2026 Mummers Parade Goes On Without String Band Full Performance
by Alex Lloyd Gross
The 2026 Mummers Parade went on as scheduled, albeit with a few changes. Everything was set to go on as planned, but high winds along Market Street played havoc with some props belonging to the String Bands. Some props were damaged, and Parade Marshals were injured. A decision was made to forgo the props and keep the String Bands as music-only groups, with no elaborate shows. The performances were not judged.
The weather was cold, and the low temperature kept many potential parade-goers at home. Many people complained that the parade was not broadcast on TV locally. Channel 69 from Allentown had the live broadcast.
As the comics began, it became clear that the 250th Birthday of America would be a recurring theme. At least six different groups had patriotic themes, and one even gave out top hats along Broad Street. Many marchers handed out beads to spectators. Some collected a lot, while others were content with just one or two.
Mayor Cherelle Parker marched along Market Street to announce the String Bands. She seemed happy and welcoming toward the parade.
The Fancy Brigades performed at the Pennsylvania Convention Center for two shows. After the first, some of them marched down Broad Street for a few blocks. While thousands showed up in person, this parade is still a far cry from its heyday. The parade ran past Snyder Avenue, with the end point at Washington Avenue this year. Years ago, it was impossible to get a spot to stand. Today, people could stroll right up to the front and claim a spot anytime they wanted to.