If you find yourself in Philadelphia or parts of Canada around New Year’s, you might stumble upon a vibrant, colorful, and somewhat baffling parade. This is the tradition of Mummery. For many, it is the highlight of the holiday season, a time for community, music, and spectacular costumes.
But what exactly is a Mummer, and what can you expect from Mummer’s Day 2025? Whether you are planning to attend in person or just want to understand this unique cultural phenomenon, this guide breaks down everything you need to know.
The History of Mummery
Mummery traces its roots back centuries, blending traditions from British, German, Swedish, and other European cultures. The term “mummer” likely comes from the Old French word momeur, meaning a masker or pantomimist.
Historically, mummers were groups of friends or neighbors who would dress in costume and travel from house to house during the Christmas season. They performed short plays, sang songs, and recited rhymes in exchange for food and drink. It was a way to share good luck for the coming year.
When immigrants brought these traditions to North America, specifically to Philadelphia, the informal neighborhood visits evolved. In 1901, the city officially recognized the Mummers Parade, turning scattered street performances into an organized civic celebration. Today, it is the oldest continuous folk parade in the United States.
When Is Mummer’s Day 2025?
Mummer’s Day is traditionally celebrated on New Year’s Day.
Mummer’s Day 2025 will take place on Wednesday, January 1, 2025.
If the weather is severe—heavy rain or snow can damage the elaborate costumes—the parade may be postponed to the following Saturday. However, thousands of performers and spectators plan their entire holiday around the first day of the year.
The 5 Divisions of the Mummers Parade
The Philadelphia Mummers Parade is not just one long line of people. It is organized into five distinct divisions, each with its own role, performance style, and judging criteria. Understanding these divisions helps you appreciate the variety you will see on the street.
1. The Comics
The Comics are often the first to march. As the name suggests, their goal is satire and humor. They poke fun at current events, politicians, and pop culture. Their costumes are often exaggerated, and their performances are theatrical and lighthearted.
What to look for: Umbrellas. Many Comics carry the traditional “Mummers umbrella” as they strut and dance the “Mummer’s Strut.”
2. The Wench Brigades
Originally part of the Comic division, the Wench Brigades have grown into their own distinct category. They are known for their traditional style, which includes wearing bonnets and dresses (traditionally worn by men), painted faces, and golden slippers.
What to look for: Live bands. Wench Brigades are accompanied by brass bands, and their performance is deeply rooted in old-school Mummery traditions.
3. The Fancies
The Fancy Division is all about visual spectacle. Their costumes are incredibly elaborate, often featuring massive backpieces, vibrant feathers, and sequins. Unlike the Comics, their focus is on beauty and intricate design rather than satire.
What to look for: The “Fancy” costumes. These outfits can weigh hundreds of pounds and require wheels to move down the street.
4. The String Bands
For many spectators, the String Bands are the highlight of the parade. These groups play musical instruments—banjos, saxophones, accordions, violins, and drums—without any recorded music. They perform choreographed drills and musical numbers with specific themes.
What to look for: The sound. The unique sound of a string band is unmistakable and provides the soundtrack for the day.
5. The Fancy Brigades
The Fancy Brigades perform indoors at the Pennsylvania Convention Center. Their shows are essentially large-scale stage productions with props, scenery, lighting effects, and high-energy choreography. While they do march a portion of the parade route, their main competition happens inside.
What to look for: Precision. These are highly rehearsed, broadway-style productions condensed into a four-and-a-half-minute performance.
How to Experience Mummer’s Day 2025
If you plan to attend the parade in Philadelphia, a little preparation goes a long way. The event is free to watch from the street, but it is a long day, often lasting eight hours or more.
Where to Watch
The parade typically moves south on Broad Street, starting at City Hall and ending at Washington Avenue.
- City Hall: This is the judging area. You can buy tickets for bleacher seating here to see the groups perform their main routines for the judges.
- Broad Street: You can stand anywhere along Broad Street to watch the marchers. The atmosphere here is festive and communal.
- The Convention Center: Tickets are required to see the Fancy Brigades perform their indoor finale.
What to Bring
- Warm Clothing: January in Philadelphia is cold. Dress in layers, wear comfortable shoes, and bring hand warmers.
- Refreshments: While there are food vendors, bringing water and snacks is a good idea, especially if you plan to stay for several divisions.
- Patience: Security checkpoints and large crowds can slow things down. Arrive early if you want a front-row spot on the sidewalk.
Mummer’s Day Around the World
While Philadelphia hosts the most famous Mummers Parade, Mummery exists elsewhere, particularly in Atlantic Canada.
In Newfoundland and Labrador, the tradition of “mummering” (or “janneying”) is very much alive. It closely resembles the old house-visiting tradition. People disguise themselves with whatever clothes they can find—often wearing underwear on the outside or lace curtains over their faces—and visit neighbors’ homes. The hosts must guess the identity of the mummers. Once guessed, the mummers remove their masks, and everyone shares a drink and a dance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Mummers Parade family-friendly?
Yes, the parade is a family event. The atmosphere is celebratory, with music and dancing. However, it can be crowded and loud, so parents with very small children might prefer watching from a less congested area further down Broad Street or on television.
How much does it cost to attend?
Watching the parade from the sidewalk on Broad Street is free. Tickets are required for the judging stands at City Hall and the Fancy Brigade Finale at the Convention Center.
What happens if it rains or snows?
If the weather is severe enough to damage the costumes or instruments, city officials and parade organizers will postpone the event. The alternate date is usually the Saturday following New Year’s Day. Check local news or the official parade social media channels for updates on the morning of January 1st.
Can I watch it on TV?
Yes. If you are in the Philadelphia area, local news stations broadcast the parade live. Many stations also offer a livestream on their websites for viewers outside the region.
Embracing the Tradition
Mummer’s Day is more than just a parade; it is a celebration of heritage and community spirit. It connects modern families to centuries of history through music, dance, and creativity.
Whether you are cheering on a String Band on Broad Street or simply learning about the tradition from afar, Mummer’s Day 2025 promises to be a vibrant start to the new year. It reminds us of the joy found in coming together to celebrate, perform, and share good luck for the year ahead.