SOUTH PHILADELPHIA — It is the crossover event nobody saw coming, but everyone suddenly needs a ticket for. After 40 mph wind gusts turned the New Year’s Day parade into a freezing, feather-wrecking nightmare two weeks ago, the Philadelphia String Band Association was left scrambling to find a way to showcase the performances that didn't get their due on Broad Street.
The solution? They are trading the asphalt for the turf.
In a press conference held at the Xfinity Live! plaza this morning, organizers announced that the "String Band Spectacular"—usually held indoors at the Convention Center—is moving to Lincoln Financial Field on Saturday, January 31st.
"The strut must go on"
"We spent thousands of hours and thousands of dollars on these suits," said Jimmy "Knuckles" Rossi, a saxophone player for the Fralinger String Band. "We weren't going to let a little wind ruin the year. When the Eagles offered the stadium, we said yes immediately. We're going to fill that place with banjos."
It’s a historic move. While Mummers have performed at Eagles halftimes before, they have never headlined their own stadium show.
The Logistics: Feathers on the 50-Yard Line
Transforming an NFL stadium into a Mummers clubhouse presents some unique challenges.
- The Sound: Instead of acoustic performances, the bands will be mic’d up through the stadium's massive concert-grade sound system. "You're going to hear that glockenspiel in the upper deck," organizers promised.
- The Big Screen: The giant 4K video boards at the Linc will broadcast close-ups of the elaborate costumes, giving fans a better view than they ever got standing four rows deep on Broad Street.
- The Weather: Fortunately, the long-range forecast for the 31st looks clear, but the event is "rain or shine." (Though let's be honest, Mummers are waterproof).
The Tailgate Factor
Perhaps the most exciting part of the news is the confirmation that the parking lots will open at 11:00 AM for tailgating.
Philly fans are used to grilling sausages before football games, but a Mummers tailgate is a different beast. Expect to hear "Oh, Dem Golden Slippers" blasting from pickup trucks, see impromptu struts breaking out in Lot K, and witness a lot less face paint and a lot more sequins.
"It’s the best of both worlds," said Sarah Jenkins, a season ticket holder from Mayfair. "I can drink a beer in the parking lot and watch my cousin play the banjo? Sign me up."
Ticket Details
Tickets go on sale this Friday at 10:00 AM via Ticketmaster.
- General Admission: $25 (Lower Level seating)
- Club Level: $50 (Includes access to heated lounges, for those who still haven't thawed out from New Year's).
Pro Tip: This is going to sell out. It’s weird, it’s loud, and it’s the most Philadelphia thing to happen in 2026 so far. Do not miss it.
