Philadelphia is a city rich with tradition, history and cultural treasures. Among these treasures is a one-of-a-kind celebration blending neighborhood roots with European customs and culture in an extravaganza known as the Mummers Parade. This annual New Years’ Day event brings south Broad Street alive with music and art, from the unique musical sound and movements of the string bands to the elaborate costumes and staging of the fancies to the “strutting” and outrageous antics of the comics and wench brigades.

While the richness and art form of the nation’s oldest continuous folk parade is great, the need to preserve this tradition for future generations of Philadelphians is even greater.

Because of the economic crisis faced by the City of Philadelphia, we understand and respect the situation faced by the current administration, as the Mummers are striving to be self reliant in continuing our tradition. Therefore, we are asking for your help, appealing to the general public for financial support for the 2010 Parade and beyond. We again want to thank those generous contributors whose gift last year truly saved the Parade.

The fabric of Mummery goes well beyond New Years Day. The Mummer groups based throughout the Delaware Valley are an integral part of their communities, involved year-round as volunteers in charitable causes while constantly serving as ambassadors of the City of Philadelphia by their performances throughout the country.

Your contribution is an important investment in keeping the entire Mummers heritage alive! We invite you to be part of this great tradition by making a donation today, either by check or money order, or by credit card (via PayPal). Your gift is also tax deductible and will be greatly appreciated by savethemummers.com.