As Thanksgiving approaches, many Americans eagerly anticipate the beloved tradition of watching the annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. This cherished event dates back to 1924, although it does not mark its 100th anniversary yet, due to its cancellation during World War II when resources were redirected to support the war efforts.
Scheduled for November 28, the 2024 parade will begin at 8:30 a.m. and continue until noon, showcasing an impressive lineup that includes 22 floats, 17 character balloons, 15 heritage or novelty balloons, and over 700 clowns, as detailed by NBC. Spectators can also look forward to musical performances from various artists, alongside 11 marching bands and 10 performance groups. Notably, renowned choreographer Shay Latukolan will oversee the dance performances for Tom Turkey, Santa Claus, and three featured floats.
For those planning to watch the parade, it will be broadcast live on NBC from 8:30 a.m. to noon across all time zones. It will also be available for live streaming on Peacock and FuboTV, with a subsequent encore airing at 2 p.m. ET/PT. NBC’s “Today” show hosts Savannah Guthrie, Hoda Kotb, and Al Roker will be returning to guide viewers through the festivities.
In an effort to enhance accessibility, NBC will provide live audio descriptions of the parade for visually impaired viewers through the Secondary Audio Program (SAP) channel, ensuring that everyone can enjoy this annual spectacle.
Excitement surrounds this year’s event as it introduces six new balloons, including fan favorites like Minnie Mouse, Goku from Dragon Ball, and Spider-Man. Additionally, six new floats will make their debut, featuring themes from popular franchises such as Nick’s Dora and Disney Cruise Line.
As the parade draws near, it promises to bring joy and festive spirit to families gathered across the nation. This event continues to serve as a reminder of the joy of community, family, and tradition, reinforcing the essence of Thanksgiving.
In summary, the 2024 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade promises to be a vibrant and inclusive celebration filled with new characters, engaging performances, and the cherished nostalgia that comes with this time-honored tradition, encouraging viewers to embrace the spirit of gratitude and joy.