Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade Set to Dazzle New Yorkers This Year

NEW YORK – The 99th annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade is ready to dazzle millions on Thursday, November 27, starting at 8:30 a.m. ET. This beloved event will once again fill the streets of Manhattan with colorful floats, giant balloons, and lively performances.

The parade will last approximately three and a half hours, covering a 2.5-mile route from West 77th Street and Central Park West to Macy’s Herald Square on 34th Street. Spectators are encouraged to arrive early, with optimal viewing spots along Central Park West and other key areas.

This year’s participants include 34 balloons, 28 floats, and performances from a star-studded lineup featuring Cynthia Erivo, Busta Rhymes, Ciara, and more. The festivities will culminate with a performance from the Radio City Rockettes and the arrival of Santa Claus, marking the official start of the holiday season.

For those unable to attend in person, the parade will be broadcast live on NBC and streamed on Peacock at 8:30 a.m. across all U.S. time zones. An encore will air later in the day, with a Spanish-language simulcast available on Telemundo.

New this year are balloons featuring Buzz Lightyear and Pac-Man, while new floats include themes inspired by “Stranger Things” and “KPop Demon Hunters.” The parade, known for its grand spectacle, invites viewers to enjoy an eclectic mix of entertainment.

To accommodate the event, several street closures will be in effect beginning the day before Thanksgiving. Central Park West will be closed to traffic from West 72nd Street to West 86th Street from early Wednesday through Thursday afternoon. The NYPD has advised that large backpacks and coolers will not be allowed on the parade route.

This anticipated holiday tradition continues to draw crowds year after year, offering a festive glimpse into the holiday spirit.