Mummers Museum

“What is a Mummer?” you may ask. He or she is a lavishly costumed, dancing, marching, instrument-playing, feather-and-sequin covered Philadelphian who brings the city’s unique brand of celebration to fever pitch. The purest example of Philadelphia’s [2] spirit, the Mummers celebrate every occasion, but none more so than the New Year, which they usher in with a parade on Broad Street.

If you haven’t seen a Mummers parade before, it is a sight not to be missed. While the earliest Mummers date back to ancient Egypt, the tradition of Mummers in Philadelphia began in the late 17th century and has held strong every since.

The joyous group is passionate and proud, and their traditions have become an important part of Philadelphia’s [2] history. The Mummers Museum in South Philadelphia has exhibits that pay homage to their unique history.