Many traditions make Thanksgiving Day special and the holiday is incomplete without Macy's Parade. The retailer has been a huge part of the holiday for the past 98 years and has set a tradition that Americans are fond of.
While most details of this parade stay the same every year, its balloons have evolved over the years with several characters making their debut every year.
The parade includes giant balloons of different characters, marching bands, and a group of singers. While the parade is as colorful as possible, it marks the beginning of Thanksgiving in many households.
The parade will begin at 8:30 a.m. ET. However, those who miss the parade can watch its re-broadcast at 2:00 p.m. ET.
Like every year, the parade is supposed to last 3.5 hours. The initial broadcast will end at noon, while the one at noon will end by 5:30 p.m.
The route of Macy's Parade is pre-decided and will cover a 2.5-mile path. It commences at West 77th Street and Central Park West and will end at Macy's Flagship store in Herald Square.
Several spots allow public viewing such as Central Park West between 60th and 75th Street and Sixth Avenue between 38th and 59th Streets.
Which new balloons have been added to Macy's Parade?
The gigantic balloons of different characters are the highlight of Macy's Parade. Minnie Mouse, a part of the Disney Fab Five, is joining the parade as a huge balloon for the first time since her debut in 1928.
On the other hand, the Mickey Mouse balloon debuted in the parade in 1934. His companions Pluto, Donald Duck, and Goofy have also made appearances in the parade.
Besides Minnie, Macy's Parade will also be a treat for anime fans as it is bringing the balloon of Goku of Dragon Ball. Moreover, new Spider-Man, Dora the Explorer, Boots, and Elf on the Shelf balloons will be a part of the parade.
Snoopy, Bluey, SpongeBob SquarePants, and Minions will make their return to the parade.
Those who are willing to watch the parade while sitting at home can watch it on NBC and Peacock. The parade will be broadcast across the nation and people can watch it for free with a good HD antenna.
Besides this, several streaming platforms such as Peacock, Disney+, Hulu with Live TV, YouTube TV, Sling TV, and more will also stream the parade.