PHILADELPHIA--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The world-renowned, family-friendly Philadelphia Mummers Parade will kick off 2013 with an only-in-Philadelphia spectacle that is sure to dazzle and delight parade-goers. One of the longest running traditions in America, the Mummers Parade features one-of-a-kind costumes, joyful music, and inspired, fun-filled performances. The 10,000 vibrantly-dressed Mummers step off on New Year’s Day at 10 a.m., beginning at Broad and Washington Ave. and strutting through clouds of confetti and glitter towards City Hall.
Starting the festivities are the Comics, parodying hot political issues and pop culture, followed by the Comic Wench brigades of men in bonnets and bloomers. Next are the glamorous Fancies with giant, sequin-studded, feathered costumes, followed by the legendary, imaginatively-dressed String Bands who entertain with intricate choreography and delightful musical arrangements.
Parade-goers can enjoy the festivities from five special performance zones. For an exclusive view of each division’s final performance, the Grand Stand entertainment zone on JFK Boulevard between 15th and 16th Streets offers more than 1,500 ticketed bleacher seats.
For indoor entertainment, the Fancy Brigade Finale features dynamic, choreographed performances, heart-pounding music and glowing costumes in front of handmade backdrops that soar 24-feet high. Shows are at noon and 5 p.m. in the Pennsylvania Convention Center.
For tickets to the Mummers Parade Grandstand bleacher seats ($19) or indoor Fancy Brigade Finale ($17), call 1-800-537-7676, visit www.independencevisitorcenter.com or purchase in-person at the Independence Visitor Center on 6th and Market Streets or at the Welcome Center on 16th Street and JFK Boulevard.
Behind the Sequins Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bwsbkbx6vq0&feature=share&list=PLOU_XZaN_aQ5khUVQDvfMkua-GVhs4D0h
For more than a century, Mummers have marched from South Philadelphia to Center City on New Year’s Day while displaying unique costumes, music and pageantry. The Philadelphia Mummers Parade began in 1900. For more information, visit www.phillymummers.com.