One of the most famous and highly anticipated parades in the world is the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. It celebrates the season of gratitude and our nation’s humble beginnings, with parade participants from all around the globe showcasing brilliant floats, incredible performances, and stunning balloon character displays. This year mark’s its 96th annual celebration, and the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is marching on November 24th.
The Official Parade Details
The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade begins at 9:00 AM EST, starting on West 77th Street and Central Park West. The procession takes roughly three full hours to complete. And it ends at Macy’s flagship location at Herald Square.
The celebratory route leads from Uptown Manhattan to Midtown Manhattan, traveling towards Columbus Circle from its starting point. From there, the procession heads straight down 6th Avenue. It’s a three-mile stretch from start to finish. And you can find area maps online to find and secure your best spot for visibility.
This Year’s Parade Performances
Much like Thanksgiving Day Parades in the past, this year’s lineup of entertainment will feature elaborate floats, hilarious clowns, athletic cheerleaders, and countless marching bands from schools all over the country.
Official celebrity announcements are expected in the coming weeks, too. And every year, fans line the streets of New York to get a free, front-row seat to watch their favorite singers, dancers, and artists. Just a few of the stars who’ve been a part of the Parade in years past include Kelly Rowland, the Black Eyed Peas, TLC, Ciara, Chris Young, and more!
Where to Watch
If you’re not interested in venturing out for an in-person seat for this year’s Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, you can always watch it at home with friends and family. NBC broadcasts the Parade live every year. And it’s a great family tradition to incorporate into your Thanksgiving Day plans.
In general parade-going veterans will suggest the best place to watch the procession is towards the start of the route, between 60th and 68th Streets. Visitors can expect the most spectator congestion between 34th and 38th Streets (broadcasters set up here) and towards Herald Square at the Parade’s finale. Avoid Columbus Circle, as well, since there’s limited to no public viewing in this area. Some of the best nooks and places to find great visibility and more convenient logistics are along Central Park West, Central Park South, and 6th Avenue.
Get ready for this year’s Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade! It’s going to be another incredible procession and holiday celebration for the season of giving thanks. And it also kicks off the holiday season, marking a beloved tradition for all New Yorkers, residents and guests included.
Stay in tune with all the upcoming holiday events and more right here. And let EMRG Media help you with all your upcoming event planning endeavors!
