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It is one of the most unique Christmas traditions in Canada, and in Newfoundland it dates back at least 200 to 300 years. This is the story of mummering! Mummering originated in England and Ireland, and eventually found its way to Newfoundland and Labrador. Also known as janneying or mumming, it involves a group of friends dressing in disguise and visiting homes during the twelve days of Christmas. As they knock on the door, the mummers ask "Any mummers 'lowed in?" If the mummers are welcomed into the home, they will do informal performances. These can include music, jokes, dance and more. The hosts in the home then must determine the identity of the mummers. The mummers will try to fool the hosts by stuffing their costumes, speaking while inhaling, wearing masks and more. Once the identities of the mummers are confirmed, they are offered food and drink. The idea is that with the lifting of the mask of the mummer, the stranger becomes a friend. In in the past, the mummers carried codfish bladders blown up like balloons. These are filled with pebbles so they rattle. These instruments are called swabs. It is now more common for these "ugly sticks" to be broomsticks with bottle caps nailed on. A rubber boot is also attached at the bottom to create a head, with tin cans and a mop for hair. In 2009, the Heritage Foundation of Newfoundland and Labrador's Intangible Cultural Heritage Office established the Mummers Festival. This is held in St. John's and includes a Mummers Parade. In 2011, Mummering was designated as a Distinctive Cultural Tradition and Practice by the Newfoundland and Labrador government. If you enjoy my Canadian history content, you can support my work with a donation at https://t.co/u12Dmz8vKv