Before America gets turnt on turkey and settles in to watch some football, all eyes turn to Manhattan during the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. The annual pageant of giant balloons, floats, cheerleaders, clowns, marching bands, Broadway performances and celebs is one of the best NYC events in November.
Last year’s parade was the first time it started at 8:30am, but it was worth the earlier time because we got to see so many cool performances, including from Jon Batiste!
RECOMMENDED: Full guide to Thanksgiving in NYC
When is the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade?
Thanksgiving Day, of course! But we’ll spell it out for you: Thursday, November 24.
Where is the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade?
The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade takes over Manhattan on the holiday. It starts at 77th St and Central Park West and heads down to 34th Street to Macy's Herald Square. Here's the full route.
What time does the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade start?
It will being at 8:30am in the morning.
What’s the route of the parade?
There are 2.5 miles of public viewing. (Here's the full route). It kicks off at West 77th Street & Central Park West and flows down Central Park West before winding around Columbus Circle and onto Central Park South and Sixth Avenue. Finally, it files down Sixth Avenue to Macy’s Herald Square.
How to watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade:
Tune into NBC live from 8:30am to noon or stream it live on Peacock. Otherwise, get to the parade route very early to stake out your spot.
Who is performing during the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade?
Expect Broadway performances, live pop performances, 12 marching bands, 700 clowns, nine performance groups and more.
Performers have not yet been announced for 2024.
What are some of the new balloons joining the parade?
See about 16 character balloons, 26 floats, and 32 heritage/novelty balloons.
If you want to get an early look at the balloons, check out the balloon inflation event on Wednesday, November 23, on the Upper West Side.
