Get ready for an unforgettable Thanksgiving morning with the 2025 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade! This iconic New York City tradition promises to deliver excitement, entertainment, and holiday cheer for viewers across the United States. Executive Producer Will Coss describes the parade as the official kickoff to the holiday season, continuing its legacy of creating lasting memories for generations.
This year’s Macy’s parade lineup is packed with incredible surprises. Beloved characters like Buzz Lightyear from Toy Story and a special PAC-MAN balloon celebrating its 45th anniversary will roll down the streets of Manhattan. Two exciting new mid-sized balloons featuring characters from Netflix’s “KPop Demon Hunters” will make their debut, adding fresh energy to the parade’s classic charm.
Fans can look forward to special appearances by actors Nikki DeLoach and Kristoffer Polaha, figure skater Ilia Malinin, and U.S. Paralympian Jack Wallace. The parade’s special correspondent, Sean Evans from “Hot Ones,” will bring his unique enthusiasm to the event, making the Thanksgiving parade New York’s most anticipated morning spectacle.
Classic balloons are making a triumphant return, including the Rainbow and Greybow Trouts, Happy Hippo Triple Stack, Wigglefoot, and Freida the Dachshund. With six new floats joining the procession, this year’s Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade promises to be a celebration you won’t want to miss!
Star-Studded Performances and Broadway Shows Taking Center Stage
Get ready for an electrifying Thanksgiving morning as the 99th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade brings an incredible lineup of thanksgiving day parade performers to Herald Square. The event promises to transform your holiday experience with a spectacular musical journey that will keep you entertained from start to finish.
The musical lineup for the 2025 parade is nothing short of extraordinary. Macy’s parade performers will include an impressive mix of chart-topping artists and crowd favorites:
- Pop sensations like Ciara and Colbie Caillat
- Legendary performers including Jewel and Busta Rhymes
- Country and rock stars such as Gavin DeGraw and Foreigner
Musical Artists Bringing the Soundtrack to Your Thanksgiving Morning
You’ll be treated to an incredible array of sounds from emerging and established artists. Rising stars like EJAE, Audrey Nuna, and REI AMI will make their daytime debut, bringing fresh energy to the thanksgiving day parade balloons route.
Broadway Productions Showcasing Holiday Magic
Beyond the music, Broadway will shine bright with performances from acclaimed shows. The Radio City Rockettes, celebrating their centennial, will deliver their iconic precision dance routines. Productions like “Buena Vista Social Club” and “Just in Time” will add theatrical magic to the macys parade balloons spectacular.
Whether you’re a music lover or a Broadway enthusiast, the 2025 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade promises an unforgettable morning of entertainment that will kick off your holiday celebrations in spectacular style.
New Balloons and Floats Debuting at the 99th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
Get ready for an exciting lineup of macy’s giant balloons that will dazzle spectators at the upcoming Thanksgiving Day Parade! This year’s parade promises to bring fresh excitement with a stunning array of new thanksgiving float designs that will capture the imagination of viewers young and old.
The 2025 parade will showcase some incredible new additions to the beloved tradition. Pop culture fans will be thrilled by the debut of several iconic taking to the sky in massive balloon form.
- Buzz Lightyear from Pixar will soar above the crowd, bringing the beloved space ranger to life in an epic new design
- Nintendo fans can cheer for the Mario balloon, celebrating the legendary video game character
- Retro gaming enthusiasts will love the PAC-MAN balloon, marking the classic game’s 45th anniversary
- DreamWorks’ Shrek’s Onion Carriage will roll down the parade route with whimsical charm
The parade continues to innovate with these macy’s thanksgiving float designs, ensuring that each year brings something unique and memorable. Whether you’re a long-time parade enthusiast or a first-time viewer, these new giant balloons are sure to create lasting memories of your Thanksgiving morning.
Everything You Need to Know About Parade Timing and Viewing Options
Get ready to mark your calendars for the most anticipated holiday parade of the year! The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade promises an exciting morning of entertainment that you won’t want to miss. Knowing the exact thanksgiving day parade time is crucial for planning your holiday viewing experience.
The parade kicks off precisely at 8:30 AM EST on Thursday, November 27, 2025. Whether you’re in New York City or watching from home, you’ll have multiple ways to catch all the excitement of this beloved holiday tradition.
Broadcast and Streaming Options
- Live broadcast on NBC
- Streaming on Peacock
- Available on YouTube TV
- Hulu + Live TV
- Sling TV
- FuboTV
Best Spots to Watch the Macy’s Parade Route
If you’re planning to watch the parade in person, the classic macy’s parade route runs through Manhattan. Prime viewing locations include:
- Central Park West (parade starting point)
- Columbus Circle
- 6th Avenue
- 34th Street near Macy’s Herald Square
Pro tip: Arrive early to secure the best viewing spots along the thanksgiving parade route. Dress warmly, bring hot drinks, and prepare for an unforgettable holiday morning filled with giant balloons, festive floats, and incredible performances!
Planning Your Perfect Parade Morning Experience
Get ready to immerse yourself in the ultimate Macy’s Parade viewing experience! Selecting the right Macy’s parade viewing spots can make all the difference in enjoying those larger-than-life character balloons and spectacular performances. Consider booking a room at the New York Hilton Midtown for an unparalleled vantage point along the parade route.
If you’re looking to elevate your parade morning, explore premium viewing packages through Your VIP Pass. These exclusive options often include perks like brunch, cocktails, professional photography, and entertainment. Pro tip: Macy’s parade tickets for VIP experiences sell out quickly, so book early to secure your spot.
For budget-conscious parade enthusiasts, don’t miss the free balloon inflation event the day before the parade. This behind-the-scenes experience allows you to see the incredible balloons up close and build anticipation for the main event. Whether you choose a premium viewing location or a public parade viewing spot, you’ll create unforgettable holiday memories that will last a lifetime.
Arrive early, dress warmly, and bring your holiday spirit! The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade promises an extraordinary morning filled with music, magic, and iconic entertainment that captures the heart of the holiday season.
