The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade Makes Its Annual November March

There are few things more New York than watching a giant Snoopy float past a crowd of people who woke up before sunrise to claim a spot on the sidewalk. The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is a holiday tradition for a reason, and 2026 marks its 100th parade! Expect giant balloons, elaborate floats, marching bands, Broadway performances, and a few surprises worthy of a centennial celebration. Here’s what to know before the big day.

When Is the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade?

The 100th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade takes place on Thursday, November 26th, 2026. The parade starts at 8:30 AM and airs on NBC, Peacock, and Telemundo.

The first parade took place in 1924, so this milestone celebrates a century of giant characters, elaborate floats, and Thanksgiving morning excitement. The event has grown quite a bit since its early days, but the basic idea still works: give New York a parade and let the holiday magic happen. 

Where Can You Watch the Parade in Person?

The parade begins near West 77th Street and Central Park West, then heads south toward Columbus Circle before continuing along Sixth Avenue and turning west on 34th Street toward Macy’s Herald Square.

There’s no charge to watch the parade in person, but getting a good spot takes some planning. Crowds gather early, and the best sidewalk views can fill up hours ahead of time. Wear a warm coat, pack a few snacks, and get comfortable on your feet. It’s a long morning, but those giant balloons are worth seeing.

Are the Balloons Really That Big?

Yes, and seeing them in person is a completely different experience from watching them on television. These giant characters tower over the crowd, and their scale can be hard to appreciate until they’re right above you. Add the handlers who guide each balloon through the streets, the marching bands, and the elaborate floats, and you have a spectacle that feels unmistakably New York.

For the 100th parade, Macy’s has announced 100 inflatable elements, plus a lineup of familiar favorites and new creations. That’s a lot of helium and a very good reason to keep your eyes on the sky. 

What’s New for the 100th Parade?

A few familiar faces are getting the spotlight this year. Disney’s Sorcerer’s Apprentice Mickey will make his parade debut, and Underdog returns after his last flight in 1984. The lineup also includes characters such as Bluey, Buzz Lightyear, Mario, and SpongeBob SquarePants.

The centennial also honors Tony Sarg, the artist and puppeteer who helped bring the parade’s giant balloons to life. His creativity helped shape one of New York’s best known holiday traditions, now a familiar sight for generations of parade fans.

Can You See the Balloons Before Thanksgiving?

You may be able to get a closer look at the giant characters before parade day at Macy’s annual balloon inflation event. It’s a chance to see the balloons up close before they take to the sky, and the scale is a sight in itself. Macy’s has not yet confirmed the public details for the 2026 event, so check the official parade website for the latest information before you make plans.

Is the Parade Worth Seeing in Person?

Absolutely. The crowds and early alarm might not sound like everyone’s idea of a relaxing Thanksgiving, but the parade has a kind of energy that’s hard to replicate. You get the anticipation when a balloon first appears, the crowd’s cheers, and the chance to watch a New York tradition unfold right in front of you. If you’re in town for Thanksgiving, it’s a memorable way to kick off the holiday season.

Your next great industry connection could be waiting at The Event Planner Expo. Reserve your booth today!

The post The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade Makes Its Annual November March appeared first on The Event Planner Expo.