Mummer’s Parade

If you haven’t experienced the Mummers Parade, you haven’t truly celebrated the New Year! This vibrant event takes place every January 1 in Philadelphia and is a dazzling spectacle. People from all over the country travel to witness this grand show.

History

It’s believed that masquerade traditions were brought to the United States by European settlers. In Europe, it was customary for families to dress up and celebrate together at Christmas. When they settled in their new homeland, these customs continued—and eventually became a beloved tradition. Early European immigrants even marked the holiday with volleys of gunfire out of habit!

Not everyone appreciated the noise and excitement. This led to a ban on festivities in 1808. However, people used to such fun continued to hold parades underground. In 1859, the ban was lifted, and public celebrations resumed. Notably, during the prohibition period, not a single person was punished for breaking the rules.

The first Mummers Club was founded in the 1840s, which sparked the creation of many similar societies. These groups began to compete with each other, inventing elaborate costumes and striving to outdo previous years’ processions.

Interesting Facts

• The parade is still predominantly male, with few women participants.
• The winner receives a small cash prize.
• Since 1980, the event can be held indoors at the Convention Center—especially helpful when the weather is very cold.
• Over the years, city authorities have openly supported the parade and its traditions.
• Today, participants come from all walks of life, including doctors, lawyers, and business professionals.

How to Take Part

Philadelphia heats up on New Year’s Day, despite the winter! People celebrate, enjoy an adrenaline rush, joke with their rivals, and compete for the top prize. Both locals and tourists love watching and filming the colorful show.

When is Mummers Parade in 2026?

Mummers Parade is observed on January 1 each year.

Observations