The Mummers Parade is the nation’s oldest continuously operating folk parade, originating in 1901.

For 120 years more than 10,000 men, women, and children in lavish, glittering costumes do the “Mummers Strut” down Broad Street, stopping to perform at three performance areas along the way as part of a fierce competition.

The Mummers are comprised of 40+ organized clubs, categorized into five divisions that each have their own performance specialty: The Comics, Wench Brigades, Fancies, String Bands, and Fancy Brigades.

Over the years, many Mummers have come through the r.e. to find creative ways to embellish their outfits with reclaimed materials. Our own building neighbor Pauly Obrien (far left) was part of the Riverfront New Years Brigade and we had the pleasure of watching his costume brought to life using some materials he found here!

So, if any of you long-time, new or future performers are reading this, it’s never too early to start planning next years costume! The r.e. is the perfect place to find sustainably sourced goods to create a spectacular outfit for The Mummers parade!