The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is one of the most well-known and beloved New York City celebrations, and you won’t want to miss out on the fun! Whether it’s a once-in-a-lifetime trip or an annual tradition for you and your family, it’s an unforgettable experience to kick off the holiday season. You’ll see the famous giant balloons, marching bands, floats, Broadway performers, and even celebrity sightings. Grab your favorite spot on the parade route and prepare to be amazed!
The History of The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
This historic parade started in 1924 as a celebration of the Macy’s flagship store opening. It was much smaller back then and mostly consisted of zoo animals. The parade was (and still is) staged by Macy’s employees. In 1927, the first balloon was introduced, and it was Felix the Cat. Since then, the larger-than-life balloons have been the most recognizable part of the parade. The only time the parade was canceled was during WWII because of a helium and rubber shortage. Balloons were donated to the government to help in the war effort. In 1945, the parade had its first televised broadcast and has been brought into people’s homes every year since. The parade is always closed by an appearance by Santa Claus, a tradition that started its very first year.
The parade has evolved some over the years, but its identity has always stayed the same. They just aim to be bigger and better than the year before!
Your Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade Guide
Thanksgiving Day falls on Thursday, November 23rd, this year, and the parade kicks off at 9:00 and goes until noon. It starts at West 77th Street and Central Park. It then goes from West 75th Street to West 61st Street. Once past Central Park South, the route heads down 6th Ave to Macy’s Herald Square. For the full 2.5-mile route map, click HERE.
The best views are near Central Park between West 72nd Street and West 61st Street, OR anywhere going down 6th Ave between 59th Street and 38th Street.
Get your spot early and dress warm! It’s recommended to get there by at least 6:00 a.m. for the best viewing.
For a list of this year’s impressive lineup, click HERE.
You can also watch the live broadcast on NBC or Peacock.
If you’re looking for something to do this fall and want to experience one of the most iconic events in NYC, consider the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Its energy and fun are unmatched. Get into the spirit of the holidays with this joyous event! And speaking of NYC events, trust EMRG Media with all your event planning efforts!
