Mummers Parade 2007
The Philadelphia Mummers Parade began in 1901. It is a uniquely
Philadelphia neighborhood thing. You can read about them @
mummers.com
When I was a kid, my parents would not take us to this parade because
the men in the comic division paraded in blackface and did offensive
skits. Blackface was not outlawed until *1964*! I used to picket against
the parade in the late 50s/early 60s because of the blackface and that
no women were allowed in the parade.
My sis is a *huge* fan of the parade, so I went with she and her friends
yesterday to experience the string bands who march after the comics
and fancy divisions had finished. To the string bands, costumes are
not as important and the emphasis is on the music.
This orange guy is one of the final fancies. He was fighting a very
difficult battle against the wind.
It was 70ยบ and sunny. We had a good spot. There were plenty of $5
t-shirts on sale. We were near Starbucks where there was not too long
a wait for the restroom. Priceless!!
2 Comments:
Wow this is colourful and full of energy! What about a pic of you in your souvenir t shirt? lol.
Haven't worn it yet, Lynn; but when I do, I'll get someone to take a picture. Most of us at the parade were wearing EAGLES (our footy team) gear.
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