In one form or another, Mummers have been mumming since ancient Rome, and in Philly since 1901 (officially), but the annual festival of hooch and sequins has marched over a few speed bumps in recent years. In 2011, there was the whole “13 Arrested in Prostitution Raid at Philly Mummers Club” thing. Last year, there was that giant brawl on Two Street. And of course there was that Dec. 10 warehouse fire that damaged — but, thankfully, did not destroy — props and sets belonging to the Fralinger String Band. Basically, Philly’s most unavoidable and beloved/beloathed tradition could use a comeback, or a hug, or at least an incident-free day of painted beards, adorably unhip skits and people who can somehow walk and the play the banjo at the same time. Let’s do this, people. Dress warm. Don’t get too drunk. Pee only in designated pee receptacles. Be nice to everybody.
Tue., Jan. 1, 8:50 a.m.-about 6 p.m., along Broad Street, beginning at Oregon Avenue and ending at City Hall, mummers.com.
