2025 Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade: Schedule, Route, and Street Closures
The 2025 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is set to return for its 99th edition, promising to delight millions on November 27, starting at 8:30 a.m. ET. Spanning 2.5 miles, the parade will make its way through the heart of New York City, concluding at Macy’s Herald Square.
Thanksgiving Day Parade Schedule
This year’s parade will feature an exciting schedule:
- 6:00 a.m. – Spectators are encouraged to arrive early, especially along Central Park West.
- 8:30 a.m. – The parade and its telecast commence, hosted by celebrity Alison Brie.
- 12:00 p.m. – The parade broadcast ends after a three-and-a-half hour spectacle.
Featured Performers
The parade will showcase a lineup of exceptional talent. This year’s performers include:
- Ciara
- Lil Jon
- Busta Rhymes
- Kool & the Gang
- Mickey Guyton
- Teyana Taylor
- A K-Pop collaboration featuring HUNTR/X (Audrey Nuna, EJAE, and REI AMI)
New balloons will debut in the parade, featuring:
- Buzz Lightyear
- Pac-Man
- Mario
- A Shrek Onion Carriage from DreamWorks Animation
How to Experience the Parade in Person
To witness the excitement live, consider the following:
- Arrive by 6 a.m. to secure a prime viewing spot.
- Focus on public viewing areas along 6th Avenue and Central Park West.
- Avoid restricted zones at the start, finish, and major broadcast areas.
Best Viewing Locations
Macy’s recommends great locations for spectators:
- West 59th to West 38th Streets along 6th Avenue
- West side of Central Park, between West 75th and West 61st Streets, close to the starting point
Street Closures for the Parade
Several streets will close for the event. Here are the key closures:
- Formation: Columbus Avenue between 72nd Street and 83rd Street
- Route: Central Park West to Broadway and ending at Macy’s Herald Square
- Dispersal Areas: 33rd Street between 5th Avenue and 10th Avenue; 34th Street between 6th Avenue and 7th Avenue
More closures will also happen the day before Thanksgiving for setup purposes. It is advisable to check local advisories for any changes.
With its famed performances, dazzling floats, and iconic balloons, the 2025 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is poised to kick off the holiday season in style.
