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The colorful entrance to the Mummers Museum on an overcast day

The entrance to the museum showcases the winners from the past year

Costumes often reflect current pop culture

Harlequin costumes are everywhere!

Outfits can be quite extravagant and expensive

The artistry on display with each costume is impressive

Though the museum is small, there's still a lot to see

Music and dance are a huge part of the Mummers tradition

Sketches illustrate how outfits are brought to life from their original concepts

Golden Slippers and Struts: The Mummers Museum Story

The Mummers Museum, located in the heart of South Philadelphia, is a one-of-a-kind institution dedicated to preserving and celebrating one of the city’s most colorful and enduring traditions: the Philadelphia Mummers Parade. Established in 1976 during America’s Bicentennial, the museum offers a deep dive into the unique cultural legacy of Mummery, a folk tradition that blends music, satire, pageantry, and a strong sense of community.

At its core, Mummery is about celebration—of the New Year, of family, of neighborhood, and of creativity. While it may appear whimsical or even absurd at times, the tradition has deep roots in both ancient and more recent European history. From Saturnalia in Rome to medieval British mummer plays, the custom of costumed revelry has long served as a way for ordinary people to mark the passing of time, poke fun at authority, and share joy with one another. In Philadelphia, these traditions evolved into an organized celebration featuring five divisions: Comic, Fancy, Wench Brigade, String Band, and Fancy Brigade. The annual Mummers Parade, held each New Year’s Day, is the oldest continuous folk parade in the United States, dating back to 1901.

The museum houses an impressive collection of elaborate costumes, props, audio and video recordings, and photographs from decades of parades. Visitors can explore exhibits that showcase the incredible craftsmanship behind the sequins, feathers, and umbrellas that define Mummer style. There’s even a space dedicated to teaching the famous Mummers “strut.” Golden Slippers, a key symbol of the tradition, appear throughout the museum, a nod to the parade’s unofficial anthem, “Oh Dem Golden Slippers.”

More than just a costume gallery, the Mummers Museum also offers rotating exhibitions, educational programming, workshops, and community events throughout the year. It tells the story of working-class Philadelphians—many of Irish, Italian, German, or Polish descent—who pour their time, money, and spirit into this lively tradition.

Whether you’re a lifelong fan of the parade or a newcomer curious about the boisterous world of Mummery, the Mummers Museum is a welcoming place to experience the spirit, humor, and heart of this distinctly Philadelphian celebration.

Matthew Christopher PA Philadelphia Sep 16, 2025 History Museums Places to Visit

Location: Philadelphia PA

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