planning to have flamenco dancers, as well as a tuna — a group of musicians who perform serenades while dressed in 13th-century garb. La Nacional is bringing more than 70 performers from Spain who will be singing and playing mandolins, lutes and tambourines.

Now Click through the slideshow for scenes from past Hispanic Day Parades.