Mummers Parade Returns To Philadelphia After Being Cancelled Due To Pandemic

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- A long-time tradition returned to Philadelphia Sunday morning. The Mummers Parade was back after getting postponed a day due to the weather and canceled in 2021 due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

Thousands dressed in colorful and lavish costumes and strutted down Broad Street in America's oldest folk parade.

For many, the Mummers Parade is a New Year's Day tradition.  

"This is my first time back in 30 years," one woman said. 

From the looks of it, it was worth it. 

But it's not only a good time for spectators, the mummers themselves look forward to strutting and performing in these elaborate costumes.  

Jack Cooney and his family were out early Sunday morning. Friends and family call him "Dancer Jack" at 82 years old  

"I teach karaoke, I sing, I DJ, that's just the beginning," Cooney said.  

"Our whole goal is to bring happiness and memories to the New Year," LJ Cooney Estes said. 

"Once you are here a couple of years you know everybody is just loving and caring," Arian Estes said.

Some of these elaborate costumes weigh up to 40 pounds or more.  

And if you have never been to the Mummers Parade, it's definitely an experience. 

"The brigades, the Comics, the String Bands they do a phenomenal job every year," a woman said.

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