South Philadelphia String Band Ready for 125th Mummers Performance

The South Philadelphia String Band is gearing up for its appearance in the 125th annual Mummers Parade as part of New Year's Day celebrations in Philadelphia.

Band captain Denny Palandro, now in his 19th season, described the lead-up to the parade as chaotic yet organized in a statement shared with WFMZ-TV 69 News. Rehearsals have been taking place since December began in local gyms, school halls, and clubhouses, featuring the full drill, music, dancers, and prop construction.

Planning begins well in advance of the parade, with preparations for next year already underway as memories of the current parade linger.

To maintain cohesion and safety, each string band performance is capped at 67 marchers, musicians, and actors, Palandro said. Synchronized routines and costumes add to the mix.

If you can't make it to Philadelphia in person to watch the parade, you can view it on WFMZ-TV, METV2 (WDPN-TV), or online at WFMZ.com. The parade will also be available on the 69News app or the WFMZ+ app (for Roku, Firestick, Apple TV, and newer Samsung TVs).