1940s, Uncle Sam
The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is no doubt the highlight of Thanksgiving in NYC, kicking off the holiday season. It’s up there with the best New York attractions and one of the best things to do in New York in the fall. Before chowing down on turkey and sides, who doesn’t love tuning in to watch the fabulous floats, singing celebs, skilled dancers, top-notch marching bands and of course the iconic Macy’s parade balloons? Lucky New Yorkers can see the parade in person, but the rest of us can stay cozy and warm on the couch and check out the parade on TV in our pjs.
The balloons in the Macy’s parade have evolved over the years, but they always feature beloved cartoon characters both old and new. This year’s parade will feature five new balloons alongside the classics.
Whether you’re seeing the parade in person or watching from the comfort of your home, here are the Macy’s parade balloons to look out for, plus some photos from past parades to conjure up those Thanksgiving feels.
RECOMMENDED: Full guide to Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade
Which Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade balloons will I see this year?
In this year’s parade, you’ll see giant floating versions of your favorite characters.
Balloons this year include five new scene-stealers: Buzz Lightyear, PAC-MAN, Mario, Derpy Tiger and Shrek’s Onion Carriage. They'll join with classics like Smokey Bear, the Pillsbury Doughboy, Pikachu, Snoopy and Minnie Mouse.
There are also four "balloonicles," hybrid balloon-vehicles that roll along the route, featuring Cheese of A Wimpy Kid, Frost Pips, Happy Hippo Triple Stack and Sussie & Flowerpot.
Other visual treats include 33 clown crews and 11 marching bands.
Can I watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade balloons be inflated?
Typically, yes, though information hasn't been announced yet. Watching Macy’s Parade balloons come to life in person is quite a spectacle. The public is generally invited to watch the balloon inflation on Thanksgiving Eve on the Upper West Side from 1-6pm. It's free and open to the public—just be prepared for a long line.
The ginormous balloons are usually inflated around the American Museum of Natural History (77th and 81st Streets, between Central Park West and Columbus Avenue).
What floats will the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade have this year?
New floats roll out from Holland America Line, LEGO, Lindt, Netflix’s Stranger Things, Pop Mart and Serta. Kool & the Gang will bring a burst of nostalgia with “Celebration” atop the Bronx Zoo’s Wondrous World of Wildlife float. You'll see 29 dazzling floats in total.
