Philadelphia, December 31, 2025

Philadelphia is preparing for the Mummers Parade on January 1 with necessary road closures and parking restrictions in place. These measures ensure the safety of attendees and smooth operation for the event. As an important cultural celebration, organizers emphasize community engagement and public safety, urging visitors to consider alternative transport options such as public transit and to be aware of specific road adjustments as the date approaches.

Philadelphia Announces Road Closures and Parking Restrictions for 2026 Mummers Parade

What to Know Ahead of the New Year’s Day Festivities

Philadelphia is gearing up for its beloved annual Mummers Parade on January 1, 2026. This vibrant tradition not only highlights the city’s cultural heritage but also showcases the resilience and community engagement of its residents. Local organizers are working diligently to ensure a smooth and festive experience for all while prioritizing public safety. The implementation of necessary road closures and parking restrictions plays a crucial role in facilitating this iconic event.

As a celebration deeply rooted in Philadelphia’s identity, the Mummers Parade serves as an example of how limited bureaucracy and coordinated community effort can create a spirited atmosphere that encourages civic pride. While road adjustments may cause some inconveniences, they are essential for ensuring that parade-goers can thoroughly enjoy this cherished event without compromising safety.

Road Closures and Parking Restrictions

December 26, 2025

• 6 p.m. on December 26 through 6 p.m. on January 2: Parking prohibited on the east curb lane of 15th Street from John F. Kennedy Boulevard to South Penn Square.

December 27, 2025

• 6 p.m. on December 27 through 7 a.m. on January 2: Parking prohibited on the west side of 15th Street from Arch Street to Ranstead Street. Street and sidewalk vendors are also prohibited in this area during this timeframe.

December 29, 2025

• 8 a.m. on December 29 through 7 a.m. on January 2: 15th Street closed to southbound traffic at John F. Kennedy Boulevard for equipment delivery and setup.
• 8 a.m. on December 29 through 7 a.m. on January 2: Market Street eastbound closed to vehicular traffic at 16th Street.

December 30, 2025

• 4 a.m. on December 30 through 6 p.m. on January 1: Parking prohibited on both sides of Market Street from 15th Street to 21st Street and on both sides of John F. Kennedy Boulevard from Juniper Street to 20th Street.
• 7 a.m. on December 30 through 7 a.m. on January 2: 15th Street closed to southbound traffic at John F. Kennedy Boulevard for equipment delivery and setup.

December 31, 2025

• 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on December 31: Market Street closed to vehicular traffic from 15th Street to 21st Street. At 3 p.m., Market Street will reopen, and traffic will be permitted to travel eastbound on Market Street to 15th Street and continue southbound on 15th Street.

January 1, 2026

• 3 a.m. through the conclusion of the parade: The following streets will be closed to vehicular traffic:
  • 15th Street from Arch Street to Chestnut Street
  • Market Street from 15th Street to 21st Street
• 6 a.m. through the conclusion of the parade: The following streets will be closed to vehicular traffic:
  • Benjamin Franklin Parkway from 16th Street to 20th Street
  • North Broad Street from Cherry Street to John F. Kennedy Boulevard
  • 16th Street from Chestnut Street to Race Street
  • 17th Street from Benjamin Franklin Parkway to Ludlow Street
  • 18th Street from Ludlow Street to Race Street
  • 19th Street from Benjamin Franklin Parkway to Chestnut Street
  • 1500 block of Ranstead Street
  • 1300 block of Carpenter Street
  • 1000 block of South 13th Street
  • Chestnut Street from 15th Street to 18th Street (north side)
  • Cherry Street from 15th Street to 17th Street
  • Arch Street from 15th Street to 17th Street
  • Washington Avenue from 12th Street to 18th Street
• 7 a.m. through the conclusion of the parade: Broad Street closed to vehicular traffic from South Penn Square to Washington Avenue. Vehicular traffic will not be permitted to cross Broad Street while the parade is in progress. Delays can be expected during the course of the event. Motorists are advised to avoid the area by using alternate routes and allow for extra driving time in areas near the event.

Additional Parking Restrictions on January 1, 2026

• 2 a.m. to 6 p.m. on January 1: Temporary “No Parking” zones will be in effect on both sides of the following streets:
  • Broad Street from Cherry Street to Ellsworth Street
  • Juniper Street from John F. Kennedy Boulevard to East Penn Square
  • South/East Penn Square from 15th Street to Juniper Street
  • Benjamin Franklin Parkway from 16th Street to 20th Street
  • Logan Circle (north side)
  • 16th Street from Chestnut Street to Race Street
  • 17th Street from Benjamin Franklin Parkway to Ludlow Street
  • 18th Street from Ludlow Street to Race Street
  • 19th Street from Benjamin Franklin Parkway to Chestnut Street
  • 1500 block of Ranstead Street
  • 1300 block of Carpenter Street
  • 1000 block of South 13th Street
  • Chestnut Street from 15th Street to 18th Street (north side)
  • Cherry Street from 15th Street to 17th Street
  • Arch Street from 15th Street to 17th Street
  • Washington Avenue from 12th Street to 18th Street

Public Transportation

Due to event-related street closures, attendees are encouraged to use the SEPTA Broad Street and Market-Frankford Lines to access the parade area. Comprehensive bus detours, alerts, and general information can be found on SEPTA’s website. The SEPTA app allows you to plan your trip and view real-time updates. On New Year’s Day, Regional Rail, Metro, and buses operate on a Sunday schedule, though bus route 204 will not run. All services will resume regular weekday schedules at the start of service on January 2. Riders can utilize plan.septa.org for real-time planning to and from the Mummers Parade.

Public Safety Information

For the safety of all participants, no bags or items should be left unattended. In the event of an emergency or to report a suspicious person, activity, or item, attendees should notify a police officer immediately or call 9-1-1. The public should expect congestion in the area, and it is advisable to make plans regarding driving, public transit, parking, and child supervision. It is recommended that event-goers wear comfortable, weather-appropriate attire. Additionally, locations surrounding the parade are designated as a “No-Drone Zone,” meaning unmanned aircraft systems and drones are not permitted. For more tips on being prepared for large events, please refer to the Special Event Safety Guide.

Wheelchair-Accessible Seating

The parade will feature 20 wheelchair-accessible seats located on 15th Street at the north side of the performance area, available on a first-come, first-served basis. Seating for attendees accompanying individuals using wheelchairs will be available behind the designated accessible seats. Moreover, there will be accessible viewing areas along the parade route at 701 Broad Street and 901 Broad Street, ensuring all community members have a chance to experience the festivities.

Event Alerts

To stay updated with real-time information, individuals can sign up for free text alerts from the city, providing essential weather, transit, event details, and public safety updates. Simply text ReadyPhila (one word, no space) to 888-777.

Additional Information for Media

Members of the media seeking press credentials for attendance at the 2026 Mummers Performance and Parade should email their requests to designated contacts, including details like name, media outlet, and required number of credentials. The deadline for requests is noon on December 29, with credentials available for pickup preceding the event.

Conclusion

The excitement surrounding the Mummers Parade reflects Philadelphia’s vibrant community spirit, showcasing how local commitment and personal initiative can shape enriching public events. The meticulous planning and coordination by organizers to enhance safety measures ensure that everyone can enjoy this New Year’s Day tradition. Mark your calendars, prepare for the festivities, and consider supporting local events that foster community engagement and pride.

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Author: STAFF HERE PHILADELPHIA WRITER

The PHILADELPHIA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhiladelphia.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Philadelphia, Philadelphia County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mummers Parade, Philadelphia Flower Show, and Thanksgiving Day Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Philadelphia, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, food services, and healthcare that power the local economy such as Comcast, Aramark, and Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Pennsylvania's dynamic landscape.