The iconic Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is ready to dazzle spectators and television audiences alike on Thursday, November 28, marking its 98th annual celebration.
Kicking off at 8:30 a.m. and running through midday, the parade will showcase a grand procession of floats, balloons, musical acts, Broadway performances, and, of course, Santa Claus to officially welcome the festive season.
A Star-Studded Entertainment Lineup
This year’s parade boasts an impressive entertainment lineup, featuring performances from popular artists and Broadway casts. Musical stars like Bishop Briggs, Jimmy Fallon & The Roots, Chlöe, T-Pain, Idina Menzel, and Sebastián Yatra will join the event, while dancers Charli D’Amelio and New York City Ballet principal dancers Tiler Peck and Roman Mejia will add a special flair. Acclaimed Broadway shows Death Becomes Her, Hell’s Kitchen, and The Outsiders will also take the stage, sharing the spotlight with New York’s iconic Radio City Rockettes.
Celebrities including Jonathan Bennett, Tom Kenny, and members of the New York Liberty WNBA team will make special appearances, alongside Macy’s campaign star Alison Brie, who will cut the ribbon and officially start the parade.
Iconic Balloons and New Debuts
Since 1927, Macy’s Thanksgiving Day balloons have been a main attraction, with characters floating down New York’s streets to delight fans of all ages. This year, six new character balloons will make their parade debut, including Minnie Mouse by Disney, Spider-Man by Marvel, and Goku from Dragon Ball. The Elf on the Shelf, Gabby from DreamWorks, and Marshall from Nickelodeon’s Paw Patrol will also join the lineup, created through months of meticulous work by Macy’s Studios.
Captivating Floats and New Designs
Macy’s artisans have crafted a series of floats that feature imaginative themes, thrilling animations, and lively performances. New floats debuting this year include Candy Cosmos by Haribo, Dora’s Fantastical Rainforest by Nickelodeon and Paramount, Magic Meets the Seas by Disney Cruise Line, Pasta Knight by Rao’s Homemade, and Wednesday’s Feast by Netflix. The Bronx Zoo’s Wondrous World of Wildlife float, as well as a specialty Go Bowling! unit, will add even more variety to the celebration.
Returning fan-favourite floats will join the lineup, including Santa’s Sleigh and Universal’s Merry Moment by Universal Orlando Resort. This year, parade vehicles will be towed by Ram Trucks, the official truck of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, ensuring smooth transitions down the 2.5-mile route from 77th Street to Macy’s Herald Square flagship store.
A Tribute to Excellence in Marching Bands and Performance Groups
Celebrating music education and talent, this year’s parade will feature marching bands from across the United States. Notable appearances include University of Massachusetts Minuteman Marching Band, East Tennessee State University Marching Buccaneers, The Lake Hamilton High School Marching Band, and “the Pride of West Virginia” – The Mountaineer Marching Band. New York’s NYPD Marching Band will also join, representing the host city.
Dance and performance groups will keep crowds engaged, with appearances from Circus Vazquez, Riverdance, Indigenous Enterprise, Kilgore College Rangerettes, and MOVE NYC. The Spirit of America Dance and Cheer groups will energize the parade with their choreographed routines, joined by over 700 cheerleaders and dancers.
Parade Viewing and Accessibility
For those unable to view the parade in person, NBC will broadcast it live, with an encore airing at 2:00 p.m. ET/PT. Streaming will also be available on Peacock, offering broad access to the parade’s exciting lineup. Telemundo will provide a Spanish-language simulcast, hosted by Carlos Adyan and Andrea Meza, while NBCUniversal will offer an audio description on the Secondary Audio Program channel, enriching the viewing experience for blind and visually impaired audiences.
Public Safety and Viewing Guidelines
The NYPD will manage public viewing areas along designated sections of the 2.5-mile parade route. Spectators are advised to avoid large bags, backpacks, umbrellas, and strollers and may undergo a security search when entering the viewing area. Those planning to attend are encouraged to secure spots early to get the best vantage points for this once-a-year event.
Exclusive Parade Memorabilia
Macy’s is celebrating the parade’s legacy with exclusive 2024 merchandise, including a collectible snow globe, ornaments, character plush toys, pins, and themed apparel. Fans can find these items at select Macy’s stores and online at macys.com.
The Joy and Tradition of Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
Will Coss, Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade executive producer, notes that the event represents “the joy and magic of the season” for millions of spectators and viewers. Macy’s dedicated team of artisans, performers, and volunteers work year-round to bring this grand production to life, making it one of the most anticipated holiday traditions in the United States.
As the 98th parade draws near, the 2024 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade promises to be a heartwarming spectacle filled with creativity, cherished traditions, and holiday cheer, bringing families together to mark the official beginning of the festive season.