Do you want to know the most famous parade in the United States? The top spot belongs to New York City’s own Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. It’s a seasonal celebration that airs on televisions all across America as families prep for Thanksgiving with their loved ones. Before turkeys are taken out of ovens and football games begin, it’s a storied tradition to watch the beloved Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Whether you’re watching with a warm cup of coffee from the comfort of your own home or lining up on 6th Avenue and enduring the crisp early morning air, we have all the details on this iconic NYC event!
When is The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade This Year?
This year’s parade will be held on Thanksgiving Day, November 28th, 2024, from 8:30 am to 12:00 pm EST.
Where is the Parade Route?
The parade starts at West 77th Street & Central Park West. However, there is no public viewing until West 75th Street.
The parade will then make its way onto Central Park South through Columbus Circle and start making its way down 6th Avenue.
The best views are along 6th Avenue from West 59th Street to West 38th Street. *Please note: there is restricted viewing between West 38th Street and West 34th Street because of the National broadcast. It is not recommended to watch from this area.*
There are two and a half miles of viewing for the public to enjoy.
What is the Best Time to Arrive to Secure a Great Spot Along the Route?
Arrive early! People will start securing their spots around 6:00 am, and the streets will fill up quickly. By 7:00 am, the sidewalks will be rows deep.
A few things to keep in mind before the start of the parade:
- Dress warm and wear layers.
- Bring snacks and drinks.
- Once you have secured your spot, you won’t want to move, or someone else will take it.
- Wear comfortable and warm shoes.
- Use the facilities before arriving. There are no public restrooms along the route.
- 6th Avenue will be closed off, and you will not be able to cross the street until the conclusion of the parade.
What Can I Expect to See at This Year’s Parade?
The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade has a fantastic lineup every year, and 2024 is no exception. Parade-goers can expect to see 28 balloons, including some fun newcomers and beloved favorites, seven balloon-cicles, 34 floats, 28 clown crews, 11 performance groups, and 11 marching bands from all around the U.S.
Additionally, 28 scheduled performers will be making their way to 34th Street for appearances and performances, including:
- Jennifer Hudson
- Idina Menzel
- Charli D’Amelio
- Dasha
- Jimmy Fallon & The Roots
- T-Pain
How Do I Watch the Parade From Home?
The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade will be airing live on NBC and streaming live on Peacock. The Today Show’s Savannah Guthrie, Hoda Kotb, and Al Roker will host this year’s event. There will be an encore presentation on NBC at 2:00 pm EST.
Marked as the 98th annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, 2024 promises to be the biggest one yet. Whether you’re finding a front-row spot on 6th Avenue or watching with family and friends from home, the tradition this parade brings to Thanksgiving Day is unmatched. Start making plans today! And speaking of plans, the event planning experts at EMRG Media want to help you with all your upcoming milestones and corporate events. We specialize in private events, and with over 25 years of industry experience, you can trust that you’re in good hands. Contact us today!
