
The Duffy String Band, a renowned participant in Philadelphia’s annual Mummer’s Parade, has long been celebrated for its vibrant and entertaining performances that captivate audiences and exemplify the rich tradition of Mummers in the city. The Mummers Parade, held annually on New Year’s Day, is a cherished Philadelphia tradition dating back to the 19th century, characterized by elaborate costumes, spirited music, and lively performances.
Photos + Article by @a.j.kinney

Duffy String Band, established originally in 1945 as the Firefighters band (Captained by Fire Chief George Duffy), has become a staple in the Mummers Parade, consistently delivering crowd-pleasing routines and showcasing the talents of its dedicated members.

Known for their dynamic string band sound, the group blends traditional Mummers music with contemporary elements, creating a unique and exciting experience for parade-goers.

As the Duffy String Band takes to the streets of Philadelphia, their distinctive costumes immediately catch the eye. The band meticulously crafts elaborate and thematic outfits, often adhering to a specific theme chosen for the year. This year’s theme ‘Where the Wild Things Are’.








Whether it’s a nod to historical events, pop culture references, or imaginative fantasies, the costumes of Duffy String Band are a visual feast, contributing to the overall spectacle of the parade.

The heart of the Duffy String Band’s performance lies in their musical prowess led by Captain Jake Kudrick. Jake, at the age of 12, took over as Captain when his father Teddy passed away in 2017. Teddy had served as captain of Duffy for 32 years and had been inducted into the Philadelphia Mummers String Band Association Hall of Fame.










With a combination of string instruments, percussion, and brass, the band produces a lively and infectious sound that reverberates through the streets. The carefully choreographed routines and synchronized movements of the Mummers contribute to the overall energy, creating a sense of unity and joy among both the performers and the spectators.

One of the highlights of the Duffy String Band’s performance is their ability to engage the audience as they walk down South Broad St. towards the Union building.

Whether it’s through playful interactions, crowd participation, or the sheer exuberance of their performance, the band manages to create a sense of camaraderie with the onlookers.

The Mummers Parade is as much about the connection between the performers and the community as it is about the spectacle itself, and Duffy String Band excels in fostering this connection.

Over the years, Duffy String Band has earned a reputation for excellence in Mummers tradition, garnering accolades (John ‘Uncle Jack’ Christy was inducted into the Mummer’s String Band Association Hall of Fame 2024) and awards for their outstanding performances (Top 5 Captain, 2024).








Their commitment to preserving and evolving the art form has solidified their place as one of the beloved and enduring participants in the Mummer’s Parade, contributing to the cultural fabric of Philadelphia and bringing joy to generations of spectators.