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At 93 years old, Avril Madge Davidge embarked on an extraordinary journey to the United States, flying for the first time in three decades to witness a folk parade in Philadelphia that had captured her heart. A lifelong resident of Swansea, Avril had never previously visited America or owned a passport. However, after the passing of her husband Clifford in 2023, she discovered the Mummers Parade through online videos and became captivated by the lively tradition.
Encouraged and supported by her family, Avril traveled an impressive 3,400 miles to attend the New Year’s Day event. Wrapped in a Welsh flag and seated in her wheelchair, she quickly endeared herself to the local community, who warmly welcomed her presence. The media affectionately dubbed her the “Welsh grandma,” and Avril reflected on the experience with delight: “I was like royalty I was, I couldn’t believe it – wonderful, wonderful. I thought ‘this is a dream, this isn’t happening to me’.”
The Mummers Parade, which began more than 120 years ago, remains a unique Philadelphia celebration that many might not recognize despite its long history. It features around 10,000 adults and children dressed in vibrant costumes parading for about ten hours down Broad Street. Originating in 1901 as groups aiming to cheer sick or homebound neighbors, the parade has grown into a grand spectacle often compared to Mardi Gras, with participants divided into five distinct divisions, each performing their own role in the procession.
Avril’s fascination with the parade started about two years earlier, shortly after Clifford’s death. Her granddaughter Fiona would frequently play YouTube videos of the event, which became a source of comfort for Avril during a difficult time. Avril explained how the parade helped her cope emotionally: “Mummers was a great help after losing my husband, more than any doctor or medicine.” Without her knowledge, her family worked quietly to arrange a surprise trip. When Avril was finally told she needed a photo for a passport to travel, the reality of the journey dawned on her: “I said ‘what, we’re going to America?’ and she said ‘yes and we’ve got to do it now’.”
Once in Philadelphia, Avril’s visit was filled with touching moments. She earned the affectionate online nickname “Grandma Mumm” and was greeted by numerous parade leaders, including her favorite string band captain, Jimmy Good, who even kissed her hand. Despite the cold weather, Avril was determined to stay until the end of the parade, bundled in blankets and hot water bottles. Her family and the event organizers went out of their way to make her feel special, providing VIP tours and thoughtful gifts such as a custom-made golden umbrella. The retired Mummer and parade host James “Jim” Donio played a significant role in ensuring Avril’s experience was unforgettable, often staying in contact with her and making her feel truly welcomed. Reflecting on the warmth she received, Avril said, “To think they took time to speak to me, a grandma from Wales. I thought ‘why are they making a fuss of me’.”
One of Avril’s favorite memories was seeing the parade performers up close, especially the string bands dressed in extravagant costumes decorated with ostrich feathers and funded through year-round efforts. She even joined in by wearing shoes sprayed to prepare for the festivities, sharing, “So my lovely granddaughter, Fiona, sprayed my shoes for me to go. So I wore them as well, to be a part of it all.” This remarkable adventure not only fulfilled Avril’s dream of visiting Philadelphia but also brought her joy and a renewed sense of connection through the community and tradition she had come to love
Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More
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