The projected forecast for the 2018 Mummers Parade is sunny with a high of 22 degrees and a low of 11 degrees. If the forecast pans out, this could be the coldest parade in 41 years. The maximum temperature on January 1, 1977 was only 25 degrees. The all time record for low temperature for New Years Day in Philadelphia was 14 degrees on January 1, 1997. The average high all time on New Years Day in Philadelphia is 40 degrees and the average low is 27 degrees, so it’s certainly not unprecedented to have a cold Mummers Parade. If anybody knows how to stay warm, it’s the Mummers and their fans.  I’m sure that everyone would love another 52 degree Mummers Parade like 2017, but the 2018 Mummers Parade in the cold will be just fine.

Here are some tips to stay warm for the Parade.

• Bundle Up and wear layers to prevent heat loss. Keep your hands and feet warm because hypothermia is most likely to begin in extremities.
• Indulge in Foods That Help You Keep Warm like soups, spicy foods, hot coffee and teas.
• Have some booze… Maybe. Scientist have proven that alcohol decreases core temperatures, although Mummers and parade fans know alcoholic beverages make you feel warm on New Years Day. Please drink responsibly.   

There will be port-a-potties along the parade route, but a great place to get warm and use the bathroom is at the Kimmel Center. The Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts opens its doors for the 13th consecutive year for its annual FREE New Year’s Day Celebration. The campus will be alive with holiday sights and sounds as patrons are invited to warm up indoors to enjoy panoramic views of the Mummers Parade, performances, and activities from 10:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. The Kimmel Center is located at: 300 S Broad St, Philadelphia, PA 19102