Mummers Add a Second Parade, Through Manayunk, Around Mardi Gras
By Steve Tawa
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- If you don't get enough of the Mummers during the New Year's Day parade on Broad Street, a Manayunk version of the Mummers' Parade is about to gain traction.
The Manayunk Development Corporation is guaranteeing the Mummers at least $10,000 for what they hope will become an annual fundraiser: a mile-long strut along Main Street, to be called the "Philadelphia Mummers Mardi Gras in Manayunk Parade."
At least ten of the 16 string bands have committed to the February 22, 2015 event (which will miss Mardi Gras, February 17th, by a few days).
"This is a family friendly, fun, daytime event," notes MDC executive director Jane Lipton, who says it will run from 10am to about noon, and they will have zero tolerance for any outdoor drinking.
"After the parade, there's 30 establishments on Main Street," she notes.
The event is free, but you can purchase a bracelet and a passport book for $10 that will get you discounts at Manayunk establishments.
All of the proceeds go to the Mummers, according to Philadelphia String Band Association president Tom Loomis.
"We're self-funded these days," he notes. "Every costume you see on Broad Street, and later here in Manayunk, we raise the money."
Supporters hope the event will promote and preserve the Mummers' tradition for generations to come.