This Thanksgiving Day, kickstart the celebrations with the annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City. The parade, famously recognized for its massive balloons and vibrant floats, begins on Manhattan’s Upper West Side and concludes at Macy’s flagship store in Herald Square.
Originally initiated in 1924, the parade has a long tradition, although it did not occur in 1942, 1943, and 1944 due to World War II, when materials were repurposed for the war effort, according to Macy’s. This year, the parade lineup is expected to feature an impressive array of 22 floats, 17 character balloons, 15 heritage or novelty balloons, and over 700 clowns. Viewers can also look forward to performances from several musical stars, 11 marching bands, and 10 performance groups, including choreographed segments for notable characters like Tom Turkey and Santa Claus.
Macy’s assures that this year’s parade lineup promises a diverse experience for everyone attending the iconic Thanksgiving Day celebration.
For those planning to watch the event, the 2024 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade will kick off at 8:30 a.m. ET on November 28 and can be viewed on NBC as well as streamed on Peacock and Fubo. Savannah Guthrie, Hoda Kotb, and Al Roker are set to host the telecast, which will offer a live audio description for visually impaired viewers.
This year is particularly exciting as six new balloons will be introduced, featuring beloved characters like Minnie Mouse, Goku from Dragon Ball, and Spider-Man. The parade will also showcase six brand new floats, including “Dora’s Fantastical Rainforest” and the “Wondrous World of Wildlife,” in celebration of the Bronx Zoo’s 125th anniversary.
Additionally, a unique scented float by Balsam Hill and NEST will be a sensory highlight of the event.
Performing stars such as Jennifer Hudson, Kylie Minogue, and Idina Menzel are just a few of the talented artists gracing the stage this year, promising to elevate the festive atmosphere even further.
Overall, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade captivates audiences with its festive spirit and provides a wonderful way to ring in the holiday season with family and friends.
This year’s event certainly carries on the long-standing tradition of joy and celebration, bringing together people from across the nation for a memorable Thanksgiving experience.