Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade

Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, held annually on the fourth Thursday in November, is a grand spectacle in New York City that ushers in the holiday season with towering balloons, vibrant floats, marching bands, and cheering crowds. It begins early in the morning and winds along Manhattan streets before culminating outside Macy’s flagship store — a visual celebration that has become a beloved tradition for millions.

History of Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade

The parade began in 1924, when the Macy’s department store organized a procession of its employees, live animals from the Central Park Zoo and colorful costumes from Harlem to its Herald Square store. The event was originally called “Macy’s Christmas Parade” and aimed at boosting the holiday shopping season.
Over the years the parade evolved: balloons replaced live zoo animals in the late 1920s; crowds grew to hundreds of thousands; the event expanded its route; and television coverage began in the 1930s and 1940s. The parade was suspended during World War II (1942-44) due to helium and rubber being diverted to the war effort.

Why is Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade important?

The parade is important because it stands as a symbol of the holiday season, combining joy, spectacle, and community gathering into a shared cultural moment. It draws visitors from around the world, millions of television viewers, and serves as a major boost to tourism and New York’s holiday economy.
It also reflects changing technology and entertainment over nearly a century — from live animals to inflatable balloons, from local radio broadcasts to live televised events with millions watching. It captures a slice of American culture, holiday traditions and pageantry in a way that resonates across generations.

• It introduces giant character balloons loved by children and adults alike.
• It showcases marching bands, dance troupes, and performance groups from across the country.
• It offers a televised event that many families watch as part of their Thanksgiving morning ritual.
• It draws attention to the festive transformation of New York City during the holiday season.
• It brings together commerce, entertainment, and tradition in a public demonstration of holiday spirit.

How to Participate in Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade

If you plan to attend in person or watch from home, it’s helpful to arrive early if you’re in New York City — the route gets crowded, and being along Sixth Avenue or near Herald Square will give you a good view of the floats and balloons. If you’re watching on TV, looking up the broadcast time and planning your morning with the family can make it part of your holiday tradition.
When participating, consider bringing warm layers (November mornings in NYC can be chilly), a thermos with something warm, and perhaps snacks if you’re lining up. For TV watchers, you might choose to identify your favorite balloons or bands, or talk about the history of certain floats or characters with children.

• Arrive at your chosen vantage point early, ahead of the parade start.
• Dress in layers and bring weather-appropriate gear (hat, gloves, waterproof jacket).
• Bring a camera or smartphone to capture balloons and floats, but be patient with crowds.
• If watching at home, tune in right when the parade begins to catch the full experience.
• Use the parade as an opportunity to talk about the traditions of Thanksgiving, family togetherness, and the start of the holiday season.

Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade Dates Table