MANAYUNK

By: Kelsi Druck

The Mummers brought color and fun to a gloomy day in Manayunk on Sunday February 25! Thousands of residents and visitors to Manayunk lined the street to witness the pageantry of the Mummers!

Sixteen string bands marched down Main Street to share their elaborate routines, costumes and tradition of mummery. A special guest to Manayunk and recent Philadelphia Eagles Super Bowl Champion, Jason Kelce, made his Mummers Mardi Grad debut with Avalon String Band! Strutting down Main Street in his traditional Mummers costume, playing the baritone saxophone!

This day-long celebration not only brings excitement and fun to Main Street, it raises money and contributes to the exposure for one the greatest Philadelphia traditions! Local businesses and volunteers took part in the parade march by distributing beads to spectators to electrify the street with color and collect donations to support the Mummers, totaling over $4,000!

The Mummers Mardi Gras festivities didn't end when the crowds cleared Main Street. The string bands made their way to Mummers Clubhouses all throughout Manayunk to keep the celebration going! Whether the parade-goers danced the night away to the string band music or relaxed with a delicious Manayunk meal, the energy of the Mummers continued for hours.

Thank you to everyone who participated in this wonderful celebration and donated to support the Mummers!

Video courtesy of: TERRYLEAHYFILMS