January 1

Mummer’s Parade

Get ready for a festive and colorful celebration with the annual Mummer's Parade - full of vibrant costumes, lively music, and endless fun!

Yearly Date

January 1

Observed in

United States

Introduction

Get ready to start off the new year with a colorful and lively celebration at the Mummer's Parade on January 1! This annual tradition dates back to the late 19th century, when groups of performers would dress up in extravagant costumes and parade down the streets of Philadelphia. Today, the parade features elaborate floats, music, dancing, and plenty of entertainment for all ages. It's a fantastic way to ring in the new year with family and friends while experiencing a unique piece of American history. So grab your best sequined outfit and join in on the fun at this beloved New Year's Day event!

Mummer’s Parade Timeline

17th Century

Mummer's Origin

Mumming, the tradition of costumed entertainments, dates back to ancient times but started to evolve in the 17th century in Philadelphia.

1876

First Official Parade

The first officially recognized Mummer's Parade took place.

1901

City Sponsorship

The city begins to sponsor the Mummer’s Parade, providing prizes for the best performances.

1956

Comics Division Added

The Comics division was added to the parade, bringing a new style of humor and satire to the procession.

1980

Women Officially Included

Women are officially allowed to participate in the Mummer’s Parade, although they had been unofficially involved prior to this.

2011

The Fancy Brigades Finale

The Fancy Brigades separately holds their performances in an indoor theater, becoming the parade finale.

How to Celebrate Mummer’s Parade

1 Design your own mummer’s costume

Get creative and design your own mummer’s costume! Use materials like feathers, sequins, and glitter to make a unique and colorful outfit that will make you stand out during the parade.

2 Attend a mummer’s workshop

Many communities offer workshops where you can learn how to make your own mummer’s costume or create your own props. Sign up for one and get hands-on experience in the art of mummering.

3 Host a pre-parade party

Gather your friends and family for a pre-parade party! Serve traditional mummer’s parade foods like roast pork sandwiches, pickled beets, and hot apple cider. This is a great way to get into the spirit of the parade before it starts.

4 Decorate your house in mummer’s style

Show your mummer pride by decorating your house in mummer’s style! Hang up banners, streamers, and other decorations featuring the iconic mummer’s parade characters and symbols.

5 Join in on the parade fun

Don’t just watch the parade, join in on the fun! Many parades allow spectators to join in at the end and become part of the procession. Put on your costume and dance along to the lively music!

Why We Love Mummer’s Parade

It's a unique and fun tradition

The Mummer's Parade in Philadelphia is a one-of-a-kind event that has been celebrated for more than 120 years. It combines elements of theater, music, and dance to create a colorful and entertaining spectacle. The parade is a beloved tradition for locals and visitors alike!

It showcases amazing costumes and performances

Participants in the Mummer's Parade spend months planning and creating elaborate costumes, floats, and routines. The result is a visually stunning and dynamic show that never fails to impress. Every year, new themes and ideas are brought to life through this creative outlet.

It brings people together

The Mummer's Parade is a celebration of community and culture. It brings people from different backgrounds together to enjoy the festivities, fostering a sense of unity and belonging. For many Philadelphians, the parade is a cherished annual tradition that they share with loved ones.