Overcast skies and the threat of rain didn’t dampen the spirts of the attendees that turned out to watch the Mummers strut down Haddon Avenue at the 3rd Annual String Band Parade on the first Sunday in May.
The Serenade to Camden County, sponsored by the Camden County Board of Commissioners and Haddon Township, offered an entertaining day filled with music, food, vendors, and games for the entire family. Members of the Philadelphia Mummers String Band Association started their march at Crystal Lake Avenue, past Reunion Hall and the Pour House, ending at Haddon Square.
“This fun event showcases the musical talents of our neighbors and perfectly captures the spirit of spring,” Haddon Township Mayor Randall Teague said. “It offers a wonderful opportunity for all of us to enjoy the parade while coming together to support our local restaurants and businesses, ensuring a fun-filled, family friendly experience for everyone.”
The parade started three years ago, when members of the Camden County Board of Commissioners approached Haddon Township with the idea of hosting a Mummer’s parade on Haddon Avenue, due to its central location and variety of businesses and restaurants along its main thoroughfare. The event serves as a fundraiser for the string bands to raise money for their annual New Year’s Day parade.
“We all grew up watching the Mummers perform on New Year’s Day, and it’s nice to see them live and in person in your community,” Teague said. “It’s fun for everybody. The band members are very engaging and they encourage participation from the audience, bringing children, seniors and anyone else who’s willing to dance with them. It’s a wonderful experience.”
A number of local businesses and restaurants also sponsored the bands to play at their venues throughout the day, including: Reunion Hall, The Pour House, Brewers Towne Tavern, PJ Whelihan’s, Central Taco, Treno Pizza Bar, Keg & Kitchen, Severino’s Pasta, Cook’s Liquors, Tom Fischer’s Tavern, and the Tap Room featuring Santucci’s.
“I think this event is something that’s unique to the area, and it’s something different than the typical concerts or craft fairs or even the July 4th or pride parades,” Teague said. “It’s a great way for people to discover our community and experience our local businesses, bars and restaurants, and enjoy all that Haddon Township has to offer.”
