Mummers Parade, Philadelphia

Favorite thing: Every January 1st since 1901, the city of Philadelphia has sponsored a New Year's Mummer's Parade. This unique celebration has long been a source or pride in the city of Philadelphia. People come from all over the country come to participate in the Mummer's parade despite the often frigid temperatures on the street. The parade has 3 segments- the comics (read: drunks), the fancies (my favorite) and the string bands (most people's favorite.) It's an extremely long parade which lasts most of the day. Only a real "trooper" could stand the temperatures to see the whole thing outside. I went once and I loved it, but it was too cold! I watch it on tv instead. But if you have the occasion to be in Philly on New Years, don't miss the Mummer's Parade. There are also various performances throughout the year with various string bands. And of course, there's the Mummer's Musuem, which is small, but interesting.

http://mummers.com/