The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade is scheduled for Thursday, November 27, marking its 99th annual occurrence. The event will feature floats, balloons, and live performances in Manhattan, New York City, and will be broadcast nationally.
This year's parade involves over 5,000 volunteers, 34 balloons, 28 floats, and 11 marching bands. Musical performances by artists such as Cynthia Erivo and Darlene Love are scheduled.
Historical Context
Originating in 1924 as the Macy's Christmas Parade, early events included live animals from the Central Park Zoo. Live animals were discontinued in 1927 due to safety concerns and replaced with oversized balloons. This year's balloon lineup includes oversized Macy's stars, Minnie Mouse, and Spider-Man.
NBCUniversal Entertainment stated the parade is an event that "brings families together" and "remains a beloved tradition for millions."
Event Details
- Date and Time: Thursday, November 27, commencing at 8:30 a.m. in all U.S. time zones.
- Opening Act: Cynthia Erivo will initiate the festivities.
- Route: The parade begins on West 77th Street and Central Park West in New York City, traversing 2.5 miles to Macy's Herald Square.
- Live Viewing: Spectators in New York can observe the parade from West 59th to West 38th streets. Early arrival, typically around 6 a.m., is suggested for optimal viewing positions. An interactive map provides details on recommended viewing points.
Broadcast Information
- Live Broadcast: NBC and Peacock will stream the parade live on Thursday morning.
- Encore Presentation: An encore broadcast will air on NBC at 2 p.m. ET/PT.
- Spanish-Language Simulcast: Telemundo will offer a Spanish-language simulcast beginning at 8:30 a.m., hosted by Andrea Meza, Aleyda Ortiz, and Clovis Nienow.
- Accessibility: A full NBC broadcast with SAP (Secondary Audio Program) will be accessible for blind and visually impaired viewers.
- Related Event: The National Dog Show will air on NBC at 12 p.m., following the parade.
Hosts and Performers
Hoda Kotb will co-host the parade for the eighth time, alongside Savannah Guthrie and Al Roker.
Performances will take place in front of Macy's. Confirmed performers include EJAE, Audrey Nuna, REI AMI, Darlene Love, Ciara, Colbie Caillat, Lil Jon, and Busta Rhymes. Broadway productions such as Buena Vista Social Club, Just in Time, and Ragtime are scheduled to perform. The Rockettes will also present a performance to mark their 100th anniversary.
Santa Claus and his sleigh will conclude the parade.
Balloons
Ahead of the parade's 100th anniversary in 2026, Macy's Studios will reintroduce historical balloon elements this year, including Rainbow and Greybow Trouts, the Happy Hippo, and Freida the Dachshund.
New additions to the lineup of 32 balloons include Buzz Lightyear, PAC-MAN, Shrek's Onion Carriage, and Mario. Returning balloons include Snoopy, SpongeBob SquarePants, the Pillsbury Doughboy, and Bluey.
Pre-Parade Special
NBC and Peacock will air "Countdown to the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade" at 8 p.m. on Wednesday, November 26. This special will provide a behind-the-scenes look at the floats, balloons, and bands prior to the main event.