When Is the Thanksgiving Day Parade?

There’s something magical about Thanksgiving morning, isn’t there? The air feels crisp, kitchens are filled with the scent of pies and stuffing in progress, and TVs across the country are tuned to the same channel. For many, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is more than just a tradition—it’s the moment the holiday season officially begins. Whether you’re watching the floats glide down Manhattan’s streets or catching glimpses of your favorite celebrities from the warmth of your living room, this iconic event has a way of bringing everyone together.

But what exactly makes this parade so special, and what can you expect from this year’s festivities? From jaw-dropping balloons to star-studded performances, let’s explore everything that makes the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade an unmissable holiday staple.

When Is the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade?

Mark your calendars: the 98th annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade takes place on Thursday, November 28, 2024. The parade kicks off bright and early at 8:30 a.m. (Eastern Time) and will continue until noon, with coverage airing live on NBC and streaming on Peacock. For those who love a good encore, NBC will also broadcast a replay at 2 p.m.

If you’re planning to watch from the streets of Manhattan, the parade begins on the Upper West Side at 77th Street and Central Park West. It winds its way down to Macy’s flagship store at Herald Square, making it a perfect excuse to bundle up and enjoy the city’s festive atmosphere.

What to Expect This Year

Every year, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade brings a fresh lineup of balloons, floats, and performances to dazzle audiences. This year promises to be no different, with a mix of returning favorites and exciting new additions that will leave you in awe.

The Balloons

The larger-than-life character balloons are always the parade’s biggest draw. This year’s lineup features classics like Snoopy and Pikachu, alongside new additions such as Marshall from PAW Patrol, Goku from Dragon Ball, and Gabby from Gabby’s Dollhouse. If you’ve ever wondered how these towering balloons make their way through Manhattan’s streets, it’s thanks to a team of over 5,000 volunteers who guide them along the parade route.

The Floats

The floats are equally mesmerizing, offering intricate designs that bring stories to life. Six brand-new floats will make their debut this year, including:

• Candy Cosmos by Haribo
• Dora’s Fantastical Rainforest by Nickelodeon & Paramount
• Magic Meets the Seas by Disney Cruise Line
• Pasta Knight by Rao’s Homemade
• Masterfeast by Netflix
• Wondrous World of Wildlife by Bronx Zoo

These floats are more than just eye candy—they’re a testament to creativity and craftsmanship, each telling its own unique story as it glides down the parade route.

Star-Studded Performances

The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade has become a stage for some of the biggest names in music and entertainment, and this year’s lineup is no exception. Expect show-stopping performances from Jennifer Hudson, Kylie Minogue, Billy Porter, and many more. Broadway fans are in for a treat, too, with live numbers from musicals like Death Becomes Her and Hell’s Kitchen, plus the legendary Radio City Rockettes.

And if you love a good celebrity sighting, keep your eyes peeled for appearances by Alison Brie, Idina Menzel, and even the WNBA champions New York Liberty.

Watching from Home vs. Experiencing It Live

Watching the parade from home has its perks—there’s nothing like cozying up with a mug of coffee and seeing the parade unfold on screen. But if you’re lucky enough to be in New York City, catching the parade live is a whole different experience.

Spectators line up as early as 6 a.m. to claim their spots along the route, with Central Park West and Sixth Avenue being prime viewing areas. It’s a commitment, but there’s something unforgettable about seeing the balloons, floats, and performers up close, surrounded by the buzz of the crowd.

If standing outside in the cold isn’t your thing, consider grabbing a reservation at a restaurant along the route. Many offer window seats where you can enjoy the parade while staying warm and well-fed.

The Tradition Behind the Parade

The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade dates back to 1924, making it one of the longest-running holiday traditions in the U.S. What started as a modest event with live animals and local bands has grown into a spectacle watched by millions around the world.

But the heart of the parade remains the same: it’s a celebration of joy, community, and the start of the holiday season. It’s one of those rare moments where people pause their busy lives to simply enjoy the magic of the moment—whether that’s marveling at the artistry of a float or singing along to a favorite performer’s set.

Tips for First-Timers

If this is your first time tuning in—or better yet, attending the parade in person—there are a few things to keep in mind.

Dress for the weather: Layers are your best friend if you’re braving the New York cold.

Plan ahead: Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot, or scope out restaurants with parade views well in advance.

Know the route: Familiarize yourself with the parade’s path to avoid any last-minute confusion.

And most importantly, soak it all in. Whether you’re watching from a screen or the streets, the parade is a reminder of what makes the holidays special—coming together, even for just a moment, to celebrate something bigger than ourselves.