Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade 2025 Balloon Inflation Celebrated in NYC
The annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is a cherished tradition that will celebrate its 99th year in 2025. This year, the festivities kicked off with the Balloon Inflation celebration on Manhattan’s Upper West Side, where iconic balloons were brought to life. The event took place on Wednesday, November 26, ahead of the main parade scheduled for Thursday.
Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade Balloon Inflation 2025
During the Balloon Inflation, visitors had the chance to see new characters making their debut, including the “KPop Demon Hunters” balloon and float. According to Macy’s spokesperson Orlando Veras, each balloon takes approximately 90 minutes to inflate with helium. Once completed, some balloons could stand as tall as five stories.
Security Measures for the Parade
For the safety of participants and spectators, thousands of uniformed officers from the New York Police Department (NYPD) were deployed along the parade route. Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch assured the public that there were no specific threats to the parade, but emphasized the importance of vigilance. New York City Mayor Eric Adams echoed this sentiment, urging everyone to “see something, say something, do something.”
Details About the Inflation Event
- The inflation zone was located outside the American Museum of Natural History.
- Viewing hours were from noon to 6 p.m. on November 26.
- Entry for spectators was through a security checkpoint on West 72nd Street and Columbus Avenue.
The inflation celebration was free and attracted numerous spectators interested in witnessing the preparation process firsthand. Roads around the parade route experienced various closures, with some starting as early as 7 a.m. on Wednesday, November 26.
Featured Balloons and Floats
This year’s parade will showcase 34 remarkable balloons, including five new characters:
- Buzz Lightyear from “Toy Story”
- Derpy Tiger from “KPop Demon Hunters”
- Mario from Nintendo
- PAC-MAN from Bandai Namco
- Shrek’s Onion Carriage
Other entertainment highlights include seven new floats and a talented lineup of performers, including Broadway star Cynthia Erivo. The event promises a diverse array of music and performances, featuring the “KPop Demon Hunters” who will perform their hit song “Golden.”
Weather and Safety Considerations
Weather forecasts predict colder temperatures and wind conditions that could potentially influence balloon flight. Past events, such as in 1971, have seen balloons grounded due to strong winds, but organizers remain optimistic for this year’s parade.
The 2025 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is set to be a grand spectacle, celebrating years of tradition and community spirit in New York City.
