Thanksgiving Day begins with the beloved Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, an annual tradition in New York City. The parade kicks off at Manhattan’s Upper West Side and concludes at Macy’s flagship store in Herald Square.
Although the parade has a history dating back nearly a century to 1924, it won’t be celebrating its centenary this year due to interruptions during World War II when it was not held in 1942, 1943, and 1944 because resources were repurposed for the war effort.
For the 2024 parade, attendees can look forward to an exciting lineup featuring 22 floats, 17 character balloons, 15 heritage and novelty balloons, and over 700 clowns. NBC, the event’s broadcaster, announces that performances will include several music stars, 11 marching bands, and 10 performance groups. The parade’s dance performances for iconic characters like Tom Turkey and Santa Claus are choreographed by the talented Shay Latukolan.
The 2024 Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade is set to start at 8:30 a.m. ET on Thursday, November 28, running for 3.5 hours, regardless of weather conditions. Viewers can watch the parade on NBC, with a simulcast available on Peacock and Fubo. The telecast will be hosted by Savannah Guthrie, Hoda Kotb, and Al Roker. Notably, for viewers with visual impairments, a live audio description of the parade will be provided.
This year will see the debut of six new balloons, including Minnie Mouse, Goku from Dragon Ball, and Spider-Man. Additionally, six new floats are set to join the parade, showcasing themes from well-known franchises and brands.
Celebrity performances will add to the excitement, featuring a diverse array of artists such as Jennifer Hudson, Kylie Minogue, and Idina Menzel. This celebration offers a perfect opportunity for families and friends to gather and take part in the holiday spirit together.
Overall, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade stands as a cherished event, uniting people and celebrating joy and gratitude during one of the year’s most festive holidays.
Let this year’s edition remind us of the importance of community and the spirit of Thanksgiving as we gather to enjoy this beloved tradition.