Mummer’s unofficial event is scheduled despite the town’s request to stay at home

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) – There are circulating around the neighborhoods of South Philadelphia and there are flyers reminding people that the city has canceled the upcoming Mummer’s New Year’s Day parade.

“Nothing is being organized. There is no official parade,” said Same Regalbuto, president of the Philadelphia Mummers String Band Association.

Regalbuto says they are asking their members to rule out this year’s tradition.

“As a person directly affected by COVID, we urge people to stay at home and be safe with their families,” he said.

Online, a Facebook page with two anonymous hosts declared a protest against Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney.

About 2800 people have already signed and confirmed that they will participate.

The city is urging people to stay home and stay safe.

“We’re just going to go down, prop up and give everyone a free hand sanitizer,” said Michael McGrail.

McGrail is not a member of any Mummer’s club, but plans to hand out safety kits to those who want to attend Friday’s unofficial event.

“We’re moving forward anyway,” he said.

“It hurts a little because we’re here, and we usually have a lot of business when they’re around here,” said Neil Mininger.

Meanwhile, some local residents feel that the New Year will be calmer.

Others have not yet decided whether to attend the unofficial festivities.

‘Maybe. Maybe not. I’m a little nervous about it. I don’t want to catch it or anything, ”Rebecca Nini said.