New Year's in Philadelphia: Fireworks, the Mummers Parade & Where to Stay
How to ring in 2027 the Philly way — from midnight fireworks to the city's wildest parade.
Most cities celebrate New Year's for one night. Philadelphia keeps the party going into New Year's Day with the Mummers Parade, a 100-plus-year-old tradition of sequins, feathers, string bands and neighborhood pride that fills Broad Street from morning to night.
Here's how to plan your New Year's in Philly, from where to watch the fireworks to the best spots for the parade — and why you'll want to book your stay soon.
Book early: New Year's is one of the busiest weekends of the year in Philly, and larger homes go first. Several of our largest Ramblei homes are already booked for December 30–31.
New Year's Eve: fireworks and parties
Date: Thursday, December 31, 2026
Philly traditionally rings in the new year with fireworks over the Delaware River at Penn's Landing, often with an early show for families and a big display at midnight. Last year the city also threw a free concert and midnight fireworks on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway to kick off America's 250th anniversary. The city usually announces this year's plans in December — we'll update this guide when it does.
Where to celebrate:
Penn's Landing and the Delaware River waterfront — the classic spot for fireworks views.
Old City — bars, restaurants and parties within walking distance of the river.
Rittenhouse Square and Center City — upscale dinners and hotel bar parties.
Fishtown and Northern Liberties — the city's most popular nightlife neighborhoods.
Ramblei Local Tip: Book New Year's Eve dinner now — popular restaurants fill weeks ahead. Then walk to the fireworks so you don't fight for a ride at midnight.
New Year's Day: the Mummers Parade
Date: Friday, January 1, 2027
Time: Usually about 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Route: South on Broad Street from City Hall toward Washington Avenue (last year's route; check this year's official route)
Cost: Free to watch along Broad Street; reserved seats near the judging area are sold through the Independence Visitor Center
The Mummers Parade is Philly's most uniquely Philly event. Thousands of Mummers in elaborate, hand-made costumes march in five divisions — Comics, Wench Brigades, Fancies, the famous String Bands and the Fancy Brigades — competing for prizes in front of City Hall.
Best places to watch:
Near City Hall — where the groups perform their full routines for the judges. Most crowded, best show.
Further south on Broad Street — more room for families, with a steady stream of marchers.
Getting around: Broad Street closes to traffic early on New Year's morning and stays closed until the parade ends. Take SEPTA's Broad Street Line or walk instead of driving.
Ramblei Local Tip: Dress in layers and bring a folding chair — you'll be outside for hours. Grab a hot breakfast nearby before you claim your spot.
After the parade: Two Street
When the parade ends, the party moves to South 2nd Street ("Two Street") in South Philly, home to many Mummers clubs. Groups march and play in the street well into the evening. It's loud, crowded and pure Philly.
Ramblei Local Tip: If you want the full Two Street experience, stay in Queen Village or South Philly so you can walk home at the end of the night.
Where to stay for New Year's in Philadelphia
New Year's is a group trip, and a whole home means everyone stays together — no splitting up across hotel rooms, and a place to regroup between the fireworks and the parade.
Old City — walk to the waterfront fireworks
Luxury 3BR/3BA with Air Hockey Lounge — Space for your whole crew, a short walk to Penn's Landing.
Old City 2BR with Shuffleboard — In the middle of Old City's New Year's Eve bars and restaurants.
Queen Village and South Philly — near Two Street and the parade
Luxury Queen Village 4BR/4.5BA with Rooftop — A rooftop patio for New Year's toasts, close to the Two Street party.
Queen Village Grand 3BR with Rooftop & Garage — Private parking, a big plus when Broad Street is closed.
Spacious 3BR Oasis with Patio & Arcade — On South Street, with arcade games for after the countdown.
4BR Townhome with Rooftop & Backyard — Sleeps 8, with a rooftop deck.
Spacious 3BR/3BA, Sleeps 7 — Three full bathrooms for a group getting ready for the night out.
Center City — near the parade's judging area at City Hall
Designer 3BR Home in Rittenhouse Square — Walk to City Hall for the best Mummers performances.
See all Ramblei Philadelphia stays →
New Year's in Philadelphia FAQ
When is the 2027 Mummers Parade?
Friday, January 1, 2027. The parade usually runs from about 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. along Broad Street, starting at City Hall.
Is the Mummers Parade free?
Yes, it's free to watch from anywhere along Broad Street. Reserved seats near the judging area at City Hall are sold through the Independence Visitor Center.
Where can I watch fireworks in Philadelphia on New Year's Eve?
The Delaware River waterfront at Penn's Landing is the traditional spot. The city announces each year's fireworks and concert plans in December, so check official updates before you go.
What is Two Street?
South 2nd Street in South Philadelphia, home to many Mummers clubs. After the parade, Mummers groups march and celebrate there into the evening.
Where should I stay for New Year's in Philadelphia?
Old City is closest to the waterfront fireworks. Queen Village and South Philly are best for the Mummers and the Two Street party. Center City puts you near the parade's judging area at City Hall. Book early — larger homes sell out first.
Stay curious. Explore local. Stay Ramblei.
Book your New Year's stay in Philadelphia →
Event times and routes can change. Check official city announcements before you go.