As the year ends and winter gets a grip in the Northern latitudes, many cultures mark the passing of another year and the coming of winter with annual religious and folk festivals and events. Here in Newfoundland, the remote and isolated coastal fishing villages long held on to traditions brought from England and Ireland. A mix of ancient Celtic, Pagan and Anglo-Saxon rituals merged with Christianity and the celebration of Christmas. One of those traditions, Mummering, has enjoyed a cultural revival in urban areas in recent years.
For the second year in a row I’ve been honoured to photograph the Mummer’s Parade in St. John’s, brilliantly organized by Ryan Davis and his merry band of volunteers.
You can find out more about The Mummers Festival at mummersfestival.ca and see more of my photos there. If you have a subscription to Facts & Opinions to can get an edited slide show mixed with audio and music from this years parade by the Armagh Rhymers, who visited from Ireland.
….enjoy your holidays and let the mummers in for a drink if they come knocking at your door on a dark wintery night.
