NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) - It is a celebration of Puerto Rican pride on Sunday in Manhattan.

The National Puerto Rican Day Parade started marching in midtown at 11 a.m.

Fifth Avenue once again turned into a sea of red, white and blue in honor of the Puerto Rican flag, as more than a million people are expected to turn up for one of the city’s largest parades when it’s all said and done.

1010 WINS’ Carol D’Auria reports

“This weekend is very exciting, not only for the Puerto Ricans here in New York,” Madelyn Lugo, President of the National Puerto Rican Day Parade, told CBS 2′s Rachel Stockman, “but for Puerto Ricans from all across the country and Puerto Ricans that come from the island.”

Yesterday parade participants got ready for today’s festivities with a little marching, a little music and a lot of dancing.

This year’s Puerto Rican Day Parade is showcasing leaders in the area of higher education.

Participants marched up Fifth Avenue — starting on 44th Street — and made their way up to 79th Street.

Many folks came in from New Jersey very early this morning to make sure that they had a prime viewing spot.

“This is my first time coming early,” Fernando Garcia of Jersey City said. “I usually come in late and don’t get a seat, but this is actually a good time. It will be a good day.”

“I’m from Puerto Rico,” Natalie Torres, also from Jersey City, added, “and it’s my first time being in New York and being on the news!”

The music, the food and all of the festivities are set to conclude at 5 p.m.

Are you planning to attend the parade today? Offer your thoughts and comments in the section below…