Philadelphia Mummers Parade Named Nation’s Best Holiday Parade

The national recognition comes at the perfect time as the Mummers prepare for a truly historic celebration: their 125th Anniversary Parade on Thursday, January 1, 2026. This marks the third time the parade has earned the coveted #1 holiday parade honor, solidifying its place as one of the country's most unique cultural events.

"Being named the best holiday parade in the nation is the perfect way to kick off a landmark year," said Jake Joyce, Senior Vice President of Marketing at Live! Casino & Hotel Philadelphia, the title sponsor. "As the Mummers ring in their 125th year, and as our city becomes the focus of the nation’s 250th anniversary, we’re incredibly proud to serve as the title sponsor of this beloved, award-winning tradition."

The 125th Anniversary Celebration: Strutting Down Broad Street

The 2026 parade promises to be a spectacular tribute to the Mummers’ unmatched legacy, featuring dazzling, over-the-top performances from all four divisions:

• Divisions Participating: 1 Fancy Club, 10 Wench Brigades, 3 Comic clubs, and 14 String Bands.
• The Performance: Each group will stage elaborate, Broadway-style productions featuring complex costumes and choreography. Sam Regalbuto, President of the String Band Association, noted that the performance will celebrate the Mummers' history while building excitement for the landmark year ahead.
• Parade Route and Timing: The 2026 parade begins at City Hall at 9:00 AM and continues south down Broad Street to Washington Avenue, concluding at 7:00 PM.
• Best Viewing: Judging will take place on the West side of City Hall and Dilworth Plaza. Special viewing areas for entertainers will be located at 17th & Market Streets and along Broad Street at Samson, Pine, and Carpenter Streets.

A Tradition Rooted in History

The Mummers Parade is recognized by the "52 Weeks of Firsts" initiative as the first Folk Parade in America, officially starting in 1901. Its origins stretch back to the 17th century, when working-class European immigrants would march through neighborhoods, chanting and seeking donations of whiskey or pepper pot (a steaming hot stew).

The tradition became so popular that the City of Philadelphia officially organized the parade in 1901, offering cash prizes to bring order and spectacle to the rowdy New Year’s Day celebrations. Over the years, simple homemade costumes evolved into the elaborate productions and pageantry seen today.

How to Watch and Support

The 2026 Mummers Parade will be broadcast live from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM across the Delaware Valley and parts of the Poconos on WDPN-TV (MeTV2) and 69 WFMZ-TV, as well as on various streaming platforms.

Fans looking to support the 501(c)(3) charitable organization can make financial contributions online to ensure the ongoing success of the parade. Additionally, limited-edition commemorative merchandise, including an exclusive 125th anniversary holiday ornament and a Mummers plushie, will be available for purchase.

To further celebrate the Mummers’ 125th Anniversary as America's first Folk Parade, a special event will be held on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at the Mummers Museum at 1100 S. 2nd Street, Philadelphia.