mummer

The word "mummer" brings to mind bright costumes, playful acting, and old folk traditions. Historically, a mummer was a masked or disguised performer who took part in seasonal entertainment, often by going from house to house during Christmas or New Year's. These performances could include short plays, songs, dances, or simple comic scenes, and they were often done as part of a local custom.

The tradition is especially well known in Britain and Ireland, and related customs later became part of life in North America. In Philadelphia, the idea developed into the annual Mummers Parade, which began on January 1, 1901. Today the parade includes detailed costumes, music, and organized group routines, giving the word a strong local connection there.

More generally, "mummer" can mean a person who performs in disguise, especially in a traditional or festive setting. It is not usually used for just any party guest in costume; the word normally suggests a public performance, a folk custom, or a parade tradition.

So, whether you picture a house-to-house holiday performer or a participant in the Philadelphia Mummers Parade, "mummer" points to a tradition of disguise, performance, and shared celebration.