Mummer's Parade

Photo: R. Kennedy, Greater Philadelphia TMC] Marchers in the famed Mummers Parade begin work on next year’s costumes and plans the day after finishing this year’s parade.

Of course, holiday tradition has never been stodgy, or even predictable, in Philadelphia, where a rich infusion of cultures has evolved into the Mummer's Parade.

Turin, Italy
In Turin, tradition isn't tamper-resistant. In fact, the city's free-wheeling display of lights by artists captures the brilliance and fun of Christmas -- with nary a Rudolph in sight.