1. Latinos, finally

At first, the idea that the masqueraders of San Mateo Carnavalero should join the longstanding Mummers Parade had been nothing more than AL DÍA’s suggestion. The “Carnavaleros” have a long history in South Philadelphia’s Mexican community, but until recently they never connected with the city’s other carnival traditions. (Check out Ana Gamboa’s story on the group for more context.)

But that’s all about to change. The Carnavaleros will open the Mummers Parade this Friday alongside some other new faces.

Strutting with them is another Latino troupe that describes itself as a “a Puerto Rican Bomba and Plena music group with a twist of reggaeton flow,” based out of North Philadelphia. (We’ll have a story on them for you shortly.)

2. A brand new division

The 2016 Mummers Parade will features six divisions — each with its own artistry, sound and customs. Los Carnavaleros and Los Bomberos will be part of the newly established “Philadelphia Division” kicking off the show.

Also part of this new ensemble will be the West Philly’s Second 2 None drill team, and the "Miss Fancy" Brigade, an LGBT group of drag queens participating in their fourth Mummers parade this year. Why this new division, you might ask?

3. Diversity...and blackface

Last year’s parade sparked a fiery debate about diversity. The Philadelphia Division represents a sign of progress for the 115 year-old New Year’s Day tradition, which many have long criticized for not reflecting the city’s population.

But there’s still a vocal contingent that seems committed to defending the parade’s less savory elements — for example, anti-immigrant speech and wearing blackface — on the grounds that that it’s all part of said “tradition.” We’ll be covering the parade live this year to see who turns out.

4. Heightened security

Center City won’t turn into quite the fenced-in police state it was during Pope Francis’ visit in September. But you can expect more security than in years past.

There will be steel barricades keeping viewers confined to the sidewalks between City Hall and Washington Avenue. Moreover, the Daily News reports that any vehicle used in the parade needs to be screened in advance. Homeland Security will need the “driver’s name and date of birth, make/model of vehicle, license plate number and cell phone for driver.”

Also, a friendly reminder from Parade Director Leo Dignam: “Tell your kids not to pet the police dogs, they will be working.”

5. Jim Kenney?

It’s no secret that Philly’s new mayor is a former strutter for the Jokers fancy brigade. On New Year’s Day in 1992, the just-elected Councilman Kenney famously dressed up as a Mexican bandit at City Hall. It wasn’t his proudest moment, but he has a longstanding love for the parade and its continued progress. Kenney won’t be taking up the suit this year, but it looks like he’ll be there to watch the performances, time permitting.