Mummers Parade: 13 photos from Philly’s 2017 celebration
The Fancies, the crowds, the color.

Shooting Stars performing "The Phantom's Masquerade"
Michael BruderThere were sequins. There was glitter. There were feathers and ruffles and bangles and jewels. There was some facepaint — but only in festive colors. No big controversy erupted to mar Philadelphia’s annual Jan. 1 tradition this year, as the 116th Mummers Parade spread festivity throughout the city.
Broad Street sidewalks were packed with spectators from City Hall down to Washington Avenue with families and friends who’d come out to watch the show, and the String Bands did not disappoint, strutting their way down the center of the city with a elaborate carnival of colors and sound. Inside the Convention Center, the Fancy Brigades performed miniature plays with coordinated costumes that had just as much visual thrill.
Here are some of the best sights from New Year’s Day in Philly.
Fralinger String Band
Michael BruderGreater Kensington String Band had a warrior theme.
Greater Kensington String Band captain Jeff Moyer
Michael BruderWomen weren’t allowed in the parade at all before the 1970s, but now they participate in several clubs, including the Duffy String Band.
That's quite a hat she's wearing
Michael BruderMummer Brigade leaders went through sensitivity training this year, and all skits were pre-approved. Some chose to poke fun at that.
Training them early
Michael BruderPolice presence was very apparent this year. Every vehicle in the parade, including all floats, were inspected by bomb-sniffing dogs. The PPD also brought out radiation detectors.
City Hall makes a great backdrop.
Meanwhile, inside the Convention Center, the Fancies went all out.
Saturnalian performers
Michael BruderThe Saturnalian Fancy Brigade performed “Gangs of New York”
The Irish gang from “Gangs of New York.”
The Vikings performed “It’s All in Your Mime.”
Vikings performing "It's All in Your Mime"
Michael BruderThese costumes were enough to make you dizzy, no New Year’s Day drinking required.
Golden Crown performed “Raindance” — a skit about Native American dance that was deemed to respect tradition and culture enough to go on.