Our History

The 2023 Parade marks the 63rd Anniversary of the Fancy Brigade Association, which was established in 1960. Could the original Officers and Delegates have ever envisioned the many changes—both positive and challenging—that would unfold over the past six decades?

Many believe the Fancy Brigade Association truly came into its own with the formation of its own Division in 1978. This year is significant as it marks the official recognition of the Fancy Brigade Division by the City of Philadelphia. As the youngest of the four Divisions in the New Year’s Day Parade—alongside the Comics, Fancy Clubs, and String Bands—the Fancy Brigades have a rich history that predates 1978.

The origins of the Fancy Brigades trace back to the early 1940s, when they were initially known as “Groups.” By 1947, they had transitioned to the name Brigades, parading as part of the Fancy Division and soon adopted the title Fancy Brigades. Each Brigade was affiliated with a Fancy Club, referred to as the “Mother Club,” which typically included around five Brigades. While these Brigades competed against one another, their scores contributed to the overall total of their Mother Club. The modern era of the Brigades began in 1950, with all prizes awarded since then meticulously documented. As previously mentioned, the Fancy Brigade Association was founded in 1960 to provide a unified voice for the Brigades and establish competition rules. In 1963, the Association introduced Captain Prizes, starting with the 1964 Parade.

Alpha New Year's Brigade 1975 - Captain Joe Lombardo
Jokers Fancy Brigade - 1978

After the 1977 Parade, the Fancy Brigade Association made a bold decision to request a separate Division from the City of Philadelphia. This move demonstrated unity among the Brigades, led by their Association. One Brigade faced disqualification from its Mother Club due to insufficient points, which threatened its ability to compete. The Brigades sought independence from the reliance on another Division.

Initially hesitant, the City was concerned that a new Division would extend the parade’s duration. However, after months of discussions, the City granted the Brigades their request on the condition that they would parade last in line behind the String Bands, as they had previously paraded second in the Fancy Division.

The inaugural parade for the new Division on January 1, 1978, began with unexpected snowfall shortly after it started at Broad & Oregon, continuing throughout the day. By the time the Brigades reached City Hall, the drill area was blanketed in snow, and a fire near Broad & Locust forced a detour. Fortunately, the years that followed brought improvements. The Brigades adapted their costume designs and performances to shine under the lights, evolving into elaborate displays featuring floats that rivaled the size of buildings.

In 1997, the Brigades made another daring decision, voting to move their show indoors to the Pennsylvania Convention Center for a “finale” after the Broad Street Parade. This indoor event would serve as the judged competition. Despite skepticism, the 1998 Parade was hailed as a resounding success, with columnist Ron Goldwyn of the Philadelphia Daily News dubbing it the “Year of the Fancy Brigades.” Following sold-out shows in 1998, 1999, and 2000, the Brigades further expanded by adding a second show at noon beginning with the 2001 Parade. That same year, the Brigades established the Dan Lerro Cup, awarded each New Year’s Night to the winning Brigade. Named in honor of a beloved supporter, the Cup includes all Fancy Brigade Champions since 1950. In 2017, in memory of integral president and former captain Jim Julia Sr., the Cup was renamed the Jim Julia Sr. Memorial Trophy.

The Fancy Brigade Association and its members remain committed to positively impacting both the New Year’s Day Parade and the vibrant neighborhoods of our great City. Make your reservations now to join us at the Pennsylvania Convention Center on January 1st. Experience the dazzling fusion of Broadway and Mardi Gras as the Fancy Brigades usher in the New Year in true Philadelphia style! Wishing everyone a VERY HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

To delve deeper into our rich history, we encourage you to visit the Mummers Museum in South Philadelphia, where you can learn more about the parade and its origins.

Past Presidents of the Fancy Brigade Association

  • Joseph Walters
  • William Harvey
  • Jack Walsh
  • William Keller, Jr.
  • Richard Herron, Sr.
  • Tom Cloney
  • Jim Julia
  • Jim Bradley
  • Tom Knight, Jr.
  • Jack Hatty, Jr. (Current President)

 

Written by: Anthony Stagliano, Jr.
Historical Consultant: Dominic Lazzaro, Jr.