The Mummers Parade takes place every New Year's Day in Philadelphia, a fantastic way to get out of the house the morning after and extend the holiday season celebration one final day. "Local clubs" participate with bright costumes, instruments, and brillant flair, stopping every few blocks to perform and impress the gathered crowds. 

I found it a really great way to start the New Year - a very diverse and festive experience. Many people take to the streets for hours, visiting the vendors and walking the closed off streets of the city. Others gather at City Hall where the judging takes place, raising their voices for their favorite club. 

Here's a video and some still shots of the parade (photos by Will McGough and Andrea Ramsdell): 

On my tour of Nassau I also met Arlene Nash Ferguson, the Bahamian woman in the video below, and she gave me a tour of her museum and a quick history lesson of the Junkanoo Festival.

The word Junkanoo developed after a slave named John Canoe led the charge for the freedom of slaves in the 17th Century (seriously). It's held every year during Christmas time - a large parade with costumes, music, and Bahamian flair. 

Funny fact: The costumes are so big and heavy that a strong wind one year forced the festival to be canceled - the participants were getting blown over (one young man broke his leg)! 

Check out this video to get a feel for it -  perhaps an idea for a holiday getaway next year?