What to Know About the Mummers Parade: Road Closures, Times, and Tickets
Timing and Location
The outdoor parade begins at 9 a.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 1. Parade participants will march from City Hall south on Broad Street to Washington Avenue.
Fancy Brigade Finale shows will follow the parade with two presentations inside the Pennsylvania Convention Center at 11:30 a.m. and 5 p.m.
Tickets
Members of the public can view the parade for free along the route. Tickets for bleacher seating and the Fancy Brigade Finale shows are available for purchase.
How to Watch
The 2024 Mummers Parade sponsor Live! Casino & Hotel Philadelphia will broadcast the parade from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on WDPN-TV (MeTV2), 69 WFMZ, WFMZ.com, and the WFMZ+ app.
Public Transportation
The City of Philadelphia urges the public to use public transportation. SEPTA’s Broad Street and Market-Frankford lines are the best for traveling to and from the parade. Visit SEPTA’s website for bus detours around the parade route and train schedules.
Parking Restrictions and Road Closures
Numerous parking restrictions and road closures will be in affect for the Mummer’s Parade. Visit the City of Philadelphia’s website for a complete list of dates, times, and locations.
History of the Mummer’s Parade
This beloved Philadelphia tradition remains the nation’s oldest festival, with its origins dating back to the 1640s. It was most likely dubbed “mummer” from the German word for “mask.” Many parade participants will wear elaborate costumes and masks for the parade.
The parade blends the traditions of immigrant Scandinavians who welcomed the new year with gunfire, the English and Welsh who celebrated with masquerades, and the Germans who are credited with bringing Santa Claus to America.
After the Civil War, Philadelphia’s Black residents incorporated the Mummers’ signature strut and the parade’s theme song “Oh! Dem Golden Slippers.” The parade became an official city-sponsored event in 1901.