The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is an iconic American tradition, captivating millions annually and officially kicking off the holiday season. The event began not in celebration of Thanksgiving, but as a way to mark the start of the Christmas shopping season for Macy’s flagship store in New York City. The first parade was held in 1924, though it was originally called the Macy’s Christmas Parade. That inaugural march featured live animals from the Central Park Zoo instead of the now-famous balloons. It wasn’t until 1927 that the enormous, buoyant character balloons—starting with Felix the Cat —made their debut, immediately becoming the defining feature of the spectacle and capturing the imaginations of children and adults alike. Since then, the parade has survived wars, economic downturns, and even two balloon-less years due to rubber shortages, solidifying its place as a beloved piece of national culture.
Today, the parade is a massive undertaking, featuring elaborate floats, high-stepping marching bands, celebrity performances, and over two dozen enormous helium balloons that travel a route through Manhattan. For those wanting to experience the spectacle in person, the best viewing spots are generally along the western side of Central Park or along the final stretch on 6th Avenue, but you’ll need to arrive very early to secure a good spot. For the vast majority of Americans, the easiest and warmest way to watch is from home. The parade is broadcast live nationwide on NBC starting at 9 a.m. in all time zones, making it a reliable fixture of Thanksgiving morning entertainment before the feast begins.
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