Mummer’s Parade

Mummer’s Parade is observed on January 1. Held annually in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, it is widely considered the oldest continuous folk parade in the United States. The event features thousands of performers dressed in elaborate, hand-sewn costumes who “strut” along Broad Street to the sounds of banjos and brass, marking the official start of the New Year with a unique blend of music, satire, and performance art.

History of Mummer’s Parade

The origins of the parade date back to the 17th century when Swedish, Finnish, and other European immigrants brought their New Year customs to the Delaware Valley. These traditions included visiting neighbors, performing short skits, and “shooting in” the New Year by firing guns into the air. One of the most significant influences was the English mummers’ play, where performers in disguises acted out folk stories. Over time, these decentralized neighborhood celebrations merged, and the term “mummer” was adopted from the German word for “mask” or “masquerade.”

By the late 19th century, the festivities had become more organized as local clubs began to form. In 1901, the city of Philadelphia officially sanctioned and sponsored the first formal parade, offering cash prizes for the best costumes and performances. This led to the creation of distinct divisions, such as the Comics and the Fancies, to categorize the different styles of performance. Despite a temporary ban on public masquerading in the early 1800s due to rowdy behavior, the tradition persisted through the efforts of working-class neighborhoods in South Philadelphia, eventually becoming a staple of the city’s cultural heritage.

Why is Mummer’s Parade important?

The parade is a vital preservation of Philadelphia’s localized folk culture and immigrant history. It provides a platform for five distinct divisions—Comics, Wench Brigades, Fancies, String Bands, and Fancy Brigades—to showcase months of preparation. The String Bands are particularly noteworthy as they perform complex musical arrangements using only string, reed, and percussion instruments, with no brass allowed. This adherence to specific musical and costuming rules ensures that the historical identity of the event remains intact while allowing each generation to add their own creative flair.

This event also serves as a massive community-building exercise. Participation is often a multi-generational family tradition, with costumes and choreography passed down from parents to children. The parade generates significant economic activity for the city, drawing hundreds of thousands of spectators and television viewers. Beyond the competition for prizes and bragging rights, it provides a festive outlet for political satire and social commentary, as the Comic and Wench divisions often use their routines to lampoon current events and figures.

• It celebrates over a century of officially sanctioned folk performance in America.
• The parade honors the diverse European immigrant roots of Philadelphia’s residents.
• It maintains a unique musical tradition through the string band instrumental rules.
• Participants spend the entire year fundraising and sewing intricate sequined costumes.
• The event fosters deep neighborhood pride and multi-generational family bonds.

How to Celebrate Mummer’s Parade

To experience the parade in person, spectators should find a spot along the Broad Street route, which typically runs from City Hall south toward Washington Avenue. The best viewing areas are often near the designated performance zones where the clubs pause to perform their full routines for the judges. Arriving early is essential, as the sidewalks fill quickly with locals who bring lawn chairs and blankets. After the main procession ends, many follow the performers to “Two Street” in South Philadelphia for an informal, late-night block party where the clubs continue to celebrate and play music.

If you prefer an indoor experience, you can attend the Fancy Brigade Finale at the Pennsylvania Convention Center. These ticketed shows feature theatrical, Broadway-style performances with large-scale props and synchronized dancing that are not possible on the street. For those watching from home, the event is traditionally broadcast on local television networks, offering a clear view of the detailed craftsmanship on the costumes. You can also participate by visiting the Mummers Museum in South Philadelphia to see historical displays and learn the signature “Mummer Strut” dance step.

• Scout a viewing spot on Broad Street early in the morning to see the strutters up close.
• Purchase tickets for the indoor Fancy Brigade show to see theatrical choreography.
• Visit the Mummers Museum to explore the history of the various clubs and divisions.
• Join the post-parade festivities on Second Street for an authentic neighborhood experience.
• Learn the traditional “Golden Slippers” song that serves as the parade’s unofficial anthem.

Mummer’s Parade Dates Table