2025 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade: Key Insights and Details

The 2025 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is just around the corner, bringing excitement and joy to audiences nationwide. This iconic event marks its 99th year and will commence on Thursday, November 27, at 8:30 a.m. This year’s parade features a captivating lineup of balloons, floats, performers, and special appearances.

Parade Highlights

The parade will showcase:

• 34 large balloons
• 28 floats
• 26 performers
• 33 clown crews
• The traditional arrival of Santa Claus

Viewing the Parade

Where to Watch

The event will broadcast live from 8:30 a.m. to noon on NBC and Telemundo. It will also be available for streaming on Peacock.

Location and Route

The parade kicks off at 77th Street and Central Park West, proceeding along a 2.5-mile route that includes Columbus Circle, Central Park South, and 6th Avenue. It will conclude at 7th Avenue in front of Macy’s Herald Square.

Best Time to Arrive

To secure a prime viewing spot, spectators should arrive around 6 a.m. The New York Police Department will manage public viewing areas along the route.

Viewing Restrictions

There are designated areas where public viewing is limited. Key restricted zones include:

• Central Park West and West 77th Street
• Between 60th and 59th Streets on Central Park West
• From Columbus Circle to 6th Avenue on Central Park South
• 6th Avenue between West 38th and 34th Streets
• West 34th Street between 6th and 7th Avenues

Security Guidelines

Attendees should be aware that large bags, umbrellas, and strollers are prohibited in public viewing areas. Security checks may be conducted at the entrance.

New Balloon Arrivals

Exciting new character balloons making their debut include:

• Buzz Lightyear
• Mario
• PAC-MAN
• Frost Pips from Santaverse
• Shrek’s Onion Carriage
• Happy Hippo Triple Stack

Returning favorites are Beagle Scout Snoopy, Bluey, and Pikachu & Eevee.

Pre-Parade Balloon Inflation

On Thanksgiving Eve, visitors can witness the inflation of the balloons. This event is held from noon on November 26 at West 72nd Street and Columbus Avenue, with balloons being inflated between 1 and 6 p.m.

Featured Performers

This year’s parade will include performances from renowned musical artists such as:

• Ciara
• Foreigner
• Busta Rhymes
• Kool & the Gang
• Gavin DeGraw
• Russell Dickerson
• Lil Jon

Additionally, the Radio City Rockettes will celebrate their 100th anniversary, alongside performances from Broadway shows and various cultural groups.

Marching Bands

Participating marching bands hail from various states, including:

• Pennsylvania
• New Hampshire
• Arizona
• California
• Texas
• Mississippi
• South Carolina

The Macy’s Great American Marching Band and the NYPD Marching Band will also perform.

As Thanksgiving approaches, the 2025 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade promises an unforgettable experience for attendees and viewers alike.